George Harrison bought the guitar in 1963 in Mount Vernon, Illinois, while visiting his sister in the United States, the auction house said.

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George Harrison's 1962 Rickenbacker Guitar Sold for US$657,000

A 1962 Rickenbacker 425 electric guitar played by George Harrison sold for US$657,000 at auction in New York, exceeding its pre-sale estimate of US$400,000 to US$600,000. The iconic instrument was used by Harrison on British television during 1963 appearances on shows such as "Ready Steady Go!" and "Thank Your Lucky Stars," prior to the Beatles' groundbreaking US debut.
Guitar's Television Appearances

Harrison played the black-and-white Rickenbacker 425 electric guitar during significant 1963 television performances in Britain with The Beatles. These included appearances on "Ready Steady Go!" and "Thank Your Lucky Stars," showcasing the instrument to a wide audience before the band's international fame intensified.
Recording Sessions and Purchase Location

The Rickenbacker guitar was also utilised by Harrison during the recording sessions for the hit song "I Want to Hold Your Hand" and "This Boy" in October 1963. This occurred months before the band's "Beatlemania" phenomenon swept across the United States. Harrison acquired the guitar in 1963 in Mount Vernon, Illinois, during a visit to his sister in the United States.
Other Beatles Memorabilia Sales

The auction also featured other significant items related to The Beatles and their contemporaries. A handwritten placard bearing doodles and signatures from John Lennon and Yoko Ono, originating from their 1969 "bed-in" event in Montreal, achieved US$187,000. Additionally, a Hofner bass guitar rented by Paul McCartney during the mid-1960s sold for US$125,000.

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George Harrison bought the guitar in 1963 in Mount Vernon, Illinois, while visiting his sister in the United States, the auction house said.

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