1963 Fender Stratocaster Black - owned by Kirk Hammett - From the MILLESIME COLLECTION - serial L17218

FROM THE MILLESIME COLLECTION

Offered for sale is a highly desirable late 1963 Fender Stratocaster featuring an exceptionally rare, factory-applied custom color Black finish over Sunburst. This stunning instrument dates from November 1963 and is beautifully complemented by a classic "green" celluloid pickguard and period-correct clay dots on the fretboard.

Beyond its rarity as a factory custom color Stratocaster, this very guitar possesses true rock history. It was previously owned by the legendary Kirk Hammett of Metallica, who acquired and used it during a pivotal era in the band's career, right between the release of the mythical "Black Album" and the recording of "Load." Kirk later parted with the guitar in 1997 through a trade deal with the well-known dealer Rick King. The original trade deal receipt and full supporting documentation are included in the sale to secure its airtight provenance.

During the "Load" recording sessions, the guitar was captured in an iconic photoshoot by photographer Mark Leialoha at The Plant Studios in Sausalito, California. This historic session was famously published in Kerrang! magazine, and a vintage copy of the magazine is included with the instrument. Preserved exactly as it left the studio, the included 1959 brown Tolex case is still fitted with the original tour organization tags and handwritten tape labels used by the band to identify the guitar on the road.

THE KIRK HAMMETT STRATOCASTER

This beautiful instrument stands as a true testament to its era and its legendary previous owner. To preserve its historical integrity, the guitar has been left exactly as it was when Kirk used it. This includes the professional shielding paint application and minor electronic upkeep performed by Hammett's personal luthier during his ownership.

CONDITION & INTEGRITY

The guitar remains in excellent, original condition. It retains its vibrant factory Black over Sunburst finish and original celluloid pickguard. Alterations are minimal and strictly tied to its history as a working artist's instrument, consisting of a changed volume pot, a small structural route under the pickguard, and the aforementioned professional shielding paint inside the cavity. The guitar comes complete with its historic 1959 brown Tolex case and all of the original Metallica-era case trimmings.

COLLECTOR'S NOTE

This is far more than a rare vintage Fender; it is a museum-grade piece of heavy rock history. Opportunities to own a documented instrument played by a member of Metallica during their absolute peak studio years are virtually nonexistent. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the serious investor or collector.

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No returns on second-hand consigned goods unless incorrectly described.

24 hours approval period to verify the goods correspondency. Pictures are integral part of the listing description.

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