A drumkit used by The Beatles on the “Ed Sullivan Show” and Elton John’s Steinway piano will soon go under the hammer in New York City. Part of the “Jim Irsay Collection,” the auction also features rare sports memorabilia, including a bat used by Jackie Robinson and signed items from Babe Ruth.
‘Ed Sullivan Show’ Beatles drumkit, Elton John’s Steinway piano and more to be sold at historic NYC auction
Key Takeaways:
- The auction features iconic musical instruments, led by The Beatles’ drumkit and Elton John’s Steinway.
- Sports memorabilia includes a bat used by Jackie Robinson and artifacts signed by Babe Ruth.
- The items come from the “Jim Irsay Collection.”
A Landmark Auction in New York
New York City is set to host what organizers are calling a historic auction, showcasing a remarkable range of cultural and sports collectibles. Among the highlights is the drumkit featured on the legendary “Ed Sullivan Show” by The Beatles, a piece of music history that draws fans and collectors alike.
The Jim Irsay Collection
Named for Jim Irsay, the collection also boasts an impressive lineup of sports and music memorabilia. According to the original news report, these treasures once belonged to a late former NFL boss. Over time, they have been curated into a single, wide-ranging trove of cultural icons, reflecting major achievements in music and sports.
Musical History Under the Hammer
Music aficionados may be especially drawn to Elton John’s Steinway piano, another showstopper item. The unmistakable instrument has been associated with some of the artist’s defining performances and compositions. Alongside it stands The Beatles’ Ed Sullivan Show drumkit—an artifact tied to one of the band’s earliest and most influential American television appearances.
Sports Memorabilia of Legendary Proportions
In addition to the music-related items, the auction will feature significant pieces of sports history. A bat once used by Jackie Robinson, a barrier-breaking legend in baseball, is among the highlights. The Jim Irsay Collection also includes items signed by Babe Ruth, further testifying to the incredible scope of this auction for passionate sports fans.
Anticipating Collector Interest
As with any major sale of cultural artifacts, enthusiasm is expected to run high. Collectors, historians, and fans of both music and sports will be keen to see these items cross the auction block. While estimates of final bidding prices have not been publicly disclosed, the legacy tied to each piece alone suggests intense competition among buyers.