Epic Auction of Eddie Van Halen’s Legendary Gear Set to Rock the Music World
A remarkable collection of Eddie Van Halen’s iconic instruments and equipment is set to be auctioned off later this year, heralded as “the ultimate Van Halen guitar auction.” This event promises to be a treasure trove for fans and collectors alike.
Curated by the Best
The auction features contributions from Zeke Clark, Eddie’s long-time guitar technician, alongside a devoted superfan, Nick D’Andrea. The lineup includes a variety of electric guitars, alongside some unique and unusual items, with total sales expected to exceed one million dollars.
Highlighting the Guitars
Leading the auction are two customized 5150 Kramers from 1986 and 1987. The earlier model is touted as “a coveted relic from the zenith of Van Halen’s stadium-rock era.”
Both guitars are equipped with a Floyd Rose tremolo system featuring a D-Tuna, a single bridge humbucker, and the signature striped design. They also come with some of Eddie’s guitar picks from the 5150 tour, and intriguingly, one even has a stage-used cigarette lodged beneath the low E string on the headstock.
These guitars were integral to the band’s first three albums with Sammy Hagar: 5150, OU812, and For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge.
more Iconic instruments
From Eddie’s Ernie Ball period, a Translucent Gold-finished EVH model used between 1993 and 2002 will also be available. This guitar is signed by the Van halen brothers, former bassist Michael Anthony, and all three of their vocalists: David Lee Roth, Sammy Hagar, and gary Cherone.
This instrument features zebra-style twin humbuckers, a maple fretboard, and another dive-bomb-friendly Floyd Rose. Its well-worn condition reflects Eddie’s heavy reliance on it during tours.
Unique Memorabilia
Additionally, an EVH-branded wolfgang from 2012 will be auctioned, which was gifted to D’Andrea to celebrate his 400th live concert attendance. this guitar was signed by the band after Eddie used it on stage.
Amplifiers and Accessories
The auction will also showcase three Marshall JMP Mk 2 tube amplifiers from 1977, 1980, and 1986, along with a 1960s Sears Silvertone 1465 head and cabinet, which was utilized to record Finish What Ya Started.A striped drill used by Eddie to perform Poundcake in the mid-’90s will also be included.
Among the stompboxes, expect to find a 2004 Jim Dunlop signature Phase 90, a 2006 EVH Flanger, and stage-used picks from the 1991-’92 and 1995 tours, offering a more understated yet significant option for collectors.
Rare Collectibles
For those interested in personal memorabilia,a pair of signed sneakers worn by Eddie is currently listed for $2,000.
Other Notable Items
Beyond Eddie’s gear, the auction features a 1988 Aria Pro II Integra bass owned by Michael Anthony, a used Ludwig drum kit, and a microphone utilized by David Lee Roth between 2007 and 2008.
Auction Details
This exciting auction is being organized by Backstage Auctions and will run until August 8. For more details, visit Backstage Auctions.
In the News
in related news, Sammy Hagar has reached out to David Lee Roth in a surprising show of support following the recent cancellation of his tour, while Steve Vai has praised the quality of Eddie’s unreleased music catalog.
