When Indianapolis Colts NFL team owner Jim Irsay purchased Jimi Hendrix's ultra-rare 1964 Fender Jazzmaster guitar, a notable collector got a piece of music history.
This guitar was used by Hendrix early in his career, including as a sideman for Little Richard in the mid-1960s. Unique features of this guitar, such as the special "violin" style vibrato and offset body he design, are coveted by collectors and musicians alike.
A noted collector of musical memorabilia, Irsay reportedly paid a staggering $3.8 million for a guitar sold through auction house Christie's. The sale price at auction is a new record for a Fender guitar. In a post-sale statement, Irsay expressed his excitement at the opportunity to own such an iconic piece of music history. “Jimi Hendrix was one of the most important and influential musicians of all time, and this guitar played a key role in his early career. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to share."
The guitar is in very good condition considering the age and damage from Hendrix playing. Fans of Hendrix's music will instantly recognize it due to the instrument's unique features, such as the rosewood fretboard and custom finish.
The guitar sale has generated a lot of interest from music fans and collectors, and many speculate that it could spark a new wave of interest in vintage Fender instruments. For fans of Hendrix's music, this sale is a unique opportunity to own a piece of the legendary musician's legacy.
Now that the sale is complete, the guitar will join his extensive Irsay collection of musical memorabilia. The guitar's new owner has yet to announce any plans for public exhibitions or performances, but fans are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to see the legendary instrument up close.
