Mary Austin to Auction Remarkable Collection of Freddie Mercury’s Personal Items
One of the closest confidants of the legendary Freddie Mercury, Mary Austin, is preparing to auction an extraordinary collection of 1,500 personal items once owned by the iconic Queen frontman. Among these treasures are handwritten lyrics and flamboyant stage costumes that illustrate Mercury’s unique flair and artistry. This extensive collection was amassed over three decades and has been stored in Austin’s west London home.
Following Mercury’s passing in 1991, he bequeathed both the house and its remarkable contents to Austin. In her own words, “The collection takes you deeper within the individual and the man I knew,” highlighting the intimacy and depth of her relationship with the celebrated artist.
A Glimpse into Freddie’s World
Seated in her grand drawing room, adorned with a portrait by French painter James Jacques Tissot—the last artwork Mercury purchased just weeks before his death—Austin reflected on the collection’s significance. The Tissot piece is estimated to fetch between £400,000 and £600,000.
“You see the spectrum of his taste,” Austin remarked during an exclusive interview with BBC. “It’s a very intelligent, sophisticated collection.” This auction promises fans and collectors a rare opportunity to glimpse into the mind and life of one of music’s greatest legends.
Notable Items Up for Auction
The auction, set to take place at Sotheby’s in London, will feature numerous highlighted items, including:
- Handwritten Lyrics for “We Are The Champions” – Expected to sell for £200,000-300,000.
- Working Lyrics for “Killer Queen” – Anticipated value of £50,000-70,000.
- Stage Costumes – Including sequined outfits and extravagant crowns, showcasing Mercury’s theatrical style.
- Personal Items – Such as a telephone from his bedside, a commissioned marble bar, and his iconic waistcoat worn in the final video “These Are the Days of Our Lives.”
| Item | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Handwritten Lyrics to “We Are The Champions” | £200,000-300,000 |
| Working Lyrics to “Killer Queen” | £50,000-70,000 |
| Sequined Stage Costumes | Varies |
| Favorite Waistcoat | £5,000-7,000 |
Closing a Chapter
At 72 years old, Austin has decided that the time has come to part with this treasured collection, explaining, “I need to put my affairs in order.” She emphasized the challenging nature of this decision, acknowledging the deep connection she still feels to Mercury, stating, “I miss the fun, the humour, his warmth, his energy.”
The auction is scheduled for September, following a summer exhibition at Sotheby’s, where fans can view the collection in a series of specially designed galleries. Expected to generate over £6 million, a portion of the proceeds will be directed to charitable causes, further cementing Mercury’s legacy in both music and philanthropy.
