In a rare chance to own a piece of rock history, Kurt Cobain’s 1969 Fender Competition Mustang will be auctioned at Christie’s New York in March 2026. As part of Jim Irsay’s renowned collection, the instrument is projected to fetch $2.5–$5 million, according to Christie’s Global President Alex Rotter.
“Kurt Cobain and his music defined a generation,” said Alex Rotter. “His impact continues to inspire and permeate our culture. It is such a privilege to offer a beautiful portrait that pays tribute to his genius, and the guitar that he used to write the soundtrack of so many of our lives. We are looking forward to inviting the public in to see the guitar next year, along with the rest of Jim Irsay’s incredible collection.”
The History of the ‘Teen Spirit’ Mustang
Kurt Cobain acquired the teal 1969 Fender Competition Mustang from Lloyd Chaite at Voltage Guitars in Los Angeles around 1990–1991. He played this guitar extensively during the recording of Nirvana’s albums “Nevermind” and “In Utero,” performed with it live during the band’s peak years, and famously wielded it in the “Smells Like Teen Spirit” music video.
Featured on MTV’s “100 Greatest Music Videos Ever Made,” the gym‑set “Smells Like Teen Spirit” clip has surpassed 2 billion YouTube views and is Spotify’s 76th most‑played song of all time.
Cobain’s Favorite Instrument
“I’m left-handed, and it’s not very easy to find reasonably priced, high-quality left-handed guitars. But out of all the guitars in the whole world, the Fender Mustang is my favorite,” Cobain said of the instrument in his final interview with Guitar World.
Auction Details
The guitar will be available for public viewing at gallery exhibits in New York City by Christie’s prior to the sale. Ready to own a piece of Nirvana’s legacy? Remember, back in 2019, Kurt Cobain’s iconic 1993 cardigan sold for a whopping $334,000—making this auction an unmissable opportunity for collectors.
Related: Kurt Cobain’s Legendary Takamine Guitar From 1991 Hilversum Session Goes to Auction
