Own a Piece of Punk Rock History: The Ramones Memorabilia to Sell at RR Auction

Punk rock music fans will get the chance to own a piece of history this June. A selection of items associated with the Ramones will be available with RR Auction during its June 22, 2023 Marvels of Modern Music sale. Instruments, clothing, art, and other signed Ramones memorabilia will cross the auction block.

Leading this sale is a stage-worn Schott leather motorcycle jacket worn by both Dee Dee Ramone and CJ Ramone (lot #3397; estimate: USD 45,000 – $65,000). Dee Dee Ramone, also known as Douglas Glenn Colvin, was a bassist and founding member of the band. He also contributed extensively to the songwriting and composing of songs such as “53rd and 3rd” and “Bonzo Goes To Bitburg.” CJ Ramone later replaced Dee Dee as the band’s bassist after Dee Dee left to pursue personal projects. 

The available motorcycle jacket features autographs by both Dee Dee and CJ in silver ink on the lapels. According to RR Auction, Dee Dee obtained this jacket in 1983 and wore it to Ramones concerts for the next six years. After his departure, it was handed on to CJ Ramone, who wore it to performances until the band’s retirement in 1996. The jacket remains in good condition. It carries the history of the band in its details: a U.S. Air Force cap insignia added to one lapel by CJ Ramone, assorted cuts to accommodate the wearers’ guitar playing, and light rusting to the metal accessories from time spent outdoors. This piece of Ramones memorabilia appears in countless concert photos from the era and was reportedly worn to almost 800 shows.

Another major piece of Ramones memorabilia in this auction is lot #3434, Johnny Ramone’s signed and rehearsal-used blue Mosrite electric guitar (estimate: $50,000 – $75,000). It is signed and inscribed on the white pickboard. This guitar came to Johnny Ramone around 1987 or 1988 via his friend, Chris Lamy of punk rock band GG Allin and the Jabbers. The Mosrite served as Johnny Ramone’s backup guitar for several years, a necessary precaution after the Ramones suffered gear heists in the late 1970s and early 80s. Johnny later sold it to a fan around 1990. This Mosrite Ventures II model was discontinued in 1966; approximately 400 Ventures II guitars with ‘German carves’ were produced. 

A founding member of the Ramones, Johnny (born John William Cummings) was known for his use of tonally aggressive downstrokes, full barre chords, and rhythmic style. His methods would later influence guitarists in bands such as Iron Maiden, Metallica, and Megadeth.

A 1977 stage-used banner, reading “Gabba Gabba Hey,” is another key lot of Ramones memorabilia in the upcoming sale (lot #3437; estimate: $40,000 – $50,000). The oversized banner was handmade by Arturo Vega, the band’s artistic director and friend. Referencing the song “Pinhead,” this banner appeared behind the Ramones during concerts and remains in very good condition. It was exhibited with the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles from 2016 to 2017.

Beyond Ramones memorabilia, the upcoming RR Auction event features over 600 lots from icons such as The Rolling Stones, Billy Joel, Prince, and John Lennon. This auction will begin at 6:00 PM EDT on June 22, 2023. View the complete catalog for the Marvels of Modern Music event and register to place a bid on Bidsquare.

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