In September, fans of the late Queen frontman Freddie Mercury will have the opportunity to acquire personal items that once belonged to the iconic rock star. These items, ranging from a moustache comb to dazzling stage costumes, will be put up for auction, allowing admirers to own memorabilia connected to one of the world’s most renowned musicians.
Around 1,500 items, including handwritten lyrics, artwork, and collectibles from Mercury’s London residence, Garden Lodge, have been under the care of his close friend Mary Austin since his passing from AIDS-related pneumonia in 1991. In an emotional statement, Austin expressed that after many years of cherishing these cherished possessions, the time has come for her to close this chapter of her life and part with them.
Before the auctions take place, the items will be publicly displayed for the first time in a month-long summer exhibition at Sotheby’s in London. The exhibition will offer visitors a unique opportunity to see these personal artifacts up close and appreciate their significance in Mercury’s life.
The auctions will be divided into six separate events, each dedicated to a different aspect of the singer’s life. Among the items up for sale are Mercury’s crown and regal cloak, worn during the grand finale of his last tour with Queen in 1986, with an estimated value of £60,000 to £80,000. Handwritten working lyrics for songs like “We Are The Champions” and “Killer Queen” will also be available, with estimated prices ranging from £50,000 to £300,000.
Additionally, smaller items such as a Tiffany & Co. silver moustache comb, pink star-shaped glasses, and notebooks containing Mercury’s drawings will be part of the auction. These items offer a glimpse into the personal tastes and artistic expressions of the legendary musician.
The sale highlights will embark on a tour to cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong, providing an opportunity for international fans to appreciate and potentially bid on these coveted pieces. The main exhibition will begin in London on August 4, marking a momentous occasion for fans to connect with Freddie Mercury’s legacy through this precious memorabilia.