Rory Gallagher's legendary guitar sells for more than €1million at auction

The iconic Fender Stratocaster will be donated to the National Museum of Ireland by its purchaser

Rory Gallagher’s legendary Fender Stratocaster has sold for more than €1million – and will be donated to the National Museum of Ireland.

The sale took place during an auction of Gallagher’s guitar collection at Bonham’s auction house in London.

The hammer went down at £700,000 (€841,000) but with a premium included, the final price comes to £889,400 (€1.06million).

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The Minister for Culture and Arts, Catherine Martin, said the guitar will be donated to the National Museum of Ireland by its purchaser.

Ms Martin added that her Department had been working closely with NMI.

The guitar has been purchased by Live Nation Gaiety Ltd. Minister Martin said: "I am absolutely delighted that Rory’s guitar is coming home to Ireland. My Department has been working closely with the National Museum to bring this about.

"The successful acquisition, in association with the NMI, is hugely welcome. Since the sale of the Rory Gallagher collection was announced, I have shared in the enthusiasm of the nation, and music fans in particular, that Rory’s iconic guitar would be secured as an inspirational addition to our national heritage collection and a testimonial to his many achievements.

"Rory Gallagher was instrumental in establishing Ireland on a global stage as a centre for rock music. Rory achieved success around the world with his authentic blues based style and was beloved by fans for his many albums and legendary live performances."

The guitar was part of a sale of almost 100 lots in the Rory Gallagher Collection.

While the estimate of £750,000-£1m on the Stratocaster had hogged the headlines, an eclectic mix of bidders with various budgets had packed out the New Bond Street auction house, with many more taking part online.

Rory was born in Co Donegal. His family moved to Derry before settling in Cork when he was eight. He died in London in 1995 at the age of 47.

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