Some musical instruments become special because of the songs played on them — and Kurt Cobain’s acoustic guitar from Nirvana’s 1993 MTV Unplugged performance is one of the most famous examples. This guitar wasn’t just part of a concert; it became a symbol of Cobain’s emotional, unforgettable performance, recorded only six months before his tragic death. Today, that same guitar is starting a brand-new chapter that will allow fans around the world to see it up close again.
In this blog, let’s take a simple look at the story of this iconic guitar — where it came from, who bought it, and where it is going next.
A Guitar That Became History
During the 1993 MTV Unplugged show, Kurt Cobain used a Martin D-18E acoustic guitar. It was already a rare instrument, but what made it truly special was its connection to one of Nirvana’s most memorable performances. Many fans consider the Unplugged show one of the most emotional and powerful live sessions ever recorded.
After Cobain’s passing, the guitar stayed in his family for many years. His daughter, Frances Bean Cobain, originally had ownership of it. But in 2018, after a divorce settlement, the guitar went to her ex-husband, Isaiah Silva.
The Record-Breaking Sale
In 2020, the guitar was put up for sale at Julien’s Auctions, where it instantly made headlines. Peter Freedman, the founder of RØDE Microphones, purchased it for over $6 million — setting a brand-new world record for the most expensive guitar ever sold.
Freedman didn’t buy the guitar to lock it away in a private room. Instead, he said he wanted it to help support the arts and young musicians. His goal was to make sure the guitar could continue inspiring people instead of sitting in a private collection.
A Historic Donation
Now, that dream is becoming reality. Peter Freedman has donated Kurt Cobain’s guitar to the Royal College of Music (RCM). This is a big moment for music history, as the guitar will now become part of a new touring exhibition planned to begin in 2026.
Freedman said he wanted the guitar to “reach people around the world” and help young musicians. He even dedicated the gift to his father, Henry, who loved music and loved London.
The Royal College of Music’s director, James Williams, shared his gratitude, saying that this gift opens up new opportunities to bring Cobain’s story and legacy to international audiences.
Where the Guitar Goes Next
The Royal College of Music is already preparing a new exhibition built around the guitar. If everything goes as planned, this special display will begin touring in 2026. Fans from different countries may get the chance to see the famous instrument up close, along with other items related to Cobain and the Unplugged performance.
This means the guitar will continue to live on — not just as an expensive collector’s item, but as a piece of musical history that people can learn from and be inspired by.
Final Thoughts
Kurt Cobain’s Martin D-18E guitar has had a long and emotional journey — from the stage of MTV Unplugged, to a record-breaking sale, and now to a public exhibition that aims to support future musicians. It is more than wood and strings; it is a reminder of Cobain’s artistry, vulnerability, and impact on music.