This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/2/2024
A Fender Stratocaster that's been personally owned and played by Rolling Stone's lead guitarist Keith Richards. The guitar bears a beautiful sunburst finish, marked "Made in USA"; the serial number of the guitar is "S 986297", dating to 1979.
Any guitars that have been owned or played by Richards are extremely rare and very seldom appear for sale, making this highly sought-after. The Stratocaster is one of Richards' favorite guitars and something he's used during his whole career with The Rolling Stones and during his solo works. There are countless images of Richards playing a Stratocaster guitar with the same finish as this guitar. The guitar is accompanied by a Fender guitar case.
The pickguard is signed in full name by Keith Richards, making the guitar a truly unique piece as it's owned, played, AND signed by Richards. Note that the pickguard has been signed during a later stage in Richards's career, and was later mounted to the guitar. The previous pickguard is still available; meaning that the buyer can easily switch the pickguard if that's desirable.
Accompanied by a Letter of Provenance from César Diaz, who worked with Keith Richards as his guitar technician. Diaz is also known to have worked with high-profile guitarists such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, Neil Young, and Bob Dylan. He also toured with Dylan in the early 1990s. The letter in full: "The Fender Stratocaster, serial #S986297, 1979, was previously owned by Keith Richards. Keith played this guitar in his studio and on stage. Beautiful finish and good condition, all original. I attest that the guitar is authentic and that it belonged to Keith. Also accompanied is a Letter of Provenance from the man who bought the guitar from Diaz, confirming that the sale took place in 1990, the same year as the letter from Diaz was written. Also accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA regarding the signed pickguard, and a Certification of Authenticity by RR Auction regarding the signed pickguard. In addition, a Letter of Authenticity from RGU is also included.