Decades after he made his debut in the ‘50s, the late rocker Elvis Presley remains to be one of the most influential musicians to this day. His music is still enjoyed by many and artifacts related to him still fetch jaw-dropping prices.
In fact, one of his most recognizable guitars just recently broke records when it was sold at an auction.
New Record Set
According to TMZ, Presley’s 1942 Martin D-18 guitar was bought by an anonymous collector for $1.32 million. It now holds the record for being the most expensive Elvis memorabilia ever sold by the Gotta Have Rock and Roll auction house.
So, why did this particular instrument fetch such a high bid? Well, it all came down to it being used by the King of Rock and Roll during the most historically significant period in his music career.
Owned by the singer from 1954 to 1956, the Martin guitar is also known as the ‘Sun Sessions guitar’ as it was used by Presley to record music at the iconic Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee. One of the classic songs it was used on is ‘Blue Moon of Kentucky’, a Blue Grass Boys original covered by the King.
Distinct Guitar
While the guitar didn’t reach the original $2 million to $3 million estimate set by the auction house, it doesn’t diminish its significance in music history.
The item reportedly came with lots of documentation to authenticate it. This includes a copy of the original receipt that was given to Presley when he first got the Martin guitar.
One distinct feature that sets Presley’s guitar apart is the personalized lettering the musician himself attached to it. The instrument spells the word ‘Elvis’ (the letter ‘S’ has fallen off though) in adhesive metal lettering on the bottom of its body.
Ultimate Elvis Memorabilia
Still, the record for the most expensive Elvis memorabilia ever sold remains in the hands of the King’s diamond-encrusted Omega wristwatch, which was sold for $1.8 million.
The watch bore the inscription, ‘To Elvis, 75 Million Records, RCA Victor, 12-25- 60’ and marked Presley’s accomplishment as a musician. The jewelry was purchased by his record label from Tiffany & Co.
While the watch reportedly meant a lot to the musician, he ended up giving it away to a fan after they expressed admiration for it. The two of them traded watches when Presley complimented the fan’s own Hamilton wristwatch.
