By Sohaib Shams
A white Fender Stratocaster played by Johnny Marr after his departure from The Smiths is expected to sell for up to £30,000 at auction next month. The instrument, a Fender American Vintage 1962 Reissue Stratocaster, will be offered by Gardiner Houlgate at their Corsham, Wiltshire saleroom on 8 December with an estimate of £20,000 to £30,000.
Auction Details
The guitar was used by Marr during his tenure with the band The The, which he joined in 1988, and featured on the 1989–1990 Versus The World tour. The headstock bears Marr’s signature and the lot includes a handwritten postcard describing its history. Public viewing is scheduled for 4, 7 and 8 December.
Collector Demand and Previous Sales
Auctioneer Luke Hobbs said the valuation reflects recent sales of Marr’s instruments, noting that his equipment is highly sought after by collectors and fans. In September, a collection of Marr’s guitars fetched nearly £4 million at Christie’s in London.
Marr’s Career and Smiths Legacy
Marr, now in his sixties, is regarded as one of Britain’s greatest living guitarists. The Smiths, completed by singer Morrissey, bassist Andy Rourke and drummer Mike Joyce, released four acclaimed albums before splitting in 1987. Marr later worked with The Pretenders, launched a solo career with all albums reaching the UK Top 10, and has recently collaborated with artists including Gorillaz, Billie Eilish and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
Morrissey Feud Continues
Despite fan hopes, both Marr and Morrissey have ruled out a reunion. Morrissey publicly demanded in 2022 that Marr stop mentioning him in interviews, and in 2024 accused Marr of rejecting a lucrative reunion offer. Marr confirmed he turned down the offer because the “vibe wasn’t right.”
