Rory Gallagher’s legendary guitar ‘returning home’ to Ireland after fetching huge price at auction

The iconic piece of music memorabilia will go on display to the public in Dublin.

The legendary instrument was purchased by Cork music promoter and founder of entertainment company Live Nation, Denis Desmond, who successfully bid £700,000 (€841,000) for the item at Bonhams auctioneers in London on Thursday.

At Bonhams auction house, with a legendary guitar. pic.twitter.com/ki6xRjS8KJ

— Neil McCormick (@neil_mccormick) October 15, 2024

The Donegal-born musician bought the guitar as a teenager from Crowley’s music store in Cork in 1963. Possessing very little money at the time, Gallagher bought it for £100 on credit.

Considered by many to be the greatest guitarist of all time, Gallagher tragically died at the age of 47 after suffering from medical complications just months after having a liver transplant in 1995.

Since then, the guitar and Gallagher’s other musical equipment has been stored in London.

Shortly after Mr Desmond purchased the highly sought after piece of music memorabilia, plans to donate it to the State were revealed.

Arts Minister Catherine Martin confirmed on Friday that the guitar will be housed at the National Museum of Ireland, where fans from across the world will be able to see it in public exhibitions.

The 1961 Fender Stratocaster was Gallagher’s most-played instrument and its wear and worn finish made it one of the most recognisable guitars in rock history.

Last week, Fontaines D.C. guitarist Carlos O’Connell had the distinct honour of holding the guitar during an interview ahead of the sale, and described Gallagher's importance to other musicians.

"It means so much to the world of music. It's about expression and he was one of the more expressive guitar players ever. What this guitar must have meant to him personally is unimaginable."

The Tanaiste Micheál Martin also reacted to the news, adding: "To see Rory’s Fender Stratocaster on display by the National Museum, for fans and the public to enjoy, will be a fitting recognition for an Irish rock legend."

Delighted that Rory Gallagher’s guitar is coming back to Ireland.

To see Rory’s Fender Stratocaster on display by the National Museum, for fans and the public to enjoy, will be a fitting recognition for an Irish rock legend.

— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) October 17, 2024

With the 30th anniversary of Gallagher’s passing arriving next year, his family decided to sell the items after keeping them in storage for almost three decades. 

Dónal Gallagher, Rory’s brother and manager, said: "We have been overwhelmed by the response to this auction and the outpouring of love and respect shown towards Rory and his incredible legacy…

"It has been nearly 30 years since my brother’s passing, and though it was a difficult decision to part with this collection, I am grateful that these treasured instruments can now tour the globe as Rory did, spreading his music and memory.

"We are also delighted that Rory’s 1961 Strat will be returning to Ireland, where it can be shared with his fans for generations to come."