Courtesy Christie’s Images
Guitar icon Johnny Marr is parting with a curated selection of his most prized instruments. This September 17, Christie’s in London will host a landmark auction, offering fans and collectors alike the chance to own the very tools that shaped four decades of influential British indie rock.
Entitled Marr’s Guitars: The Johnny Marr Collection—drawing inspiration from his acclaimed 2023 book—the sale encompasses approximately 80 guitars, alongside an assortment of amplifiers and essential touring gear. The collection serves as a sonic timeline of Marr’s storied career, spanning his influential tenure with The Smiths to his later creative collaborations and prolific solo projects.
In a charitable move, a portion of the proceeds will support the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association and the National Autistic Society. Before the London event, a preview exhibition will be held in New York from June 25 to July 1. Full details are available via Christie’s official website.
Among the standout pieces is the 1982 Rickenbacker 330 Jetglo, a guitar synonymous with early Smiths classics like “This Charming Man.” With an estimated value reaching £80,000, the instrument carries further historical weight, having been loaned to Noel Gallagher for Oasis’ Definitely Maybe sessions and appearing on the cover of the “Supersonic” single.
Collectors will also note the 1960 Cherry Red Gibson ES-355. This instrument was a staple of Marr’s mid-80s sound, gifted to him by Seymour Stein of Sire Records, and proved pivotal during the writing of “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now.” Auction estimates for this piece range up to £150,000.
Looking ahead, several of these instruments appear on Marr’s upcoming solo album, The Age of Everything, slated for an October 2 release. He will celebrate the launch with an extensive U.K. and European tour, culminating in a marquee performance at London’s OVO Arena Wembley on October 24.
Reflecting on the collection, Marr shared, “I’ve cherished these guitars since my first one at age five. Each acquisition has been a catalyst for my evolution as a musician, unlocking new sounds and techniques. Cataloging these for my book was a deeply cathartic experience, but I feel it’s time for these instruments to find new homes rather than remaining in storage. It is my hope they bring as much inspiration and joy to their new owners as they have to me.”
Amelia Walker of Christie’s noted, “Johnny Marr redefined the guitar landscape at 18 when he co-founded The Smiths. His innovative, melodic approach left an indelible mark on music history. We are honored to facilitate the next chapter for these legendary instruments, ensuring they continue to inspire new music for years to come.”
Following his transformative work with The Smiths, Marr’s creative journey has seen him contribute to projects with The Pretenders, Electronic, Modest Mouse, and The Cribs. In recent years, his solo career has reached new heights through high-profile collaborations with artists ranging from Billie Eilish to Gorillaz.
