Billion-Dollar Collection of Late Colts Owner Jim Irsay Set for Christie's Auction in March 2026

The extensive collection of artifacts amassed by the late Indianapolis Colts owner, Jim Irsay, is heading to auction. Following Irsay's death in May at the age of 65, his family has decided to liquidate a substantial portion of the holdings, which carry an estimated value exceeding one billion dollars. This monumental sale marks the conclusion of an era for a collection that Irsay himself famously described not merely as an accumulation of wealth or trophies, but rather as a profound "repository of human creativity."

The prestigious international auction house Christie's has officially confirmed that the highly anticipated sale is scheduled to take place in March 2026. Jim Irsay, who passed away earlier this year, left behind a vast personal fortune estimated at more than four billion dollars. His professional and private life was defined by two primary, consuming passions: his dedication to the NFL franchise and his commitment to historical collecting. Irsay had been the principal owner of the Colts since 1997, having inherited control of the team following the death of his father.

The lots expected to draw intense global interest span multiple fields, including several iconic pieces of sporting history and significant historical documents. Among the highlights is the championship belt worn by legendary boxer Muhammad Ali during his pivotal 1974 "Rumble in the Jungle" bout against George Foreman. Also featured is the saddle utilized by Secretariat, the famed thoroughbred racehorse and Triple Crown winner, a relic revered by racing enthusiasts. The sheer value placed on these items is underscored by the fact that Irsay previously declined a staggering private offer of $1.15 billion for the entire collection, steadfastly maintaining that the artifacts were, in fact, priceless cultural assets.

The core of the collection is anchored by unparalleled musical relics, representing some of the most important instruments in rock history. These include the acoustic guitar played by Kurt Cobain in the iconic "Smells Like Teen Spirit" music video, an instrument Irsay acquired for a reported six million dollars. Another centerpiece is the highly sought-after 1968 Fender Stratocaster once owned by Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour. Beyond music, the collection boasts rare literary artifacts, such as the original typewritten manuscript of Jack Kerouac’s seminal novel, "On the Road." Furthermore, the sale includes crucial historical documents bearing the original signatures of founding fathers George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, offering a tangible link to American history.

Jim Irsay’s three daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—will retain a selection of items with deep personal and familial significance, ensuring that some cherished pieces remain within the family. Crucially, the substantial proceeds generated from the sale are earmarked for charitable endeavors. These funds will specifically support addiction treatment programs linked to the Colts foundation, reflecting the family's philanthropic goals. Given the immense scale and profound historical importance of the artifacts being offered, this auction is set to be one of the most closely watched events in the world of collecting for decades, cementing Jim Irsay's legacy as a custodian of history.