One of Eddie Van Halen’s legendary guitars is hitting the auction block this September. The 1982 Kramer Electric guitar, inspired by his famous “Frankenstein” guitar, features the iconic black-and-white stripe design that fans know and love. This guitar was played by Eddie on tour in 1982 and 1983.
What makes this guitar even more special is Eddie’s signature on it, along with a personal note to his guitar tech, Rudy Leiren, saying, “Rude – Its Been a Great Ten Years – Lets Do Another Ten. Eddie Van Halen.” The back of the headstock is marked with “#1 Edward Van Halen Model.”
After Eddie, the guitar was sold to Mötley Crüe guitarist Mick Mars, who used it for several recordings, including their 1989 album, Dr. Feelgood. It comes with a case and a note from Mars that reads, “hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Also it’s a great piece of history.”
This guitar will be part of Sotheby’s Grails Week, a celebration of popular culture, happening at Sotheby’s New York from September 22 to October 28. The auction for Van Halen’s guitar starts on September 24 at 12 p.m. ET, with an estimated sale price between $2 million and $3 million. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of rock history!
