Mercury’s cherished piano, used for Queen’s hits, leads a sale of memorabilia from his life and career.
Freddie Mercury’s treasured piano, famously used to compose the Queen classic “Bohemian Rhapsody,” has been auctioned for more than $2 million in a record-breaking sale. The iconic instrument headlined an auction organized by Sotheby’s, which included an array of the late singer’s personal belongings, stage costumes, and handwritten lyrics. Fans and collectors were captivated by this rare opportunity to own pieces of rock history.
Among the memorabilia, handwritten lyrics to “Bohemian Rhapsody” fetched close to $1.7 million, revealing insights into the song’s creation. The sale also featured a gold Cartier brooch inscribed with “Queen number 1,” a commemorative piece given to each band member by their manager when the song topped global charts. This unique brooch brought in $208,000 at auction.
One of the most sentimental items was a Victorian-style silver snake bracelet worn by Mercury in the “Bohemian Rhapsody” music video. This bracelet made auction history, setting the record for the highest price ever paid for a piece of jewelry owned by a rock star. Sotheby’s announced that the piece had achieved an unprecedented level of interest.
The auction was orchestrated by Mary Austin, Mercury’s close friend and confidante, to whom he entrusted his possessions upon his death from AIDS-related complications in 1991. Austin had carefully preserved the singer’s belongings for years, eventually deciding that they should be shared with the world, allowing fans to connect with Mercury’s legacy on a personal level.
Mercury’s piano, stage outfits, and personal effects provided fans a rare glimpse into the life of an artist who changed the music industry. Known for his flamboyant fashion sense, Mercury’s costumes were another highlight of the sale, showcasing his unique blend of elegance and theatricality that defined Queen’s stage presence.
For those who admired Mercury, the auction was a powerful tribute to his legacy, underscoring his timeless influence on music and pop culture. Each item served as a reminder of Mercury’s artistry, innovation, and the impact he left on his fans and the industry.
Mercury’s bold, operatic style and groundbreaking songs like “Bohemian Rhapsody” solidified him as a musical legend. This auction, which reached record prices, reaffirms that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.