Nirvana enthusiasts have a rare opportunity to own a piece of rock history. Kurt Cobain’s white Fender Stratocaster, infamously smashed during the band’s 1992 European tour, will be up for auction this Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
The bidding will begin at 9:00 a.m. US time on the GottaHaveRockAndRoll platform, with a starting price of $30,000. This Stratocaster, which was repaired mid-tour while promoting Nevermind, holds immense historical significance in the world of rock music.
The authenticity of this instrument has been confirmed by renowned guitar technician Big John Duncan, who also authenticated Cobain’s 1969 blue Fender Mustang. That Mustang, which appeared in the iconic “Smells Like Teen Spirit” music video, was sold for €500,000 in 2023. The white Stratocaster, however, is celebrated for its role in Nirvana’s electrifying live performances, adding to its legendary status.
The auction date coincides with the 31st anniversary of Cobain’s death on April 5, 1994. Cobain, aged 27, tragically took his own life with a shotgun, leaving behind a suicide note and a heroin kit at the scene. While the official cause of death was ruled a suicide, some fans and investigators, including Tom Grant, have raised theories suggesting foul play, pointing to substances in his system. However, the suicide ruling remains intact.
This iconic Stratocaster is more than just a relic; it embodies Cobain’s raw, chaotic genius. With bidding expected to intensify, this guitar joins a growing list of high-value Nirvana memorabilia, offering collectors and fans an extraordinary connection to the short but impactful career of the grunge legend.
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