Three hundred guitars went on the auction block in Surrey on Sunday, drawing about 1,000 interested bidders.
The collection belonged to Dr. Barry Rich, a retired doctor diagnosed with bipolar disorder, who had gone on a buying binge of the instruments during a two-year manic phase.
Among the highlights of the collection: A rare 1963 Gretsch acoustic guitar, a guitar that used to be owned by a member of jazz legend Nina Simone’s band, and — Rich’s favourite — a 100-year-old Gibson.
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Rich, who didn’t attend the auction because “I was afraid it would break my heart,” said it was a difficult decision to sell his prized items, but figures it’s the right one.
“It was a bit of a crazy time in my life,” he said of his manic phase. “I wanted to move on, and they have become an albatross around my neck.”
Auctioneer Able Auctions will donate 10 per cent of its commission to a charity of Rich’s choosing. Rich also plans to make a donation.
Bidders inspect guitars for sale at Able Auctions in Surrey, BC., May 7, 2017.
Bidders inspect guitars for sale at Able Auctions in Surrey, BC., May 7, 2017.
Bidders inspect guitars for sale at Able Auctions in Surrey, BC., May 7, 2017.
