The iconic guitar, which belonged to the late Gallagher, sold for £889,400 (€1,068,956) at Bonhams auction house.

Ireland’s Culture Minister, Catherine Martin, announced that Live Nation Gaiety Ltd had purchased the guitar with the intention of donating it to the NMI.

This purchase ensures that the famous guitar will now be preserved by the Irish state and made accessible to the public, as well as to Gallagher’s fans worldwide.

“I am absolutely delighted that Rory’s guitar is coming home to Ireland,” said Minister Martin. “My department has worked closely with the National Museum to make this possible. The acquisition, in partnership with the NMI, is a fantastic achievement. Since the announcement of the Rory Gallagher collection sale, I have shared in the nation’s excitement, particularly among music fans, that Rory’s legendary guitar would become part of our national heritage collection, commemorating his incredible contributions to music.”

“Rory Gallagher played a pivotal role in establishing Ireland as a global hub for rock music,” she added.

Ms. Martin also praised Gallagher’s worldwide success, noting his “authentic blues-based style” and the lasting impression he left through his albums and unforgettable live performances. She emphasized that this generous donation would not only safeguard the iconic instrument for future generations but also attract visitors from around the world.

Gallagher, originally from Co Donegal, later moved with his family to Cork, where he rose to fame with his band Taste in the 1960s. He passed away in 1995 at the age of 47.

In 1963, he purchased the Fender Stratocaster for £100 on credit from Crowley’s Music Store in Cork, and the instrument became inseparable from his image.

The auction, which took place on Thursday, featured 94 lots, including guitars, amplifiers, and accessories from Gallagher’s career, generating a total of £2.3 million (€2.7 million).

Donal Gallagher, Rory’s brother and former manager, expressed his gratitude for the support shown during the auction: “We have been overwhelmed by the response and the love and respect shown for Rory and his incredible legacy. Though it was difficult to part with this collection, I am thankful that these cherished instruments will continue to share Rory’s music and memory across the world. We are especially happy that his 1961 Strat is returning to Ireland, where it will be shared with his fans for generations to come.”