If you could go back in time and change one moment, what would it be? For Tony Goddard, that moment came in the early 1970s, when he had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to purchase an iconic piece of music history – only to let it slip through his fingers.
It all started in the vibrant, property-developing heart of 1970s London. Goddard, a property developer, was living in a converted warehouse at Oliver’s Wharf by the Thames, a stone’s throw away from some of the most notable social circles in the city. One such connection was Jo Jo Johns, a close friend who, unbeknownst to Goddard at the time, would play a key role in shaping his future.
In 1971, Johns was working as a personal assistant to none other than The Beatles at their iconic Saville Row office. She lived in a penthouse right next to Goddard’s, and the two formed a friendship that would lead to an unforgettable (yet somewhat regrettable) moment in history. When John Lennon decided to head to America, he entrusted Jo Jo with clearing out his home, Tittenhurst Park. She offered Goddard the chance to purchase various items from the property, including some truly legendary pieces.
Among these treasures was an upright Steinway piano, which Lennon famously used to compose his timeless anthem, Imagine. It was offered to Goddard for just £750, but with one condition: it had to be collected by the end of that weekend. Unfortunately, without the proper vehicle to transport the grand instrument, Goddard missed his chance.
Fast forward a few years, and that very piano sold at auction for a staggering £1.6 million. The missed opportunity has become a bittersweet memory for Goddard, who now refers to it as one of his biggest regrets. However, not all was lost in that unforgettable transaction.
While Goddard let the piano slip away, he didn’t walk away empty-handed. He did manage to acquire one very special item from Lennon’s Tittenhurst Park: a Conrad Baritone guitar, which The Beatles had purchased during their U.S. tour in 1965/66. This rare instrument had been used during the recording of their Let It Be album, and it has remained in Goddard’s possession ever since.
Charles Hanson of Hansons Auctioneers recently carried out research on the guitar, confirming it to be a rare Conrad Baritone model from Chicago – an instrument that was not available in the UK at the time. Most importantly, the guitar is believed to have been owned and played by George Harrison, adding an even greater layer of history to this already remarkable piece.
“Every once in a while, something truly special comes our way,” said Charles Hanson. “This Conrad Baritone guitar represents a rare and tangible connection to The Beatles, and it’s an honour to bring it to auction. The fact that it was in the hands of George Harrison, one of the greatest guitarists in music history, makes it an exceptional piece for any serious collector.”
Now, after being stored in Goddard’s attic for decades, the guitar is ready for its moment in the spotlight.
It will be auctioned as part of Hansons’ Music Memorabilia & Film Auction on 5th March, giving collectors and Beatles fans alike the chance to own a truly unique and iconic piece of rock history.
Though Goddard may never fully get over passing on Lennon’s Steinway, the Conrad Baritone guitar remains a piece of musical legacy that will soon find a new home with someone who understands its true value.
Interested in owning a piece of Beatles history?
Auction Information
Auction: Derby March Music Memorabilia & Film Auction
Auction date: 5th March 2025 | 10am
Location: Hansons Auctioneers Derbyshire Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
