Bonhams has seen many a rock star guitar pass through its doors over the years. With instruments owned by the likes of Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie and Jerry Garcia (to name but a few!) having gone up for sale in recent times, you never know what historic guitars might be under the hammer next.
Today, Bonhams has announced the Peter Green Collection. Running June 16-28, this massive online auction comprises 150 guitars, as well as amps, pedals and other gear.
Offered for the first time ever, this historic collection also contains handwritten lyrics and sketches by the late, great blues-rock legend – notably, the lyrics for Fleetwood Mac’s “Man of the World.”
A statement from the Peter Green Estate reads: “Peter’s contribution to the blues and rock music genres as a brilliant musician, guitarist, songwriter and vocalist is well established worldwide. Peter was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998. His guitar playing was original and unique.
“B.B. King said Peter had the sweetest tone he'd ever heard: ‘He was the only one that gave me the cold sweats.’ We hope that Peter’s guitars and other items included in the auction will be of great interest to his fans and find good homes.”
Highlights from the Peter Green Collection include the following instruments:
- 1968 Gretsch White Falcon 6137 (Estimate: £6,000-8,000)
- 1999 Fender Stratocaster USA Custom Shop Relic in “Sea Foam Green” finish (Estimate: £5,000-6,000)
- Squier Strat Special Edition 20th Anniversary Standard Series in “blue” finish, as seen in the Canvey Island Sessions (Estimate: £2,000-3,000)
- 1995 Gibson Howard Roberts Fusion III – Peter Green's “comeback guitar” (Estimate: £4,000-5,000)
- 1931 National Duolian Style-O (Estimate: £3,000-5,000)
- 1980s G&L Strat SC3 in "yellow" finish (Estimate: £1,500-2,000)
“Peter Green was one of the greatest guitarists,” said Katherine Schofield, Director of Bonhams Popular Culture Department. “Even when out of the limelight, the tributes paid to his playing throughout his lifetime continued to highlight his reputation and the esteem his fellow artists held him in.
“This sale is a celebration of his love for the guitar, with a number of different makes and models, for enthusiasts and career musicians.
"With estimates starting at the accessible price point of £150, this is a unique opportunity to own a piece of Peter Green’s legacy.”
Visit Bonhams for more information.
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