The original 1940s Gretsch Synchromatic 150 guitar played by George Michael in the legendary 1987 “Faith” music video is heading to the auction block. The instrument, which became visually synonymous with the singer’s transformation from Wham! frontman to a solo superstar, will be auctioned by Sworders on October 29, 2026, and is estimated to fetch over £100,000 ($135,310).
The guitar is the centerpiece of a larger auction titled “Faith & Fame: A Personal George Michael Collection,” which features items amassed by his long-time personal assistant, Siobhan Bailey. Bailey, who passed away in 2014, worked alongside the pop icon for nearly two decades, carefully preserving an archive that offers an intimate look into his professional and personal life. The entire collection is expected to bring in over £200,000 ($260,000).
Among the rare memorabilia are detailed tour itineraries spanning Wham!’s early years through his solo career, including documents from Wham!’s historic 1985 tour of China. The auction will also feature a typed running order from the 1985 Live Aid concert, numerous presentation gold and platinum discs celebrating milestone record sales, and personally inscribed photographs.
Sworders Chairman Guy Schooling noted that the collection tells a story of global creativity and ambition, giving fans a unique chance to own pieces of pop history. Bidding will be available globally via Sworders Live, with the physical collection on public display at the auction house’s London gallery from October 20 to 27.