#USA #New York City #Julien's Auctions #KISS #Rock Memorabilia

A Celebration of Rock History: Julien's Auctions Music Icons Event

Julien's Auctions, renowned for its status in the celebrity auction realm, is on the brink of hosting an extraordinary event— a two-day auction titled "Music Icons" scheduled for May 29–30, 2026, at the iconic Hard Rock Cafe in New York City. This highly anticipated auction offers music enthusiasts and collectors the chance to acquire over 650 rare and unique music artifacts, all meticulously curated for their cultural significance and historical value.

The event makes a notable mark as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of KISS's legendary debut in London, solidifying the event's focus on heavy metal's enduring legacy. To heighten the anticipation, Julien's Auctions is also rolling out a touring exhibition showcasing select highlights from the auction, which has already made stops in London and Tokyo before arriving at Hard Rock Cafe New York starting May 13. As the event draws closer, the excitement surrounding it continues to build, with bidding now open at juliensauctions.com for a total collection of over 800 items.

Memorable Highlights on Offer

Among the auction’s standout pieces is the famed 1975 Gibson Les Paul Ace #1 belonging to Ace Frehley of KISS, estimated to fetch between $400,000 and $600,000. This guitar is not just a tool of music but a significant artifact in rock history, which Frehley used extensively throughout his illustrious career. Other spotlight items include:

• - The 1969 Guild F-412 twelve-string acoustic guitar played by Stevie Ray Vaughan during his memorable MTV Unplugged performance, with an estimated value of $300,000 to $500,000.
• - Johnny Cash's 1954 Martin D-18, which he played at his Grand Ole Opry debut in 1956, is projected to sell for between $100,000 and $200,000.
• - Kirk Hammett's first Ouija ESP Custom electric guitar, signed and played on stage, with an expected value of $250,000 to $350,000.
• - A signed record sleeve of "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" by The Beatles, estimated to bring in $20,000 to $40,000.

In addition to these guitars, various other musical items including stage-worn costumes and personal memorabilia will also be part of the auction, catering to diverse collector interests.

The Growing Interest in Music Memorabilia

Martin Nolan, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Julien's Auctions, expressed the vibrant interest in music collectibles, stating that collectors increasingly appreciate the cultural significance behind these instruments and the legends who played them. This year’s auction promises to draw attention, not only for its high-value items but also for promoting a vibrant dialogue about the importance of music memorabilia in society.

"Interest in music memorabilia is reaching unprecedented levels, fueled by collectors who appreciate both the cultural significance of these instruments and the legacy of the artists behind them,” said Nolan. "Our annual Music Icons auction highlights extraordinary guitars from star musicians, demonstrating Julien's dedication to presenting museum-quality pieces while continuing to shape the way people think about music collecting."

How to Participate

For those interested in participating, registration to bid is essential. Bids can be placed online, by phone, in-person, or via absentee bid forms, ensuring accessible options for bidders from anywhere. Julien's Auctions even accommodates various payment methods, including cryptocurrency options.

This event heralds a special occasion for both die-hard fans and seasoned collectors. As the lights dim and the excitement builds, attendees will not only engage with iconic pieces of history but will relive memories tied to the artists and their music. For further insights and details, visit the Julien's Auctions website.

Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable two days of music history in New York City!