Jimmy Page’s Rare Guitar From Competition Auctioned for £100,000
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From Magazine Giveaway to Family Heirloom
A guitar once owned by Led Zeppelin legend Jimmy Page has sold at auction for £100,000. The 1957 Gretsch Chet Atkins 6120 electric guitar was first given away by New Musical Express in a 1974 competition after Page posed with it on the magazine’s cover while dressed in cricket whites.
The contest winner, Charles Reid of London, received the guitar directly from Page, who shared that he had purchased it in Nashville in 1972 for £200. Musician Phil O’Donoghue of Chessington later bought the instrument from Reid. After O’Donoghue’s death earlier in 2025, his family decided to place the rare piece on the auction block.
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A Remarkable Sale
Auctioneer Luke Hobbs of Gardiner Houlgate explained that the sale “exceeded all expectations,” noting the guitar had been expected to fetch up to £50,000. The instrument was sold with a photograph showing Page handing it to Reid, adding to its historical appeal.
Hobbs reflected on the experience, saying, “Of all the artist-associated instruments I’ve been involved with this has been my favourite journey, both for the remarkable story behind it and the rarity of the artist.”
The guitar’s connection to Page—who grew up in Surrey and remains one of rock’s most influential guitarists—helped drive the final price far beyond predictions, making it a standout moment in the world of music memorabilia.
