1955 Fender Stratocaster used by The Yardbirds in 1965

The Yardbirds • The Rolling Stone Discotheque, New York City • Sept 17, 1965
Chris Dreja is on the left with this 1955 Stratocaster.
(Photo left to right: Chris Dreja, Keith Relf, Paul Samwell-Smith, and Jeff Beck. Drummer Jim McCarty not shown.)

This second year of production Stratocaster was one of the very first ever to arrive in England. It was purchased as a used instrument in 1959 by the current owner, a member of the Liverpool group The Mersey Lads. The band was signed to MGM, and played the same venues as the other Liverpool groups, including The Cavern club, made famous by The Beatles. Relocating to New York they became the house band for The Rolling Stone Discotheque, where many famous acts used their equipment to perform their hits.

Included with this lot are 7 beautiful photographs of The Yardbirds at The Rolling Stone Discotheque during their September 17, 1965 performance. Five of these images are currently unpublished, and two are featured in the Jeff Beck biography Jeff's Book.

The guitar is original except for the following modifications: Schaller tuners were added and a refret done in 1970. The original 3 way switch was replaced with a 5 way, and the original first variation spring cover plate had it's holes enlarged in the 1960's.The guitar's original tweed 'center pocket' case has had the handle replaced.