12 Iconic Guitars Owned by Legendary Musicians That Command High Prices

Iconic guitars have played a major role in shaping music history, often becoming as legendary as the musicians who wielded them. From blues to rock, these instruments were key to the creation of timeless songs and unforgettable performances. Over time, many of these guitars have commanded astonishing prices at auctions, driven by their unique history, craftsmanship, and association with music legends. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most famous guitars owned by legendary musicians, and why they’ve become such prized possessions for collectors and music fans alike.

Eric Clapton’s ‘Blackie’ Stratocaster

Eric Clapton’s “Blackie” Stratocaster is one of the most iconic guitars in music history, assembled by the musician himself from three different guitars in the early 1970s. He used this custom-built guitar extensively between 1973 and 1985, crafting some of his most renowned music. The guitar’s deep connection to his career, and the fact that it was a personal favorite, made it a highly coveted piece when it went to auction in 2004. Selling for $959,500 at Christie’s, it set a record for a guitar at the time. “Blackie” is associated with songs such as “Cocaine” and “Layla,” adding to its allure and monetary value. Clapton’s preference for this guitar also inspired many guitarists to adopt the Fender Stratocaster, cementing its place in rock history.

Jimi Hendrix’s 1968 Fender Stratocaster

Jimi Hendrix’s white 1968 Fender Stratocaster is legendary for being the guitar he played during his historic performance at Woodstock in 1969. The image of him playing “The Star-Spangled Banner” on this guitar is iconic and etched into music history. This Stratocaster was auctioned for nearly $2 million in 1990, making it one of the most expensive guitars ever sold at the time. The instrument’s significance goes beyond its use at Woodstock; it was a symbol of Hendrix’s unique sound and influence in shaping modern rock music. Its value soared not just due to its role in his performances, but also because of his untimely death, which immortalized his instruments. This guitar’s distinct connection to a legendary moment in music continues to make it a collector’s dream.

Kurt Cobain’s 1959 Martin D-18E

Kurt Cobain’s 1959 Martin D-18E acoustic guitar is famed for being the instrument he used during Nirvana’s legendary MTV Unplugged performance in 1993. The guitar’s significance lies in both its historical importance and its association with one of the most iconic unplugged sets in rock history. In 2020, this guitar was sold at auction for a staggering $6 million, setting the record for the most expensive guitar ever sold. Cobain’s haunting performance on this guitar, especially during songs like “Where Did You Sleep Last Night,” elevated its emotional value. Its role in Nirvana’s rise to fame has made it an irreplaceable part of rock history, especially for fans of the grunge movement.

David Gilmour’s ‘Black Strat’

David Gilmour’s famous “Black Strat” is one of the most recognizable guitars in rock history, used extensively throughout Pink Floyd’s career. He purchased the black Fender Stratocaster in 1970 and used it to record classic albums like The Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here, and The Wall. It was sold at auction in 2019 for an incredible $3.9 million, making it one of the most expensive guitars ever sold. The “Black Strat” is renowned not just for its role in Pink Floyd’s legendary sound, but also for its association with some of the most iconic solos in rock history, including “Comfortably Numb.” Gilmour’s attachment to this guitar made it a significant piece of music history, as it shaped Pink Floyd’s sound for over four decades.

Jimmy Page’s 1959 Gibson Les Paul

Jimmy Page’s 1959 Gibson Les Paul, also known as “Number One,” was his primary guitar during Led Zeppelin’s golden years. Purchased in 1969, this guitar became integral to his sound, contributing to classics like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Whole Lotta Love.” Known for its warm, deep tones, the Les Paul helped define the sound of rock in the 1970s. Although not auctioned, Page’s guitar is estimated to be worth millions due to its history and significance in rock music. The guitar’s value is continuously associated with its role in shaping Led Zeppelin’s legendary status.

Bob Dylan’s 1965 Newport Fender Stratocaster

Bob Dylan’s Fender Stratocaster used during his 1965 Newport Folk Festival performance is one of the most historically significant guitars in music history. When he went electric at this festival, it marked a major turning point in his career and in the folk music genre as a whole. It was auctioned in 2013 for $965,000, making it the most expensive Fender guitar ever sold. Dylan’s decision to plug in at the Newport Festival was controversial at the time but solidified his transformation from folk hero to rock icon. The guitar symbolizes his bold move to challenge musical boundaries and remains a key piece of music history.

Prince’s ‘Cloud’ Guitar

Prince’s custom-built “Cloud” guitar, with its unique shape and striking white design, became synonymous with his flamboyant style and groundbreaking music. The guitar made its debut in the 1984 film Purple Rain, where it became an essential part of his image. In 2020, one of the original “Cloud” guitars was sold for $563,500 at auction. The guitar’s distinctive sound and appearance made it an iconic piece in his live performances. Today, this guitar is a symbol of Prince’s unparalleled creativity and his lasting legacy in the music world.

George Harrison’s 1963 Maton Mastersound

George Harrison’s 1963 Maton Mastersound became famous for its use during the Beatles’ final Cavern Club performance in 1963. The guitar was originally lent to him while his Gretsch Country Gentleman was being repaired. Despite its temporary status, the Maton became a beloved instrument for him. In 2018, the guitar was auctioned for $485,000. Its association with his early career and the Beatles’ meteoric rise added to its historic value. The guitar represents a significant era in music history and continues to be cherished by collectors.

Paul McCartney’s Höfner Violin Bass

Paul McCartney’s Höfner Violin Bass is an unmistakable symbol of the Beatles’ early years. He bought this bass in 1961, and it became his primary instrument throughout the band’s rise to fame. Although it hasn’t been sold at auction, the value of this bass is estimated in the millions due to its historical significance. His use of the Höfner helped shape the Beatles’ sound, and its iconic look is instantly recognizable to fans around the world. The bass continues to be a key piece of Beatles memorabilia, and McCartney still plays Höfner basses to this day.

John Lennon’s 1962 Gibson J-160E

John Lennon’s 1962 Gibson J-160E acoustic-electric guitar is famed for its role in the Beatles’ early recordings, including hits like “She Loves You” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” The guitar was lost during a concert in 1963 but resurfaced in 2015, when it was auctioned for $2.41 million. Its long-lost status and connection to Lennon’s early career significantly boosted its value. The guitar represents a pivotal moment in the Beatles’ transition from local stars to international icons. The auction highlighted the immense demand for instruments linked to Lennon, one of the most influential musicians of all time.

Stevie Ray Vaughan’s 1963 Fender Stratocaster ‘Number One’

Stevie Ray Vaughan’s 1963 Fender Stratocaster, affectionately called “Number One,” was his most cherished guitar and one of the defining instruments of his blues-rock career. He used this guitar extensively during his rise to fame, and it was known for its distinctive tone that contributed to his signature sound. The Stratocaster had a worn-out appearance from years of heavy use, but that only added to its legend. In 2004, it was estimated to be worth millions, although it has not been sold at auction. Vaughan’s attachment to this guitar made it a significant piece of blues and rock history. “Number One” was instrumental in creating classics such as “Pride and Joy” and “Texas Flood,” solidifying its place in the guitar pantheon.

B.B. King’s ‘Lucille’ Gibson ES-355

B.B. King’s iconic black Gibson ES-355, known as “Lucille,” is perhaps one of the most recognizable guitars in blues history. He was inseparable from “Lucille,” and its warm, rich tones helped define his legendary blues sound. This guitar became a symbol of his career, and several versions of it were custom-made for him over the years. While the original “Lucille” has not been sold, similar models and replicas have fetched significant amounts at auctions, with values reaching upwards of $100,000. King’s deep connection with it made it a part of blues lore, and its influence continues to be felt in the world of music.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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