Setting a new benchmark for rock ‘n’ roll history, the upright Broadwood piano John Lennon used to craft masterpieces for Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band has been auctioned for a staggering £2.5 million ($3.2 million).

Sold at Christie’s in New York, the instrument is now considered the most expensive piece of Beatles memorabilia ever purchased. It was the centerpiece of a high-profile auction featuring the “Jim Irsay Collection: Hall of Fame,” which showcased treasures amassed by the late Indianapolis Colts owner before his passing last year.

The piano—integral to the creation of hits like “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds” and “A Day In The Life“—shattered its initial valuation of $400,000 to $600,000, ultimately reaching a final price of $3,247,000.

It wasn’t the only record-breaker of the night; gear belonging to Ringo Starr also saw intense bidding wars.

His original Ludwig drum kit from the band’s early years fetched nearly $2.4 million, only to be eclipsed moments later by a historic drumhead from the group’s 1964 Ed Sullivan Show debut, which sold for almost $2.9 million.

Guitars belonging to John Lennon and George Harrison also fetched millions at the auction.

A stage-played “Rose-Morris” Rickenbacker once owned by Lennon sold for $1,270,000, while a Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins guitar was also among the high-value items.

Additionally, a custom prototype Vox “Kensington” reached a realized price of $609,600, and a Maton “Mastersound” guitar brought in $279,400.

Beyond the instruments, the auction offered a deep dive into the band’s personal history, including Lennon’s private letters and the legal affidavit filed by Paul McCartney that signaled the end of the group.

Reflecting on the event, Christie’s Americas president Julien Pradels noted that the sale felt like “making history,” honoring Irsay’s legacy by showcasing iconic objects that define modern cultural history.