A 1964 12-string Framus Hootenanny guitar played by John Lennon and George Harrison during the making of “Help!” and “Rubber Soul” in 1965, was recently sold at auction for over $2.8 million. This made it the most expensive item belonging to a former Beatles member and one of the priciest guitars of all time. The guitar was previously thought to be missing for 50 years but reappeared and was sold at New York’s Hard Rock Cafe. It was matched to photos from recording sessions and handwritten notes by producer George Martin, showcasing its authenticity. The German-made guitar played a significant role in various Beatles songs, including “You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away” and “Norwegian Wood,” contributing to the band’s transition towards folk-rock and more story-telling lyrics.
The guitar was later gifted to Gordon Waller of the duo Peter & Gordon, who had a hit with “A World Without Love,” written by Paul McCartney. After passing through various hands, it ended up stashed away in an attic for decades until its rediscovery. Beatles gear expert Andy Babiuk confirmed its authenticity through original markings, including the tortoise shell pickguard. He emphasized the importance of the guitar as one of the few remaining Beatle guitars not accounted for, highlighting its significance in iconic Beatles songs. Babiuk also mentioned the guitar’s unique sound, which immediately identifies it as the instrument heard on classic Beatles tracks.
Julien’s Auctions, the auctioneer for the guitar, described the Framus Hootenanny as a direct link to the sound of the Beatles in 1965. Strumming the guitar effortlessly produces recognizable Beatles tunes, providing a nostalgic audio experience for fans. The guitar’s original case, complete with a shop tag, has also been preserved, adding to its authenticity and historical significance. The sale of the guitar marked a significant moment in music history, as it represented a rare and valuable piece of Beatles memorabilia that had been missing for decades.
The sale of the Framus Hootenanny guitar adds to the growing list of valuable music memorabilia auctioned by Julien’s. This auction house continues to showcase items from notable music icons, preserving and celebrating the history of popular music. The high demand and significant price tag for items such as John Lennon’s guitar highlight the enduring influence and appeal of the Beatles and their impact on music history. The auction of such iconic items provides fans and collectors with an opportunity to own a piece of music history and contribute to the preservation of cultural artifacts related to legendary musicians.
