Hundreds of Queen records and memorabilia, collected by a family from the Carlisle area, are up for auction this month.
The closing date of 1818 Auctioneers timed, online sale coincides with the death of the band’s lead singer Freddie Mercury, who died of AIDS on the 24 November 1991.
The famous British rock band was formed in London in 1970 and they became one of the world’s best-selling music artists. Alongside Freddie Mercury was Brian May, Roger Taylor and John Deacon.
With 83 lots in total the firm’s valuer, Simon Norfolk, says it’s the first time 1818 Auctioneers have dedicated a sale to one band or artist.
The vendor, who wishes to remain anonymous, says it was his eight-year-old daughter that turned the rest of the family into life-long fans. On a holiday to Scotland each family member brought their favourite cassette to play in the car and it was a Queen compilation that won everyone over.
Since the late 1970s the family attended concerts, and bought everything from seven-inch singles to box sets. They also collected Queen memorabilia ranging from postage stamps to models of the band and t-shirts. As his two daughters grew up and moved away much of the collection was stored in the attic. The family hope it will be enjoyed once more by new admirers of one of Britain’s most well-known and well-loved rock bands.
Valuer Simon Norfolk says there’s something to suit all budgets, with estimates ranging from £10 to up to £600. As Simon explains:
“The top lot is a rare, promo set for Queen’s ‘The Miracle’, which could make between £500 and £800. There’s also Queen, the complete works, a 14-album box set which I expect to make between £250 to £300. And there’s another rare promo pack for ‘The Miracle’ with a booklet, photo, compact disc and cassette tape valued at £150 to £200.”
During the November Covid-19 lockdown, 1818 Auctioneers are still running their online timed auctions. Although viewing is not currently permitted, the firm is offering a delivery and click and collect service from their saleroom near Milnthorpe.
For more information please visit https://www.1818auctioneers.co.uk/ or call 105395 66201.
