"Interest in music memorabilia is reaching unprecedented levels, fueled by collectors who appreciate both the cultural significance of these instruments and the legacy of the artists behind them-often resulting in record-breaking sales," said Martin Nolan, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Julien's Auctions. "Our annual Music Icons auction, featuring extraordinary guitars from Ace Frehley, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Kirk Hammett, underscores Julien's ongoing commitment to bringing museum-quality pieces to market while shaping the global conversation around music collecting."

The "Music Icons" sale features an extraordinary collection of some of the most powerful and influential guitars ever to appear at auction, including instruments played by rock legends such as Ace Frehley (KISS), Eddie Van Halen, Billy Duffy (The Cult), Izzy Stradlin (Guns N' Roses), Kirk Hammett (Metallica), Mick Mars (Mötley Crüe), Dave Mustaine (Megadeth), Scott Ian (Anthrax), and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Among the many highlights is the guitar Johnny Cash played at his 1956 Grand Ole Opry debut. Cash's 1954 Martin D-18 acoustic was used from 1954 to 1956, potentially making it his earliest professional guitar. During that period, Cash recorded singles including "Hey, Porter," "Folsom Prison Blues," "I Walk the Line," and "There You Go."

For KISS fans, the sale includes dozens of unique items, from stage-worn costumes to personal effects. The centerpiece is Ace Frehley's 1975 Gibson Les Paul, one of the most historically significant guitars in rock and roll. Frehley relied on the instrument throughout his career, using it on stage and in the studio with KISS more than any other guitar in his arsenal. His long association with the Gibson Les Paul has earned him a place on nearly every "Top 10 Les Paul Players of All Time" list.