Elton John is one of the most iconic and influential musicians of the 20th century, known for his flamboyant stage presence and eclectic music style.
His contributions to the music industry have earned him numerous awards and accolades, and have also resulted in the sale of various pieces of Elton John memorabilia at auction.
Here are 10 of the most valuable pieces of Elton John memorabilia that have sold at auction:
1. Elton John's stage costume
In 2014, a stage costume worn by Elton John during his 1975 "Captain Fantastic" tour was sold at a Julien's Auctions event for $12,500. The costume featured a jumpsuit adorned with sequins and feathers, and a matching cape.
2. Piano used in Elton John's Rocket Hour
In 2011, a piano used by Elton John during his Rocket Hour radio show was sold at a Bonhams auction for £5,625. The piano was a 1920s baby grand, and was signed by Elton John on the inside.
3. Elton John's sunglasses
In 2003, a pair of Elton John's sunglasses sold for $2,300 at a Sotheby's auction. The sunglasses featured a gold frame with red lenses, and were worn by Elton John during his 1974 "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" tour.
4. Elton John's gold records
In 2018, a collection of Elton John's gold records sold for $4,000 at a RR Auction event. The records included "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy," "Madman Across the Water," and "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road."
5. Original hand-drawn artwork for Elton John's "Captain Fantastic" album
In 2016, the original hand-drawn artwork for Elton John's "Captain Fantastic" album cover sold for £40,000 at a Bonhams auction. The artwork was created by artist Alan Aldridge and featured a colorful and psychedelic design.
6. Elton John's platform boots
In 2003, a pair of Elton John's platform boots sold for $2,500 at a Christie's auction. The boots were worn by Elton John during his 1974 "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" tour, and featured a silver and black design.
7. Elton John's stage microphone
In 2018, a stage microphone used by Elton John during his 1985 "Breaking Hearts" tour sold for $1,300 at a RR Auction event. The microphone was signed by Elton John on the handle.
8. Elton John's Rolls Royce
In 2001, Elton John's Rolls Royce Silver Spur II was sold at a Bonhams auction for £60,000. The car featured a custom-built interior, including a television, VCR, and refrigerator.
9. Elton John's handwritten lyrics
In 2019, a set of Elton John's handwritten lyrics for his hit song "Your Song" sold for £40,000 at a Bonhams auction. The lyrics were written by Elton John in 1970 and featured his original notes and revisions.
10. Elton John's tour program
In 2017, a tour program from Elton John's 1971 "Friends" tour sold for $3,000 at a RR Auction event. The program featured a cover design by artist David Hockney and included photos and information about Elton John's tour.
Elton John's contribution to the music industry has resulted in the sale of various pieces of memorabilia at auction, including stage costumes, instruments, personal belongings, and handwritten lyrics.
These pieces serve as a testament to his lasting musical legacy.
About your Author:
Adrian Roose has over 30 years’ experience covering all aspects of the rare stamp & memorabilia industry during which he has sold over £50m of unique items, helping build collections for Royalty, household name celebrities and 1,000s of collectors around the world.
Adrian was previously a Director at Stanley Gibbons, a Board Member of Stampex, and Executive Director of Paul Fraser Collectibles, PFC Auctions and JustCollecting, prior to founding The Memorabilia Club.