The upcoming Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar auction has the rock world buzzing. This iconic red, black, and white Kramer, modeled after Van Halen’s legendary “Frankenstein” guitar, is expected to sell for between $2 million and $3 million when it hits the block this October.
A Guitar with Rock and Roll History
Eddie Van Halen played the instrument throughout 1982 and 1983 during the band’s Hide Your Sheep Tour, supporting Diver Down. Fans may remember seeing it onstage in Philadelphia, Caracas, Sao Paulo, and Buenos Aires.
The Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar auction is part of Sotheby’s “Rock & Pop” sale during Grails Week, running October 21–28. The guitar is expected to be the headline item, drawing interest from collectors around the world.
From Van Halen to Motley Crue
After years in Eddie’s hands, the guitar went to his ’80s guitar tech Rudy Leiren, who later sold it to Motley Crue’s Mick Mars. Mars played the guitar extensively while recording Dr. Feelgood in 1989.
Included in the Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar auction lot is the original Kramer case and a letter of authenticity from Mars himself, stating:
“… Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Also, it’s a great piece of history.”
Personal Touches from Eddie Van Halen
What makes this auction piece even more valuable is Eddie’s inscription on the body:
“Rude – It’s Been a Great Ten Years – Let’s Do Another Ten. Eddie Van Halen.”
These personal markings ensure that the Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar auction is more than a sale — it’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of rock history with direct ties to one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
A Record-Breaking Legacy
This isn’t the first time a Van Halen guitar has made headlines. In 2023, the custom Kramer from the “Hot for Teacher” video sold for $3.9 million, setting a benchmark for high-value rock memorabilia.
Collectors and fans alike are watching closely to see if the Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar auction will break that record.
People Also Ask: Eddie Van Halen Kramer Guitar Auction
When is the Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar auction?
The Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar auction will take place during Sotheby’s “Rock & Pop” sale in Grails Week, running from October 21–28, 2025.
How much is Eddie Van Halen’s Kramer guitar expected to sell for?
The guitar in the Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar auction is estimated to fetch between $2 million and $3 million.
Why is the Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar valuable?
Its value comes from being played by Eddie Van Halen during the 1982–1983 Hide Your Sheep Tour, later owned and used by Motley Crue’s Mick Mars, and featuring Eddie’s personal inscription.
Where can I bid on the Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar?
Bids for the Eddie Van Halen Kramer guitar auction can be placed through Sotheby’s official website during the auction dates.
Has a Van Halen guitar sold for more before?
Yes. In 2023, Eddie Van Halen’s custom Kramer from the “Hot for Teacher” video sold for $3.9 million.
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Source: Ultimate Classic Rock
