Historic Noel Gallagher Guitar from Oasis Album to Be Auctioned at Sotheby's
A piece of rock history is poised to captivate collectors as a signed acoustic guitar, famously used by Noel Gallagher to craft Oasis's iconic second album, heads to auction at Sotheby's. The Epiphone EJ-200, accompanied by a letter of authenticity confirming its role throughout the making of (What's the Story) Morning Glory?, is expected to fetch between £45,000 and £60,000 in the upcoming April rock and pop sale.
From Studio to Star Lot: The Guitar's Journey
This jumbo-sized acoustic, described by Sotheby's pop culture specialist Craig Inciardi as "typical of what he plays to this day," was instrumental in writing many of Oasis's hits. Gallagher relied on acoustic guitars for songwriting, and this particular instrument was used during the album's remarkably swift 15-day recording session. Inciardi marveled at the prolific output, noting, "He was just so prolific at the time ... with the amount of songs that were coming out of him, it's almost unprecedented."
The guitar's provenance adds to its allure. Originally gifted by Gallagher to a roadie, it was later acquired by the current seller, a devoted Oasis fan who moved in social circles close to the band. For enthusiasts, such items are "holy grails" or relics, with Inciardi emphasizing that "the value of musical instruments that have this sort of historic provenance has significantly increased over time."
Album Legacy and Cultural Impact
(What's the Story) Morning Glory? defied early lukewarm critiques to become the bestselling British album of the 1990s, moving 350,000 copies in its first week and ultimately selling 22 million worldwide. Its tracklist reads like a greatest hits compilation, featuring timeless anthems such as Don't Look Back in Anger, Wonderwall, and Champagne Supernova.
The album also played a central role in the "Battle of Britpop," a media-fueled rivalry with Blur in summer 1995. Tracks like Roll With It sparked frenzied coverage, with outlets like the Guardian and Los Angeles Times chronicling the chart clash. This cultural moment, marked by real acrimony compared to past band rivalries, underscored Oasis's rise as working-class heroes in the pop landscape.
Auction Highlights and Details
Alongside the Epiphone guitar, the Sotheby's sale will feature other rare Oasis memorabilia, including:
- A handwritten lyric sheet for Don't Look Back in Anger, offering a glimpse into Gallagher's creative process.
- A Rickenbacker 12-string guitar used by Gallagher for over a decade, highlighting his enduring musical tools.
Online bidding for the auction opens on April 9, marking the first time this guitar has been offered to the public. With estimates set at $60,000-$80,000, it represents a unique opportunity for fans and collectors to own a tangible piece of 90s rock history.
