A life-size statue of John Lennon in Penny Lane is set to be sold at auction.
The bronze sculpture has been stationed outside St Barnabas Church on the same road as the title of the iconic Beatles song since August 2022.
It was originally due to stay in position for a six-month installation but was extended, having previously been displayed at the city’s St George’s Hall.
But the ‘Peace Statue’ by the late artist Laura Lian, which features the word ‘Imagine’ on a peace symbol, is set to go under the hammer later this month.
Omega Auctions will put the piece up for auction on September 29 with an estimate of between £70,000 and £100,000 for the bespoke artwork.
The sale, which arose following Lian’s death in 2024, will see the original statue removed in its current location and replaced with a permanent replica.
Dan Muscatelli-Hampson, director of operations and consignments, said: “There can be few modern Beatles landmarks in Liverpool that have become so instantly recognisable in such a short space of time.
“Thousands of Beatles fans from around the world have stood next to John and had their photograph taken with this statue on Penny Lane.
“This is a unique opportunity to acquire the original artwork behind what has become a much-loved part of Liverpool’s Beatles story, while the casting of a replica means Laura Lian’s vision and message of peace can continue to be enjoyed on Penny Lane for years to come.”