This is only a preview. The auction will open on: 10/28/2026 1:00:00 PM
Offered Here: Van Halen 1972-1973 Mammoth Extremely Rare Early Images CD-R With COA
Item Details: A true holy grail for rock history collectors, this single CD-R features an incredibly rare, comprehensive archive documenting the pre-Van Halen era of the band under their original name, Mammoth. Sourced directly from the personal collection of original bassist Mark Stone, the disc contains 124 mostly unpublished, intimate photos captured by Wiley Greg, meticulously organized into rehearsal, studio, and early concert folders alongside two text files. The CD-R is in very good condition, though immediate digital transfer for preservation is recommended to safeguard this unparalleled piece of rock history. Due to the age of the original negatives, a very small number of images show minor discoloration or white artifacts, and some photos repeat across folders. This lot offers a single CD-R sold strictly as memorabilia; no negatives are included, and the purchase does not transfer, imply, or guarantee any intellectual property rights of any kind.
Provenance / Authenticity: This lot originates directly from the personal collection of Mark Stone, a multi-talented artist who was the original bass player and backing vocalist for Mammoth and Van Halen from 1972 to 1974 and an accomplished luthier. As a foundational figure in the band's legendary early history, Stone performed on their seminal studio demos and extended his creative contributions by designing the iconic original band logo utilized by Mammoth and early Van Halen. Offered directly from his estate, these historic items will be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity signed by an authorized representative of the Stone estate.
Mammoth was the Pasadena band formed by brothers Eddie and Alex Van Halen in the early 1970s, with Eddie initially handling lead vocals as well as guitar before David Lee Roth joined and the group adopted the Van Halen name. Playing backyard parties, high school dances and Southern California clubs, the band built the local following and stage experience that led to a Warner Bros. contract and their 1978 debut album, which became one of the best-selling debut records in rock history. Eddie Van Halen's two-handed tapping and inventive approach to tone and technique went on to reshape rock guitar playing, and Van Halen was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.
Condition: This single CD-R is in very good condition, though an immediate digital transfer to secondary storage is highly recommended to ensure long-term preservation. Due to the age of the original negatives, a small number of images exhibit minor discoloration or white artifacts from missing data. This lot includes the CD-R only; no physical negatives are present. All images are sold strictly as memorabilia, and this purchase does not transfer, imply, or guarantee any intellectual property rights of any kind.