The iconic Kurt Cobain Unplugged exhibition at the Royal College of Music Museum in London is nearing its final days, and with it, your last opportunity to own a piece of rock history: one of Cobain’s original guitar picks used during Nirvana’s legendary MTV Unplugged performance.
This rare Dunlop 60mm plectrum was discovered in the case of Cobain’s Martin D-18E guitar, which was purchased at auction in 2020 for a record-breaking $6.01 million USD by RØDE Founder Peter Freedman AM. The guitar currently serves as the centerpiece of the exhibition, and now the plectrum becomes the focus of a global prize draw, with entries open worldwide for just £5 per entry.
All proceeds will directly support the Royal College of Music’s Future Music Fund, an initiative empowering the next generation of musicians from diverse backgrounds to shape the future of music.
True to his promise, Mr. Freedman has ensured that Cobain’s guitar has not been locked away in a private collection but has instead become a symbol of inspiration and support for the global creative community. “When I purchased this guitar, my intention was to have it begin a worldwide tour of exhibitions to support performing artists,” he said. “I wanted it to be seen, to inspire, and to give back to the creative community that helped shape my life. Its inclusion in this exhibition has honoured that intention, and I’m delighted that it has been realised at the Royal College of Music, an institution incredibly close to my heart.”
The Kurt Cobain Unplugged exhibition, running until November 18, 2025, has drawn thousands of visitors to experience the story behind one of music’s most iconic performances. At its heart is Cobain’s Martin D-18E guitar, alongside other legendary artifacts, including Cobain’s olive-green mohair cardigan from the MTV Unplugged performance. This exhibition marks the first time these items have been displayed together, offering fans a deeply personal glimpse into the artistry and legacy of Kurt Cobain and Nirvana.
Entries for the plectrum prize draw are open now and will close on November 18, 2025, the final day of the exhibition. Unlimited entries are allowed, and every £5 entry directly supports the Royal College of Music’s Future Music Fund.
Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of rock history and support the future of music. Enter the prize draw now and help shape the next generation of musical talent.
For more information and to enter the prize draw, visit the Royal College of Music's official website.
Exhibition Dates:
June 3rd – November 18th, 2025
Royal College of Music Museum, Prince Consort Road, London
