It's one of the rarest electric bass instruments in the world, and was used in the creation of one of the most iconic albums made by the Beatles.

Th Beatles Story in Liverpool announced that the Hofner 60th Anniversary Violin Bass is to go on display at the civic owned museum on the Liverpool waterfront dedicated to the Liverpool pop band.

The bass, designed by Klaus Voormann, the artist behind the Beatles' Revolver album, is to make its debut at the museum to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the release of the famous album. Its exhibition also marks the start of International Beatles Week, which runs from August 24 and August 30 and sees thousands of fans of the band from across the world converge on the city.

The artwork on the limited edition Hofner bass features a stunning black and white finish, reflecting the monochrome style of the Revolver album record sleeve.

The rare instrument will be on show at the world famous visitor attraction for a year. Voormann is to make a personal appearance in front of a public audience on August 28 as part of the Beatles' week celebrations.

Martin King of the Beatles Story said: "This instrument is a stunning piece of musical history, which we are delighted to have on display at The Beatles Story. The level of detail in the piece, which has also been personally signed by Klaus Voormann, is phenomenal."

Klaus Voormann, now 78, first met the Beatles, when they played an historic gig in Hamburg, Germany, over 50 years ago. He quickly became part of the band's inner circle, and joined the Plastic Ono Band, created by Beatles' legend John Lennon and his Japanese wife Yoko Ono.

Speaking of his upcoming trip to the city and his visit to The Beatles Story, Klaus Voormann said: "This is a truly wonderful bass with so much musical history attached. The timing couldn't be better either, as this month marks the 50th anniversary since the release of Revolver. I am also pleased that it will be on display in time for Beatleweek, which will give some of the band's most dedicated fans an opportunity to take a closer look."

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