#USA #New York City #Julien's Auctions #KISS #Ace Frehley

A Historic Auction of Rock and Roll Memorabilia

Julien's Auctions, renowned as the world's premier auction house for celebrity memorabilia, is thrilled to announce an extraordinary auction event titled "Music Icons". This highly anticipated event will take place at the Hard Rock Cafe in New York City on May 29 and 30, showcasing over 650 rare and unique items celebrating the legacy of rock and roll. This year, the auction honors the enduring influence of heavy metal and commemorates the 50th anniversary of KISS's debut in London.

Among the highlights of this auction is the legendary Gibson Les Paul Ace #1 1975, famously used by Ace Frehley of KISS, with estimates ranging between $400,000 and $600,000. Other standout items include a 1969 Guild F-412 owned by Stevie Ray Vaughan, which was used during his iconic MTV Unplugged performance, estimated at $300,000 to $500,000. The auction will also feature Johnny Cash's 1954 Martin Acoustic guitar, used during his early performances at the Grand Ole Opry, with an estimate of $100,000 to $200,000.

One of the most sought-after pieces in the collection is the ESP Custom 'Ouija' guitar, played and signed by Kirk Hammett of Metallica and expected to fetch between $250,000 and $350,000. Additionally, collectors will have the opportunity to bid on Eddie Van Halen's Charvel Art Series guitar, which is estimated at $50,000 to $70,000 and was used during his last performance with Sammy Hagar.

The auction not only features musical instruments but also includes various other memorabilia that offers a glimpse into the personal lives of rock icons. Highlights include a signed Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album by The Beatles, with an estimate of $20,000 to $40,000, and a collection of unique costumes, including jackets worn during iconic tours and stage performances.

“Interest in music memorabilia is at an all-time high, fueled by collectors who appreciate both the cultural significance of these instruments and the legacies of the artists who created them,” said Martin Nolan, co-founder and executive director of Julien's Auctions. “Our Music Icons auction showcases legendary guitars from Ace Frehley, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Kirk Hammett, illustrating our commitment to offering historical pieces while shaping the global conversation about music collecting.”

Items from the collection have already been presented in previous exhibitions in London and Tokyo, and now they make their way to the historic Hard Rock Cafe, where they will be publicly displayed starting May 13. The auction will go live on two days, inviting bidders both in person and online. Enthusiasts can register ahead of time via the Julien's Auctions website or in person on auction day.

Beyond the excitement of bidding, it’s the stories behind these items that resonate with fans. Every piece carries a history—a connection to the artists that shaped the music industry. From signature performances to iconic moments in rock history, each item is a testament to the indelible impact of music on culture.

To participate, interested parties can place bids online, via phone, or in person at the auction. Julien’s Auctions also accepts cryptocurrency payments, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, reflecting its innovative approach to modern commerce.

As we approach May 29 and 30, anticipation builds for an event that not only honors musical talent but also connects fans to the stories of their favorite rock legends. Whether you’re a serious collector or simply a lover of music history, this auction promises to be an unforgettable experience in the heart of New York City.

For more details on the auction items and how to bid, visit Julien's Auctions.

Location: Hard Rock Cafe Times Square, New York, NY 10036
Auction Dates: May 29 & 30, 2026