Elvis 1942 Martin D-18 guitar sells for $1.2 million

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Elvis Presley’s most important guitar ever to come to auction sold for $1,200,000 when it sold on 1st August at GottaHaveRockAndRoll.com.

Elvis Presley 1942 Martin D-18 guitar sells for $1.2 million

The historic 1942 Martin D-18 guitar, Serial Number 80221, which Elvis Presley owned between 1954 and 1956, is often referred to as his “Sun Sessions” guitar. Elvis used this actual guitar extensively while recording at the iconic Sun Studios in Memphis, TN and while performing on stage during this period. He can be seen playing the guitar in many, many photographs from this time, two of which are featured here.

Elvis purchased the guitar at O.K. Houck’s Piano Store in Memphis, trading in his Martin 000-18. He decorated the body of the guitar with adhesive metal letters spelling out his name, “ELVIS”. The letters “ELVI” remain with the “S” missing. The extensive wear visible on the guitar due to Elvis’ hard strumming is testament to its considerable use by Elvis. During this period Elvis recorded some of his most classic songs, songs that catapulted him into his meteoric rise to fame, including “That’s All Right (Mama)”, “Blue Moon of Kentucky”, “Good Rockin’ Tonight” and many more.

For more details visit GottaHaveRockAndRoll.com