A Kramer electric guitar that once belonged to Eddie Van Halen is set to be auctioned at Sotheby’s New York this October. Experts expect bids to reach between $2 million and $3 million during the first-ever “Grails Week” event.
This black-and-white striped guitar is inspired by Van Halen’s famous “Frankenstrat” design. It first hit the stage during the 1982 Hide Your Sheep Tour. Van Halen personally modified the guitar at Kramer’s factory in New Jersey. Photos show him using an electric drill to make his own adjustments.
Eddie Van Halen later gifted the guitar to his technician, Robin “Rudy” Leiren, with a note that read: “Rude — It’s Been a Great Ten Years — Let’s Do Another Ten. Eddie Van Halen.” The guitar eventually made its way to Mick Mars of Mötley Crüe when Leiren passed it on. Mars used it while recording the band’s 1984 album, “Dr. Feelgood.”
The auction will include a letter of authenticity from Mars, which states: “Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Also, it’s a great piece of history.”
Just last year, another Van Halen guitar, the one featured in the “Hot for Teacher” music video, sold for a whopping $3,932,000.
Starting October 21, this iconic guitar will be on display, complete with full documentation and Mars’ letter confirming its history. Don’t miss your chance to see a piece of rock history!
