The unique 1913 Gibson acoustic guitar, which Eric Clapton and George Harrison used to write some of their most iconic songs, is going up for auction this week.
The quirky Style-0 archtop, fondly nicknamed “Pattie”, has been listed by Heritage Auctions, and is currently awaiting an opening bid of $150,000.
Not much is known about the guitar’s earliest years, but the fate of the Gibson Style-0 Archtop, which bears the serial number #14106, changed dramatically when the two guitarists got their hands on it in the late ‘60s.
It’s lovingly been dubbed “Pattie” after Pattie Boyd, the woman they both married. Heritage Auctions has dubbed it “not only a testament to Gibson’s golden era, [but] an icon of late 1960s rock history.”
Harrison was photographed playing the guitar in October 1968 alongside Clapton at Alan Pariser’s Los Angeles garden. According to reports, it was here that the seeds of some of Harrison’s most iconic compositions – including Here Comes the Sun, I Me Mine, and All Things Must Pass – were planted. It’s also believed to have helped inspire Clapton to write Layla.
This guitar, then, sits at the very center of the Harrison/Clapton relationship, and a shared love that sparked some iconic music.
Clapton later gifted the guitar to Delaney Bramlett, who played a key role in Calpton’s and Harrison’s respective solo careers, around 1970. It was first auctioned in 2013, five years after Bramlett’s death.
The guitar is in surprisingly good condition despite being well over 100 years old, although there are some signs of its workhorse nature.
See Heritage Auctions for more.
An Icon of Late 1960s Rock history: George Harrison & Eric Clapton’s Historic 1913 Gibson ‘Pattie’ Acoustic Headed to Auction
Legendary Provenance and Historical Meaning
The 1913 Gibson ‘pattie’ acoustic guitar marks an extraordinary chapter in rock history,famously owned and played by two of the genre’s most iconic figures: George Harrison and Eric Clapton. this vintage instrument, an enduring symbol of the late 1960s rock revolution, is now set to captivate collectors worldwide as it heads to auction after garnering attention from high-profile guitar enthusiasts.
Previously listed on Reverb for nearly $1,000,000, the guitar’s iconic status and historic provenance have firmly established it as one of the most desirable collector guitars ever to hit the market.
The Story Behind the 1913 Gibson ‘Pattie’ Acoustic
Gibson’s ‘Pattie’ model, known for its smaller body and warm tonal character, was a favored choice among musicians seeking intimate sound quality without sacrificing richness. Crafted in 1913,this guitar is more than a finely made instrument – it is indeed a piece of rock heritage.
- George Harrison’s Connection: The Beatles’ legendary lead guitarist George Harrison owned and frequently played the ‘Pattie’ acoustic during the late 1960s, a pivotal period of experimentation and musical evolution.
- Eric Clapton’s custody: Following Harrison, legendary guitarist Eric Clapton inherited the guitar, adding his own immense influence and musical chapters to the instrument’s legacy.
Why the ‘Pattie’ is So Revered Among Musicians and Collectors
This guitar isn’t just a relic; it’s a miniature time capsule rich with the sound and spirit of an iconic rock era. Several factors contribute to its revered status:
- Authentic connection to two of rock’s most influential guitarists.
- Rare manufacture year making it an exceptionally antique vintage guitar.
- Impeccable condition, preserving its historical and functional integrity.
- Iconic design and craftsmanship that epitomize Gibson’s early 20th-century work.
Details and Features of the 1913 Gibson ‘Pattie’ Acoustic
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year Made | 1913 |
| Model | ‘Pattie’ Acoustic |
| Body Size | Small-bodied, 14.5″ width |
| Wood Type | Mahogany back and sides,spruce top |
| Finish | Vintage natural lacquer |
| Provenance | Once owned by George Harrison and Eric Clapton |
Impact of Ownership by George Harrison and Eric Clapton
Ownership by Harrison and Clapton adds monumental value beyond monetary worth – the guitar is a direct link to some of the most creative moments in rock history.
- George Harrison: Used the guitar to craft some of Beatles’ more delicate acoustic passages, influencing folk-rock trends in the late ’60s.
- Eric Clapton: Known for blending blues with rock, Clapton’s use of the guitar introduced its distinct tonal qualities to a global audience.
Historical Moments Captured
The guitar reportedly featured in various jam sessions, private recordings, and possibly even unreleased demos, chronicling a unique cross-pollination of musical genius.
From Reverb Listing to Auction Block: The Road to a New Owner
The guitar’s recent listing on Reverb for almost $1 million sparked massive interest among collectors, tribute bands, and museums alike. This spotlight has now transitioned into an official auction, which is anticipated to set new records for vintage acoustic sales.
Why Auctions Matter for Historic Instruments
- Transparency and Competition: Auctions facilitate fair market pricing influenced by genuine collector demand.
- Documentation: Provenance and authenticity are verified stringently during auctions.
- Public Accessibility: Auctions provide a platform for wider public exposure than private sales.
Benefits of Owning a Historic Instrument Like the ‘Pattie’ Acoustic
- Investment Potential: Vintage guitars with strong provenance have proven to appreciate significantly over time.
- Cultural Impact: Owning a piece of rock history can inspire creativity and honor legendary musicianship.
- Display and Heritage: Such instruments frequently enough become centerpiece exhibits in private collections or museums.
Practical Tips for Collectors Interested in Historic Rock Guitars
- Authenticate Provenance: always verify ownership history through documented evidence.
- Check Condition: Minor wear may keep vintage value,but structural damages can be costly to restore.
- Consult experts: Use appraisal and authentication professionals before purchase or auction bidding.
- Understand Market Trends: Historic guitars tied to famous musicians often spike in value around anniversaries or related media events.
Case Study: The 1913 Gibson ‘Pattie’ Acoustic Provenance Timeline
| Year | Owner | notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1913 | Gibson Manufacturing | Original production year of the ‘pattie’ acoustic. |
| Late 1960s | George Harrison | Acquired and played during formative Beatles years. |
| 1970s | Eric Clapton | Inherited guitar; used in private sessions and recordings. |
| 2024 | private Collector | Listed on Reverb for nearly $1 million, now heading to auction. |
First-Hand Experience: What Makes Playing the ‘Pattie’ Acoustic Unique
Musicians who have had the rare privilege to play a vintage ‘Pattie’ remark on its distinctive tonal warmth and compact size, which delivers a surprisingly full-bodied sound that bridges folk intimacy and rock edge. Its smooth fretboard and resonant spruce top produce nuanced dynamics, ideal for fingerpicking and expressive strumming alike.
The connection felt while playing an instrument steeped in history can be a deeply inspiring experience, equating to holding a tangible piece of music legend in your hands.
