Legendary Jim Irsay Collection Hits Auction Block
The Irsay family is set to auction a remarkable collection of memorabilia owned by the late Jim Irsay, former owner of the Indianapolis Colts. The auction will be conducted by Christie’s starting in March 2026. Notably, the collection was valued at over $1 billion at one point.
Significant Collection Details
The collection is renowned for its extensive array of items, particularly musical instruments. These instruments include those once owned by legendary artists such as:
- The Beatles
- Jimi Hendrix
- Prince
- Kurt Cobain
- Eric Clapton
In addition to the musical treasures, the collection features historical artifacts such as:
- Muhammad Ali’s championship belt from the “Rumble in the Jungle”
- The saddle from Secretariat’s Triple Crown victory
- A rare 200-year-old copy of the Declaration of Independence
A Reflection of Legacy
The Irsay family expressed their deep respect for the legacy Jim built, indicating that this significant decision was made with much thought. They noted, “Our dad was a passionate collector, driven not by possession, but by a profound appreciation for the beauty, history, and cultural resonance of the items he curated.”
Some select items from the collection will remain with the family, and a portion of the proceeds from the auction will be donated to charity.
Exhibitions and Cultural Impact
Parts of the collection have been showcased in various traveling exhibitions and concerts in recent years. One notable exhibition had a year-long run at Indiana University, concluding in September 2025.
About Jim Irsay
Jim Irsay, who owned the Indianapolis Colts since 1997, passed away in May 2025 at the age of 65. Since his death, ownership has transitioned to his three daughters. In the current NFL season, their team is performing exceptionally well with a 7-1 record, led by quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Jonathan Taylor.
