Late Colts Owner's Musical Artifact Collection Headed to Auction

Instruments played by iconic artists like The Beatles, Nirvana, Eric Clapton, and Bob Dylan to be sold off

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The late Jim Irsay, former owner of the Indianapolis Colts, amassed an impressive collection of musical artifacts and memorabilia over the years. Now, his family is auctioning off this collection, which includes instruments played by some of the most legendary musicians of all time.

Why it matters

Irsay's collection was considered one of the greatest private collections of musical treasures in the world. The auction presents a rare opportunity for fans and collectors to own a piece of music history from iconic artists across multiple genres and eras.

The details

The collection up for auction includes a guitar played by The Beatles, a drum kit used by Nirvana, an electric guitar played by Eric Clapton, and a harmonica played by Bob Dylan. Christie's auction house is handling the sale, with music enthusiast Nathalie Ferneau previewing the items.

  • The auction is scheduled to take place in March 2026.

The players

Jim Irsay

The late owner of the Indianapolis Colts NFL team, who built one of the greatest private collections of musical artifacts and memorabilia.

Nathalie Ferneau

A specialist at Christie's auction house who is previewing the musical items from Irsay's collection that will be up for auction.

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What they’re saying

“Irsay's collection was considered one of the greatest private collections of musical treasures in the world.”

— Nathalie Ferneau, Christie's Auction House (NPR)

What’s next

The auction of Irsay's musical collection is scheduled to take place in March 2026.

The takeaway

This auction presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for music fans and collectors to own iconic instruments and memorabilia from some of the most legendary artists in music history.