Christie’s Auctions Punk History

For the first time in Christie’s auction history, the New York City auction house announced on Tuesday that they would host an evening dedicated solely to punk rock memorabilia.

For the first time in Christie’s auction history, the New York City auction house announced on Tuesday that they would host an evening dedicated solely to punk rock memorabilia.

Why the sudden foray into downstroked power chords and studded leather? “We understand that tastes change, tastes mature,” Christie’s pop-culture chief Simeon Lipman said. “Ten years ago, punk memorabilia probably wouldn’t be something we’d be auctioning here. But now, people of a certain age have a certain ability to splurge on this material.”

The auction should satisfy all varieties of classic punk taste. Items from such legendary acts as the Sex Pistols, Ramones, and Buzzcocks will be available to those with a love for punk (and a little cash). Set to be included in the auction are classic posters, fliers, t-shirts, and other items that were able to survive the era.

And if owning a piece of punk history just doesn’t satisfy your rock and roll appetite, John Lennon’s organ (from their 1965 performance at Shea Stadium) will also be up for grabs for the highest bidder, who is expected to shell out close to $200,000 for the instrument.

The auction will be held November 24.