This is the second auction in a month that Julien’s, an auction house which focuses specifically on celebrity memorabilia, are holding in order to sell items once owned by the Beatles.
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The Indianapolis Colts owner made his latest pricey purchase Friday, picking up Ringo Starr’s first Ludwig drum set at auction for $1.75 million.
Ringo’s Ludwig kit was used for over 200 performances, including records like I Want To Hold Your Hand, after the drummer took possession of it in 1963.
The Beatles perform on the “Ed Sullivan Show” in NY on February 9, 1964.
Starr also sold his copy of The Beatles’ White Album for a record breaking $790,000 to an anonymous buyer.
Irsay already owns the guitars that belonged to John, Paul and George, meaning that the drum kit completes the set, reuniting the Fab Fours instruments. Part of the proceeds go to the couple’s Lotus Foundation, which supports charitable projects aiming to advance social welfare.
Irsay is a huge music fan and an avid collector of music gear, including over 30 famous guitars, some of which were used by Bob Dylan, Jerry Garcia and Eric Clapton.
“Finally, after 45 years, the Beatles are together again”, Irsay told the Associated Press via text message.
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The drum kit was also used by Sir Paul on his first solo album, McCartney.
