Pete Townshend’s Guild F-50 Jumbo Guitar That He Smashed In 1973

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This is Pete Townshend’s Guild F-50 Jumbo guitar that he smashed in a fit of rage in 1973 in his studio. This guitar was used to record Behind Blue Eyes among many other songs. The guitar is signed by Pete and dated 1989. Also included is a letter from Pete, written in 1989 on his Eel Pie Recording letterhead, providing exceptional provenance.

On 30th May 1989, Pete Townshend wrote:

“To Whom It May Concern, I bought this guitar from Manning’s Music Shop in 1971. I used it to record Behind Blue Eyes at the Record Plant in NYC (which version was later replaced). I used it then at my home in London for demos—including all the songs on Who’s Next (except Pinball Wizard and Won’t Get Fooled Again). I broke it in 1973 in a rage of frustration in my studio when I was interrupted by one of my family while recording. I broke another guitar at the same time—a Guild 12-string—which I have had repaired. I am not very proud of all this.”

Signed by Pete Townshend.

The guitar is displayed in this very cool custom display case. Authentic Pete Townshend and The Who memorabilia of this caliber has become increasingly difficult to find.