Jeff Beck guitar collection to go under the hammer in January

A collection of guitars and musical equipment once owned by legendary rock guitarist Jeff Beck will be auctioned in London this January, according to Christie's auction house. The collection, which includes 130 guitars, amplifiers, and other musical tools used throughout Beck's illustrious career, is expected to fetch substantial amounts, with some items estimated to sell for hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Among the highlights is Beck's 1954 "Oxblood" Gibson Les Paul, famously featured on the cover of his iconic 1975 album *Blow By Blow*. This particular guitar is projected to sell for up to £500,000 ($634,000).

Beck, who gained fame with the 1960s supergroup The Yardbirds and later enjoyed a successful solo career, passed away in January of last year at the age of 78. His widow, Sandra Beck, expressed that parting with the instruments was a significant emotional challenge but emphasized the importance of sharing them with new musicians. "These guitars were his great love, and after almost two years since his passing, it's time to let them go as Jeff would have wanted," she stated. "I hope future guitarists who acquire these items can connect with the genius who played them."

The collection also features a 1958 Gibson Les Paul known as the original "Yardburst," valued at up to £60,000, which Beck purchased in 1966 while still a member of The Yardbirds. Additionally, a custom Fender Telecaster and Gibson hybrid crafted by renowned guitar designer Seymour Duncan for Beck in 1973 is estimated to reach £150,000.

Selected pieces from the collection will be on public display in Los Angeles from December 4-6, and the full collection will be showcased at Christie's London headquarters for a week leading up to the auction on January 22.

Amelia Walker from Christie's remarked on the honor of managing the sale of instruments belonging to a "rock pioneer whose influence on his peers was unparalleled." She noted that Beck's guitars had "shared his emotion and voice" with audiences and that the auction would serve as a tribute to his lasting legacy.