With the Kurt Cobain Unplugged exhibition at London’s Royal College of Music Museum entering its final weeks, RØDE Founder Peter Freedman AM is giving fans one last chance to own a unique piece of rock history: one of Kurt Cobain’s original guitar plectrums, used during Nirvana’s legendary MTV Unplugged performance.

This rare Dunlop 60mm pick was discovered in the case of Cobain’s iconic Martin D-18E guitar, which Freedman purchased at auction in 2020 for a record-breaking $6.01 million (USD). The guitar currently serves as the centrepiece 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,” said Mr Freedman. “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 artefacts, 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. Curated by Alan di Perna and Gabriele Rossi Rognoni, the exhibition has been a celebration of music’s power to transcend generations and genres.