Category Archives: AUCTIONS / MEMORABILIA

Results of the First 2013 Elvis Auction

Posted on April 14, 2013 by | 3 Comments

Bidding on the first significant assortment of Elvis memorabilia this year closed on March 30.  The Heritage Auctions “Entertainment and Music Memorabilia Auction” held in Dallas contained forty varied items for Elvis collectors.  Here are some I liked.

Personal Rotary Phone in Wooden Box:

Portable Phone

This rotary phone attracted eleven bidders, the most of any Elvis item in the auction, and they bid the price up to $16,250, nearly eight times the pre-bid estimate.  Elvis used the phone in his Beverly Hills home in the early 1970s.  Apparently, there were lots of Memphis Mafia buddies around, because he printed a warning inside the cover for them not to use the phone.

Close up of personal note on phone box

Elvis had his Kenpo Karate decal put on top of the wooden box.  He also had it put on one of his guitars.

Portable Phone Box

This item did not come with any photos of Elvis using the phone, but it did come with a letter of authenticity from Charlie Hodge.

 

Elvis Presley Signed High School Yearbook The Herald 1953:

Yearbook

Copies of the 1953 The Herald yearbook from Elvis’ senior year at Humes High School show up at auction fairly regularly.  The last copy to surface was sold in August 2010 at the Ultimate Elvis Auction held in Memphis by Heritage Auction Galleries.  The top bid was $7,170.

Heritage offered another Elvis yearbook this year, and they hyped it up because the original owner was by all accounts the most popular girl in Elvis’ class, Gloria Carmeen.  The auction website description stated she was Miss Humes, Captain of the Cheerleaders, and a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council, and several other organizations.  Elvis wrote “best of luck to a very pretty girl – remember me.”

Unfortunately, this copy of The Herald shows some wear at the top and bottom of the spine, and at the tips of the covers’ corners, and the pages are partially loose from the cover.  Quality counts for Elvis collectors and this yearbook sold for $4,375, well below the pre-auction estimate.

 

Tan Suede Coat:

Tan Suede Coat

Based on the amount of wear it had, this coat was probably one of Elvis’ favorites.  In addition to some worn areas and minor stains, is missing its label, and the inner lining is torn in one small area.  On top of that, there is no photo of Elvis wearing it, so it’s no surprise it brought only $2,500, about half of the pre-auction estimate.  Elvis gave this well-worn suede coat to Sunny West, who supplied a LOA.

 

Elvis Presley Complete Sun Singles Set:

Five Sun 45s

It’s fairly easy to find a copy of an Elvis record on the Sun label, but a complete set of all five is a rare find.    Especially if they all grade out from VG-EX 6 (very good- excellent) to NM 8 (near mint).  Collectors of Elvis records bid this top quality set up to $4,687, including the auction’s buyer’s fee.   As the auction website proclaimed, “This is the stuff of legend.”

 

Gold and Diamond Ring:

Gold and Diamond Ring

We’ve watched the prices for Elvis’ rings drop since the economic shutdown started in 2008, but it appears that things are coming back pretty good.  This 14k gold ring with a seven-diamond cluster sold for $15,000.  The price was certainly boosted by the inclusion of a photo of Elvis wearing it on stage.

Gold and Diamond Ring - Wearing

The auction website said Elvis wore the ring before giving it to his cousin Patsy Presley in 1974.  At some point, it seems she would rather have the cash, because she prepared the LOA that accompanied the ring at this auction.

 

Star Ruby and Diamond Ring:

Star Ruby and Diamond Ring

Here’s the second Elvis ring in the auction.  This one is understated, but the10K yellow gold band is crowned by a star ruby, accented on either side by small diamonds.  The ring went for $9,062.  In December, 1976, while a guest of Sam Thompson (the brother of Elvis’ girlfriend Linda) Elvis took the ring from his own middle finger and gave it to Sam as a bonus following a ten-day engagement at the Las Vegas Hilton. According to Thompson, Elvis claimed to have gotten the ring when he visited a spiritual center in Los Angeles which had been founded by Hindu holy man Paramahansa Yogananda.  Sam Thompson provided a Letter of Authenticity.

 

Motorcycle Belt:

Motorcycle Belt

If you ever wondered where Elvis got the inspiration for his huge, ornate jumpsuit belts, maybe this is it.  The 32″ waist identifies this black leather motorcycle belt as probably from the early to mid-1960s.  The triple-buckle side is 5.5 inches high, and the decorated part is over seven inches high.  If you thought the decorated side would be the front, the low-res photograph of Elvis wearing the belt shows the buckles in front.

Motorcycle Belt - wearing

Elvis gave the belt to his longtime hairdresser Homer Gilleland, who supplied a LOA for the auction.  Bidding topped at $4,375.

 

Suede Jacket:

Suede Jacket

The three-part ElvisBlog series on Elvis’ Circle G Ranch showed him wearing several western jackets, but not this one.  And, although this suede jacket wasn’t pictured in those articles, it was worn by Elvis during the colder months after he first bought the ranch.  Believe it or not, it actually came from Sears.  This might seem strange for someone who purchased custom made clothes from big-name stores in Las Vegas, Palm Springs, and Hollywood.  However, when Elvis bought the ranch, he set out on shopping sprees to a nearby Sears store to buy ranch equipment.  While there, this jacket must have caught his eye.

Elvis Wearing Suede Jacket

This photo shows Elvis wearing the jacket while doing something strange – maybe playing with a Roman candle.  He later gave the jacket to close friend Charlie Hodge, who provided a Letter of Authenticity.  The jacket went for $13,125, nearly five times the pre-auction estimate.

 

Long Sleeved Sport Shirt:

Long Sleeved Sport Shirt

Here’s quite a distinctive but strange shirt. It bears a Nik-Nik label, and is a size Large.  As was the case with much clothing in the wild ’60s-’70s era, the shirt had an unusual color scheme, gray toward the top and cream below, a vivid rainbow stripe, and the image of a striking woman on the upper right side. This is the second item of clothing Elvis gave to Sonny West that showed up in this auction.  In his LOA, West stated that the woman’s face bore a striking resemblance to Judy Garland.  Unfortunately, the auction photo has the collar covering most of the face.  Although the shirt is in very fine shape, it topped out at $1,625, about two-thirds of the pre-auction estimate.

Long Sleeve Shirt image close-up

 

Patent Leather Boots:

Patent Leather Boots

Not only did Elvis give away his shirts, coats and rings to Memphis mafia buddies, he apparently gave away his footwear to them, as well.  Charlie Hodge was the recipient of these black patent leather boots with soft leather inside.  Neither man must have worn them much, because the quality was listed as Fine to Very Fine.

Patent Leather Boots - wearing

A photo of Elvis wearing the boots and a Letter of Authenticity from Hodge attracted spirited bidding, and the bid went to $10,000 compared to an estimate of $1,000 – up.

 

Army Fatigue Shirt:

Army Fatigue Shirt

Back in July 2011, an Elvis Army fatigue shirt sold for $5,069 at a Gotta-Have-It auction, so I can’t figure out why this one went for $27,500, more than double the pre-auction estimate.  Admittedly, it is in better shape and has the Sergeant stripes and “Presley” name patch sewn in (the other had only the company patch and Elvis’ name stamped inside below the collar.  To the successful bidder here (out of just three) that must have made it worth an additional $21,000.  As with the diamond-cluster ring, Elvis gave the shirt to cousin Patsy Presley, and her LOA accompanied it at the auction.

 

©  2013    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net

 

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I Was Wondering What This Might Be Worth

Posted on January 26, 2013 by | 6 Comments

This blog started out as another report on Elvis memorabilia items sold recently at auction.  I’m still going to do that someday, but first I need to make a confession.

As a result of the ElvisBlog series of posts about Elvis autographs and memorabilia, many readers have written in Comments about an item they own and ask what it might be worth.  I certainly couldn’t tell them, because I’m not an expert.  So, I created a standard reply directing them to Jerry Osborne, noted Elvis collector, author and historian.   Jerry knows so much about Elvis records and collectibles that he has published an incredibly complete reference, Presleyana.

Preslyana VII

Over the years, Jerry has revised it seven times, and Presleyana VII now totals 384 pages.

My standard reply included Jerry’s website, his e-mail address and his phone number.   Unfortunately, I somehow got the wrong e-mail address, and no doubt frustrated many people when their attempts to e-mail Jerry went nowhere.  I am sorry about that.  For future reference, if you are trying to determine the value of an Elvis collectible, here are the ways to contact Jerry Osborne:

Website  jerryosborne.com
Phone number 360-385-1200
E-mail address JPO@olympus.net

Jerry and Barbara

Notice the gold TCB pendant around Jerry’s neck

Osborne Appraisals

Please note that appraisals are based on a photo and an e-mail description of the item provided by the inquirer.  There is a $10 charge for this general appraisal service.

 

Here are a few of the inquiries that have come in to ElvisBlog Comments.  You might find them interesting.

Elizabeth -  August  22, 2012

I was lucky enough to meet Elvis in the 60′s while he was making ‘Flaming Star’ and have a signed photo of him with me and my brother. I would like to now sell this item.  I would appreciate your expert advice on this matter as you seem to know so much about Elvis memorabilia!

Carl – January 10, 2013

I have a signed autograph guitar of Elvis Presley.  It’s about two and a half foot long.  I was told he passed them out at some concerts. It was dated 1975. I was wondering if you could tell me what it’s worth.

Jeremy – December 14, 2012

I am writing you to inquire about an oil painting I came across at my parent’s house. My mother worked for a concert venue and when Elvis was in town she got his autograph. The oil painting is of Elvis and is maybe 30 inches tall by 24 inches wide. He made out the autograph to my mother Patricia, and I believe it says Best Wishes to Patricia or something of that nature.  Do you have any idea of how much something like this is worth?

Linda – December 1, 2012

Since mother passed away, I have stacks and stacks of books, cards, promotional materials from Colonel Parker’s office and just about anything else you can think of pertaining to Elvis. I, personally, have a signed makeup towel used by Elvis on the set of Blue Hawaii that I won as a contest prize on American Bandstand in the 60′s. Where would the best auction be to find the buyers for these things? Thank you for any help you can give me.

Debbie – September 17, 2012

I have several scarves that were worn by Elvis at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas in the 70′s. Only one of them has his name on it. Do you know the value of these?

Sandra – August 29, 2012

I have an autographed 8X10 picture signed by Elvis Presley to me in the mid-50s in Tampa FL…….How can I sell it for $$$$$$$$$

Steve – June 19, 2012

In 1977 when Elvis was in hospital, my wife then 12 years old sent him a get well card. A few months later she received a card back from Graceland.  It was a thank you card and on the inside reads Thanks for remembering me during my illness. Signed Elvis Presley.  Can someone e-mail me with what this might be worth.

Tom Smith | August 18, 2012

I have a movie photo of all the dancers from the movie Jailhouse Rock. Elvis is in the photo with all the dancers and one of the dancers was my late uncle.  Everyone who performed in that scene including Elvis signed it.  Just wondering of what kind of monetary value something like this would be.

These inquiries can be grouped into three categories.  There are items without autographs like the books and promo items from Col. Parker’s office.  There are autographed items like the guitar and oil painting that probably have some intrinsic collectible value even without the autograph.  And there are the letters and photos where all or most of the value is derived from Elvis’ autograph.

For items in the last two categories, Jerry Osborne will provide appraisals based on the assumption the Elvis autographs are authentic.  He does not provide an autograph authentication service.  However, he has suggested that I revise my standard reply to include the best person he knows of to do this.

Rich Consola

In 1957, Rich Consola saw Elvis perform in Buffalo, New York. Elvis was wearing his famous Gold Lamé jacket that day and, since then, Rich has been a lifelong fan and collector. Rich has thoroughly studied Elvis’ handwriting and signature for over 20 years. Today, Rich Consola is considered one of the foremost authorities on Elvis autographs and is known worldwide for his exceptional knowledge.

I have corresponded with Rich Consola, and he has no problem with me referring folks to him.  If you have an Elvis autograph that you hope is authentic, but you’re not sure, he charges $25 for a simple authentication.  If you have a Elvis autograph you are sure about, and you would like to sell it at auction, you will need a Letter Of Authenticity (LOA).  Rich Consola can do that for $75.  Considering the prices paid for authenticated Elvis autographs at auctions the past few years, this is a small investment for a big pay-off.  To view the three ElvisBlog articles on Elvis autographs sold at auction, click here, here, and here.

 Rich Consola Photo

Rich Consola’s e-mail address is:

rfconsola@roadrunner.com

 

 

©  2013    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net

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So, How Much is an Elvis Autograph Worth? – Pt. 3

Posted on January 12, 2013 by | 15 Comments

The two ElvisBlog posts that generate the most comments are Part 1 and Part 2 of the continuing series So, How much is an Elvis Autograph Worth?  If anyone in possession of a signed photo, record album, or anything else Googles “Elvis Autographs,” ElvisBlog comes up third on the list.  However, a quick check shows that two higher ones do not report prices recently paid for Elvis signature items.  If you want a reference to approximate the value of your Elvis autograph, this is the place to come.

Fortunately, Heritage Auctions presented their Entertainment & Music Memorabilia Signature Auction in Dallas last December 14, and it contained nine Elvis autographs.  All prices below include the 25% buyers’ premium added on by the auction house.

 

Signed Color Print from 1965:   $625

Signed Color Print Plus Close-up

This oversized (20” x 16”) print of the original work by June Kelly depicts Elvis wearing a red jacket.  He signed it in blue ballpoint ink on the left center: “To Vicki / Love you allways / Elvis Presley.”  $625 seems like a low price for this piece.  It must be the water damage and other staining that turned people off.  When you blow up the image on the auction website, you can see blotches all over his jacket and one on his face.  There is also a streak coming down from his left eye where the water must have run.  What kind of fool lets a huge color autographed Elvis picture get rained on?  At least the inscription was not affected.

 

Signed International Hotel Keno Card, circa 1970:   $875

Signed Back of Keno Card and Front

According to Rich Consola who provided the third-party authentication for all the Elvis autographs in this auction, Elvis would go out into the casino from time to time during the Vegas days, with all his guys around him, and he was known to have signed autographs there.  Some lucky gambler named Joyce must have been at a Keno game when Elvis joined in, and she had the foresight to get the King’s signature on the back of a Keno card.  Too bad about the old Scotch Tape mark around the autograph.  That had to bring the price down some.

 

Signed Back of Check, Circa 1957:   $1,125

Signed Check 1957 Back

Signed Check 1957 front

This autograph did considerably better than the pre-auction estimate, and I’m not sure why.  It’s a good thing it came with a Certificate of Authenticity, because it looks a lot different than most Elvis autographs in this series.  He signed this personal check on the back in pencil “yours / Elvis Presley.” There is slight staining on the blow-up of the check, but the autograph is not affected.   The seller’s mother obtained this autograph in person when she saw Elvis at the Dallas Love Field Airport in 1956 or 1957.  The only thing she could find in her purse for him to sign was this torn-out check from the family checkbook.

 

Signed Loving You, Vol. II EP, 1957:   $1,187

Signed Loving You EP Front and Back

The next three items all originated from Buddy Ochoa, the first Elvis impersonator (according to the item description on the auction website).  For the full story on this, please check out the November 12, 2012 ElvisBlog article about Ochoa.  There is no mention of the condition of the album sleeve, but it does look pretty worn down at the corners.  Note that Elvis signed this extended play album once on the back, because we will compare it with the next two items.

Signed King Creole EP, circa 1958:   $1,625

 Elvis Presley Signed King Creole EP

Elvis signed the front of this EP album: “To Buddy, Elvis Presley”.   The album cover looks as worn at the corners as the previous one, and both have the same intrinsic value as unsigned albums.  So, why did it bring a price almost $500 higher?  Could it be that the signature is on the front?  It certainly will look better than the other when presented in a matted display.

 

Autographed Loving You EP and Photo Display:   $1,875

Autographed Loving You EP and Photo Display

This 20” by 30” display contains a lot of stuff, but most of it is of little value.  The photo is Buddy Ochoa and Elvis in 1958.  The shirt is similar to the one Elvis wore on the cover of the Blue Hawaii album.  That cover is partially visible behind other items and is unsigned.  The Loving You EP album cover is Vol. 1, and it is also unsigned.  So, that leaves the back cover of that EP, signed twice by Elvis.  It is unclear if the higher sell price of this item is due to the double Elvis signatures or to extra stuff and the nice display presentation.

 

Signed and Inscribed Spinout Promotional Photo, 1966:   $2,000

Elvis Presley Signed And Inscribed Spinout Promotional Photo 1966

This is a top-quality 12” by 12” color promotional photo showing Elvis wearing one of his outfits from the movie Spinout.  It is inscribed to Norman Taurog, the director of that movie and eight other films starring Elvis.  The winning bid was quite a bit higher than the pre-auction estimate.

Both Signatures on Spinout Promo Picture

It says, “To Mr. Norman Taurog.  My deep thanks for everything you have done for me.  With my deep respect.  Elvis Presley.”  It also says, “Thanks for everything.  Elvis Presley”  Look at those two signatures side by side.  They sure look different to me, but they both have been authenticated.  I need to do a little research to find out how that can be.

 

Signed Black and White Photograph, 1965:   $2,000

An Elvis Presley Signed Black and White Photograph, 1965

An original 10″ x 8″ print with a matte finish, depicting a classic headshot of Elvis from the early 60s, signed in green fountain pen ink in the lower right corner: “To Vicki / My Best allways / Elvis Presley.”

An Elvis Presley Signed Black and White Photograph, 1965 Recipient

This item was consigned directly to Heritage Auctions by the now adult Vicki Malkin, the former child actress who portrayed “Sari” the in 1965 M-G-M film, Harum Scarum, and who danced with Elvis as he sang ‘Hey Little Girl.’ Vicki remembers as a nine year-old having a big crush on Elvis and that he signed this photograph for her at the wrap party when the film was finished.

 

Signed Personal Check to Dick Grob, 1975:   $3,750

Elvis Presley Signed Personal Check to Dick Grob 1975

This check was the big winner at this Heritage auction, bringing in almost twice as much as the pre-auction estimate.  As you probably know, Dick Grob was the head of security for Elvis.  He must have done something special to get a $1,500 bonus after the July 1975 road tour (see note on left of check).  This is the first time I’ve seen an actual check drawn on his personal account, so they are probably very rare.  That probably added much to the value of this Elvis signature.

 

©  2012    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net

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The Ultimate Movie for Elvis Allusions

Posted on December 8, 2012 by | 4 Comments

For the past three years I have done an annual review of Elvis allusions in the movies.  Each time I explain that these allusions can be many different things:  like his name being used in dialog, or his image on video clips visible in a scene, or his songs playing in the background (or over the credits), or familiar Elvis trappings like jumpsuits and those famous sunglasses, or even his well-known moves and mannerisms.  But when it comes to Elvis images and memorabilia items used to decorate a room, there is one movie we must call the undisputed all-time champ.

It is Into the Night, which ran on one of the cable movie channels earlier this week.  This 1986 comedy/drama/romance stars Michelle Pheiffer and Jeff Goldblum.  They are sort-of on the run together, and she takes him to her brother’s apartment so they can hide out.  It turns out the brother is a successful Elvis impersonator, and his pad has wall-to-wall Elvis photos, albums, posters, and magazine covers.  Here are a few shots to give you an idea.

Then, the brother comes home – in costume.

 

Do you know who this actor is?  His name is Bruce McGill, and he has been in dozens of movies and TV shows over the past thirty-five years.  His break into the business was as “D-Day” in the cult classic Animal House.

 

He looks better in a jumpsuit and without the mustache, don’t you think?

So, add a white jumpsuit to the Elvis allusions in Into the Night.  But there is still one more.

As a famous Elvis impersonator, the brother travels around in a Cadillac convertible emblazoned with “The King Lives.”

Elvis never owned a 1959 Caddy convertible.  (He was in the Army over in Germany at the time.)  But this model seems so intrinsically Elvis, that Graceland has one in their Car Museum in spite of that little discrepancy.   Seriously, if I ever win the lottery, I want one of these.

And, if you want to watch a pretty good movie with lots of Elvis allusions, get Into the Night, and enjoy.

 

©  2012    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net

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Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

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A Tribute to Bernard Lansky

Posted on December 1, 2012 by | 5 Comments

On November 15, we lost another charter member of Elvis’ close circle of friends – Bernard Lansky.  All knowledgeable fans know that Elvis bought much of his 50s wardrobe from Lansky Brothers Clothing on Beale Street.  Most of the clothing was flashy and unconventional, perfect for a young singer making his mark.

 

Other Elvis websites have recounted details of the connection between Bernard Lansky and Elvis, so I wanted to do something different.  Let’s take a look at some of the clothing Elvis bought at Lansky Brothers and that has sold at auctions presented by Heritage Auctions and Gotta-Have-It Auctions the past few years.

 

“Super Fly” Style Leather Trench Coat Trimmed in Coyote Fur:

Sold for $4,608 at the Gotta-Have-It Rock & Roll Pop Culture Auction in July 2012.

Elvis took to wearing this type of coat after viewing the cult film, “Shaft.”

 

Light Blue Shirt and Dark Blue Corduroy Vest:

Sold for $5,156 at the Heritage Elvis Memorabilia Signature Auction in Memphis on August 14, 2012.

 

Black Velvet Shirt with Silver-and-Onyx Buttons:

Sold for $2,270 at the Heritage Signature Entertainment/Music Memorabilia Auction in April 2007.

Note the initials “EP” monogrammed on the cuffs.

 

Shirt, Pants and Jacket Combo:

Sold for $25,725 at the Gotta-Have-It Rock & Roll Auction in July 2011

This picture of Elvis wearing the outfit is on the back of his first RCA album, Elvis Presley.

 

Brown Suede Jacket with Tie Belt:

Sold for $4,182 at the Heritage Signature Music & Entertainment Memorabilia Auction in October 2008.

 

Black Short Sleeved Shirt:

Sold for $4,719 at the Gotta-Have-It Rock & Roll Pop Culture Auction in December 2011.

 

Light Brown Leather Jacket with Coyote Trim:

Sold for $3,808 at the Gotta-Have-It Rock & Roll Pop Culture Auction in March 2011.

 

Tan Suede Jacket:

Sold for $16,500 at the Gotta-Have-it Rock & Roll Pop Culture Auction in October 2010.

Elvis Presley wore this jacket in the famous December 4, 1956 photo of the “Million Dollar Quartet.”

 

Long Grey Trench Coat:

Sold for $6,283 at the Gotta-Have-It Rock & Roll Pop Art Auction in August 2009

Also sold for $12,187 at the Heritage Elvis Memorabilia Signature Auction in August 2012 in Memphis

 

Pink Shirt with Black Trim:

Sold for at the $2,662 at the Gotta-have-It Rock & Roll Pop Culture Auction in October 2010.

Also sold for $14,340 at the Heritage Music & Entertainment Signature Auction In December 2011.

Amazingly, Vernon Presley donated the shirt to the Salvation Army in 1974.

 

Pink Shirt, Black Pants with Pink Accents, and Black and White Shoes:

Sold for $4,000 at the Gotta-Have-it Rock & Roll Pop Culture Auction in October 2010.

Also sold for $19,717 at the Heritage Music & Entertainment Signature Auction in December 2011.

(Seems like if you have some cool Elvis clothes to sell, Heritage Auctions is the place to go.  On the other hand, if you’d like to buy some Elvis clothes at reasonable prices, check out Gotta-Have-It)

 

Custom Made Blue Leather Coat:

Currently at auction at the Heritage Rock & Roll Pop Culture Auction.

Estimate: $5000 – $7000.  My bet is that it goes for lots more.

 

We’ll end with some more photos of Elvis and Bernard Lansky.

Hey, that’s not Elvis!

 

©  2012    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net

 

 

Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

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Elvis, Shelly Fabares, and an Online Auction

Posted on November 9, 2012 by | 4 Comments

From time to time ElvisBlog receives e-mails about charity events that include some Elvis-related item for sale.  They ask if their worthy cause could be mentioned on the blog.  Well, we don’t really do announcements, so, unless there is some way to turn it into a full length article, I’m not able to help.

This week I received an e-mail from the Gulf Regional Advocacy Center, which I never heard of.  The message explains that they provide high quality legal representation for poor prisoners facing the death penalty in Texas and Louisiana.  I thought, “this is a real long shot,” but I read on.  It turns out they are having an online auction, including a signed lobby card from Elvis’ movie Spinout.  The e-mail included a picture of the item which piqued my interest, because the film’s title on it is California Holiday, not Spinout.

I knew California Holiday was the name used for the movie in several foreign countries, including England and Australia.

As you have seen in numerous ElvisBlog articles, I like to follow auctions of Elvis memorabilia and note what prices the items bring.  So, now I’m kind of interested in this charity auction, because this is a pretty rare Elvis lobby card.  Plus, it also has an extra kicker – it will be signed by Shelly Fabares, Elvis’ costar in Spinout.  I have always been a big Shelly Fabares fan and figured someday I’d do a blog article about her.  So, now is a good time to do it.

 

The folks at the Gulf Regional Advocacy Center sent me a current photo of Shelly, who is now 68.  The hair kind of set me back, so I Googled to see if there were other fairly recent photos of her without the multi-colored hair.  Not really.

Here she is with Mike Farrell, her husband of 28 years.  You remember him from playing B.J. Hunnicutt in Mash from 1975 to 1983.  It appears they both have been involved in many environmental and social causes over the years.

 

Shelly’s hair was curly, but not multi-colored in this photo taken at the 1991 Emmy Awards.  She starred on TV’s Coach from 1987 to 1993.

 

I liked her in Coach, but I really liked her in Clambake (1967).

 

And in Girl Happy (1966).

 

And, of course, in Spinout (1965).  These last two photos are from the movie with the foreign lobby card that sparked this article.

 

Shelly Fabares is the only actress to co-star with Elvis in three movies.  He must have enjoyed working with her.  She’s never written a tell-all book about her experiences with Elvis, but I’ll bet they’d be pretty good.

So, back to the internet auction for the benefit of the Gulf Regional Advocacy Center.  Bidding starts on November 12 and ends on November 17.

 

The opening bid for the Spinout lobby card is just $35, so, if the bidding doesn’t run way up, this could be a good bargain for any Elvis collector.  The lobby card is a rare international version using a different title, and it is signed by Shelly Fabares.  Because it is the only Elvis-related item in an eclectic collection of offerings, there probably won’t an army of dedicated Elvis collectors bidding on it.

By the way, the silent auction will also include items donated by George Lopez, Martin Lawrence, Joan Baez, Melissa Gilbert, Robert Greenwald, and Salman Rushdie.  Check it out here.

 

©  2012    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net

 

Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

 

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So, How Much is an Elvis Autograph Worth — Pt. 2

Posted on September 15, 2012 by | 3 Comments

When we took our first look at Elvis autographs two years ago, the auction prices ranged from $384 to $4,062.  There was also an autograph that went for $11,520, but it was on a shirt Elvis had worn, and four photographs of him in it were provided as verification.  Elvis’ clothing is in high demand, and almost none of it is autographed, so it’s not surprising that this item went for big bucks.

Today, we look at eleven Elvis autographs that changed hands at the Heritage Auctions’ Elvis Memorabilia Signature Auction held last month in Memphis during Elvis Week.  This time there were no low-end items such as signed napkins or loose torn-off bits of paper.  Also, most sellers were smart and offered their items in good-looking framed displays which always bring higher value.

It should be noted that each of these eleven autographs comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.   All values would have been less without it.

 

Two Back-to-Back Autographs:     $1,250

Sometime in the mid-50’s, a fan noticed Elvis in a small café eating cornbread and a bowl of chili.  The fan approached Elvis and asked for an autograph, but had no paper for it except his check book.  A check was sacrificed for the cause, and Elvis obliged by signing it on both sides – in pencil.

So how do you best display a two-sided autograph?  Add a nice color photograph and matting with cutouts on both sides to show the autographs.  It paid off for the owner, as the high bid was $1,250, including the auction premium.

 

Girls! Girls! Girls! LP:     $1,250

This is the first of two signed albums that sold at the auction, but the other carried a price more than double this one.  That difference is due to the inherent value of the albums as collectibles.  The Girls, Girl, Girls soundtrack album from 1962 is not considered anything special among Elvis record collectors, but with his autograph on it, the bidding topped at $1,312.  The jacket is signed in blue ballpoint ink in the lower right corner, “To Gary / Many Thanks for / all your help / E.P.”  Gary being Gary Pepper, an Elvis fan club president.

 

Publicity Photo:     $1,375

This is an 8” x 10” black-and-white photo given away at Elvis’ historic 1970 engagement at the Las Vegas International Hotel.  The signature in white is printed on the picture.  The valuable autograph is done in green marker on the guitar and says, “To Bobby, Love, Elvis Presley.”


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Autograph and Photo:     $1,650

This is just a 4” x 3.5” piece of lined tablet paper that Elvis signed in 1956.  However, it brought a good price because it has been nicely presented in a matted frame, and is accompanied by a framed 1955-56 era black-and-white photo of the King.

 

 

Tour Photo Album:     $1,625

This is a 16-page high quality 8.5″ x 11″ photo album with a great color photo of the King on the front.  It was included in the 1970 RCA release Elvis: Worldwide 50 Gold Award Hits Volume 1.  Elvis has signed at left in blue ballpoint: “To Darlene, Elvis Presley.”

 

Outstanding Young Men Program Book:     $2,375

Elvis and nine other men under the age of 35 were selected by the United States Jaycees as the Ten Outstanding Young Men of America for 1970.  In January, 1971, a ceremony was held in Memphis to honor them.  Elvis was present and made an acceptance speech.

72-page programs were produced for the event, and they have considerable intrinsic value as Elvis collectibles.  This copy’s worth is enhanced because it was autographed by Elvis in blue ink on page 23 in the margin next to his bio.

 

Black and White Snapshot:     $2,375

This is an original 3.5” x 5” photograph showing Elvis during his Fort Hood, Texas days standing among other soldiers in what appears to be an Army base facility. The date stamp on the right border (from when the photograph was developed) reads “May 1958,”  Elvis signed “Elvis Presley” on the back in blue ballpoint ink.  If the owner had taken the trouble to put it in a matted display with cut-outs to show both sides, it probably would have gone for more than $2,375.

 

Loving You Stereo LP:      $2750

This signed album cover has more value than the first one we looked at above because it is something of a rarity and is in excellent shape.  The original Loving You album was released in 1957 in Mono.  For some reason, RCA decided to re-release it in 1962 in Stereo, and distribution was limited.  Combine that with Elvis’ autograph and you have a big winner.

 

Guitar Case:     $5,000

This autographed hardshell acoustic guitar case has an interesting story.  Elvis loved to ride horses, and, in February 1967, he purchased a 163-acre ranch just across the Mississippi state line, naming it “Circle G” after Graceland.  Later that year, an auction was held to sell off some excess equipment along with a few personal belongings of Elvis.  Two young ladies named Peggy Ferrell and Diana Hoover, roommates at the time, attended this auction.  Peggy bid $15 on the battered guitar case, said to be one of the first owned by Elvis.

Somehow, the girls were able to get Elvis to sign the case, “To Peggy and Diana from Elvis Presley” with a bold marker on the inside bottom felt.  Forty-five years later, that $15 purchase was worth $5,000 at another auction.  Nice going, Peggy.

 

Contract for Easy Come, Easy Go:     $5,625

Some folks must have wanted this item pretty bad and started a bidding war on the contract for Elvis’ 23rd feature film.  I don’t get it.  For that kind of money you can get a ring or clothing that Elvis actually wore.  He signed this three-page contract on September 27, 1966, and it stipulates his salary would be $400,000.  Col. Parker’s signature is also on it, too, but that doesn’t add much to its worth.

 

Application for Membership in the Screen Actors Guild:     $6,250

This 8.5” x 5.5” document was signed in black ink by Elvis on August 21, 1956.  This was just one day before filming started on his first movie Love Me Tender.  I love the line:  “I understand the obtaining of employment is my own responsibility and it is not the function of the Screen Actors Guild to aid in securing employment for its members.”  Elvis had no trouble ‘finding employment’ in the movie business for the next sixteen years – he acted in 31 features.

 

©  2012    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net
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The Edge of Reality Vintage Elvis Gift Shop

Posted on September 1, 2012 by | 1 Comment

Two of my Elvis blogger buddies have bravely posted articles they describe as being… on the edge of reality.  Troy Yeary started it on his Mystery Train Elvis blog, which actually has this tag line “Following Dreams of Yesterday to the Edge of Reality.”

I love his concept on July 7:  You can go back in history to any time in Elvis’ life you choose.  And you are equipped with a special audio recorder to capture ten minutes of Elvis doing never-before recorded performances, rehearsals or private picking and singing at Graceland.

Then Thomas Melin of Elvis Today picked up on the idea on August 8 when he posted a fanciful story about Elvis on a huge world tour that never was.

 

Well, I wanted to get in on the Edge of Reality Elvis fun, but I couldn’t think of an interesting topic.  That is, until I checked out the 300 items Heritage Auctions presented on the “Elvis Memorabilia Signature Auction” in Memphis during Elvis Week.  In addition to clothes, jewelry, autographs and records, there was a sizeable selection of vintage Elvis merchandise that had been marketed to teenagers back in 1956 and 1957.

If you’ve ever travelled to Memphis to commemorate the life of the King, you know there is overwhelming array of Elvis stuff available in the Graceland gift shops.

 

Although most of that merchandise doesn’t do anything for me, I guess it appeals to somebody because it keeps selling.  But, how cool would it be we could find an assortment of 1956-57 Elvis items available today?  Here is my take on an Edge of Reality Vintage Elvis Gift Shop.

 

Elvis Poodle Skirt:

How about a black felt poodle skirt from 1956?  All you needed was your saddle oxfords and you’d be ready for the next high school sock hop.  A gyrating Elvis stands on a record album while musical notes and more records spin around him.  A little color is added in the red embroidering around the border of his guitar and the tiny red jewels used for the tuner pegs.  If we follow the value set by the winning bidder at the auction, the price tag on this poodle skirt would be $1,625.

 

Elvis Three-Ring Binder:

 

What could be better for creating your own Elvis scrapbook than a 1956 “Love Me Tender” three-ring binder with Elvis on the cover?  It’s big, 10.5” by 14”, with a zipper closure, and it has a simulated Elvis autograph.  What a steal at just $625.

 

The Elvis Presley Game:

 

The fine print on the box of this 1957 product calls it the “Party Game for the Young at Heart”.  Elvis’ favorite colors from the fifties – pink and black – decorate the box and game board, which is emblazoned with images of dancing bobbysoxers, teddy bears, and a hot rodding just-married couple. Accessories include ten record-shaped playing pieces and a spinner wheel featuring Elvis, swinging his arm around as the pointer.  No auction bidders were willing to meet the minimum bid of $1,250, so it would have to sell for something less at our Edge of Reality Vintage Elvis Gift Shop.


Elvis Presley Vintage T-Shirt:

 

How about a rare 1956 white, yellow and black long-sleeve t-shirt in excellent condition?  It is girls’ size Large, with a picture of the King and lyric lines from some of his songs on the front.  You have to love a shirt with three different colored fabrics and slits at the hips.  They don’t make them like that anymore.  A steal at just $625.

 

Adjustable Ring” Display Standup Card Complete with Twelve Elvis Rings:

 

Each of these twelve gold-colored “bubble” rings from 1956 bears a color photo of the King underneath a 0.625″ plastic magnifying lens.  The 7″ x 10″ cardboard display features a poor drawing of Elvis along with twelve slots which are all filled with rings. At upper right is handwritten “5.00 each.”  Well, the entire package went for $2,750, which puts the value of each ring at $229 today.  What a deal.  Better get two.

 

Elvis Presley Sneakers:

 

If you are a girl with size 3 feet, this is the Elvis goodie for you.  These Elvis Presley sneakers did get some wear after being purchased in 1956, so the tread is gone.  However, the auction still rated them in Very Good Condition (I’m not sure how that can be).The included box is in great condition and apparently adds a lot to the sneakers’ value, which ended up much higher than the auction’s estimate.  Price for the box and sneakers is $3,750.  I think you can buy shoes Elvis actually wore for less than that.

 

Love Me Tender Doll:

 

How about this cute little guy?  What teenage girl Elvis fan wouldn’t want an 18” “Love Me Tender” Elvis doll?  Issued in early 1957 to capitalize on the success of his first movie, this doll is dressed just like Elvis’ character Clint Reno in a plaid shirt and blue jeans.  This is a very rare collectible because the “skin” tended to deteriorate over time (Check out the right hand).  In spite of that, the price tag on this doll would be $875

 

Elvis Presley Large Tan Clutch Purse:

The auction offered several sizes and designs of Elvis clutch purses, but stated this was the rarest.  There are three Elvis images on it, and the one in the middle certainly got plenty of use back in 1956 products.  It is on three of the memorabilia items already presented, and there are two more to come.  This clutch purse is in Very Fine to Near Mint condition and carries a price tag of $625.

 

Elvis Presley Guitar:

 

It’s a big deal to find this 1956 guitar and the original carrying case in good condition, and this combo comes pretty close.  The guitar is missing three strings and has some damage to the top of the hound dog sticker.  The case is even rarer than the guitar, but it has some minor dings and bumps at the corners, a small taped tear, and wear along the top flap that fits inside the case when closed.  The auction bidders were apparently turned off by these little imperfections because nobody put in the minimum bid of $625.  So, the Edge of Reality Vintage Elvis Gift Shop price would have to be something less.

Elvis Presley Vintage Bookends:

Here’s a pair of authentic vintage plaster Elvis Presley bookends, manufactured by Elvis Presley Enterprises in 1956.  Sorry, but they look more like Lee Majors than Elvis to me. In spite of that, the price tag reads $375.

 

Elvis Presley Crew Hat, Dog Tags, and Promotional Banners:

This package includes four products and two promotional banners.  The Elvis Presley Crew Hat is in Mint condition and has the original tag still attached, which adds to its value.  And there are two 17 inch long store banners for the hat.  Also included are a simulated Army Dog Tag, two sizes of the Dog Tag Bracelet, and a Dog Tag Anklet.   Sold as a set only, but at a modest price of $312.

 

Elvis Presley Gum Card Set:

According to the auction house, there have been many card sets honoring Elvis, but none is more desirable than this complete 66-card set from 1956.  Twenty of the cards feature scenes from the King’s first feature film, Love Me Tender.  All but three of the cards grade out as Excellent.  What a steal at just $437.

 

Elvis Presley Vintage Handkerchiefs:

 

This 1956 set includes both blue and red versions of 13″ x 12″ handkerchiefs with motifs of Elvis’ hit songs.  The familiar picture of Elvis and his guitar is flipped on the blue one making Elvis look like a left-handed guitar player.  On the red one, there are both left and right-handed versions of the image, plus a side-view of Elvis singing into a mic. These handkerchiefs are both graded Near Mint, bringing the price tag up to $594.

 

Elvis Presley Belt:

This vintage blue vinyl belt from 1956 is quite rare.  It is adorned with brass buckles and images of Presley and some of his song titles.  It is in Excellent condition and seems like a bargain at just $375.

 

If you go to Memphis today you can choose from forty-three different Elvis 35th Anniversary items at 20% off.  Frankly, I’d much prefer to walk into an Edge of Reality Vintage Elvis Gift Shop that contained nothing but the kind of memorabilia shown above.   Of course, I couldn’t afford any of the vintage items, so I probably would go next door and buy one of those nifty discounted anniversary coffee mugs for $12.

 

©  2012    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net

 

Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

 

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Elvis’ Fabulous Rings — Part 3

Posted on August 18, 2012 by | 4 Comments

It was a slow process assembling the rings for Part 1 of this series – 13 rings from ten rock and roll memorabilia auctions over a four year period.  Part 2 was a little easier – eleven rings from four auctions plus the website Elvis Moments in Time.  For “Elvis’ Fabulous Rings — Part 3,” they all came from one auction that just ended on August 14.  It was the Ultimate Elvis Auction held in Memphis by Heritage Auctioneers over Elvis Week.  Let’s take take a look at ten more rings Elvis owned and gave away to a girlfriend, music associates, and Memphis Mafia buddies.

 

Diamond Cluster Ring

This 14K yellow gold ring adorned with seven small diamonds (approximate total weight of one carat) sold for $10,000 plus the auction house premium of 25% for a total of $12.500.  Also Included is a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from Sam Thompson, brother of Linda Thompson, and the King’s personal bodyguard for several years.  Thompson states Elvis was wearing the ring on a 1977 flight to Hawaii, Sam admired the ring, and Elvis simply removed it from his finger and gave it to him.

The appeal of this diamond cluster ring was no doubt enhanced by an accompanying photo showing Elvis in his dragon jumpsuit wearing the ring.

 

Rubellite Ring

This large baguette cut ring brought in a high price, considering that it is a synthetic ruby, not a real one.  Part of the explanation for this is the ring’s history.  As explained in a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) from Joe Esposito, Elvis wore this ring, and then gave it to his girlfriend at the time, Linda Thompson.  According to another COA, years later Thompson sold this and most of the other jewelry Elvis had given her to a Beverly Hills jewelry store.

But, probably the biggest boost to the selling price was the accompanying photo of Elvis in a white jumpsuit from his Elvis on Tour wardrobe wearing the ring.  This 9K gold and 20 carat rubellite ring sold for $6,875.

 

Gold Nugget Ring

Elvis usually pulled rings off his fingers to give them to other people, but sometimes they came right out of his bedroom jewelry box.  Elvis gave this 10K ring with four diamonds to Marty Lacker, his longtime friend, personal aide, and the co-best man at his wedding. . Lacker tells the story in the 2011 signed letter accompanying this ring:

“One night in the 70′s, I was upstairs at Graceland with Elvis and he was going through his jewelry case and he turned around came over to me and said ‘let me see your hand’. I had no idea what he meant so I put my left hand out and he slid this ring on my finger.  I thought it was a good looking ring. I looked at it and started to take it off to give back to him and he said, ‘keep it, it is now yours.’ That was a typical move for Elvis… I have worn it on my left hand every day for the last 40 years.”

The ring sold for $5,250, including the auctioneer’s premium.

 

Tiger Eye Ring

 

Here’s a ring we looked at earlier this year in “Elvis’ Fabulous Rings – Part 2.”  Elvis owned and wore this ring, but gave it to Claude Thompson, who was his choreographer for the ’68 Comeback Special.  The tiger eye stone is mounted on a 14k heavy gold electroplate setting.  Accompanied by a LOA from Thompson, it sold at auction in November 2009 for $4,481.  Now, it was able to command $5,500 plus premium, so the owner made a little over $1,000 on the sale.

 

Gold Coin and Diamond Ring

 

This is an impressive ring, with an 1853 two-and-a half-dollar gold coin surrounded by tiny diamonds and set in a 14K gold mounting.  However, the seller obviously had an inflated sense of its value.  The auction estimate was $35,000, and the minimum bid was half that.  With the premium added, that comes to almost $22,000 opening bid, and no buyers thought it was worth it.

One problem was that there was no photo of Elvis wearing it.  The item description says you can see the ring on his finger in the 1970 documentary Elvis: That’s the Way It Is.  Well, duh.  Why didn’t the seller play the DVD on his computer and do a screen grab?  With some cropping and resizing, he’d have the photo you need to establish Elvis’ ownership.

 

Turquoise Ring

 

This ring cost less originally than most of Elvis’ purchases because it has no gold or diamonds.  There is a large turquoise stone set in silver.  It went for $4,375, including the premium.  This was certainly aided by a color photo of Elvis wearing it.  It also had had two LOAs verifying it as a ring Elvis owned.  He later gave it to J.D Sumner of the Stamps Quartet as part of a gift of a large collection of turquoise jewelry.

 

Gold and Citrine Ring

 

This ring was custom made for Elvis in the early 1970s by Thunderbird Jewelers of Las Vegas.  It has eight citrine stones totaling 25 carats in a gold setting.  It sold for $5,000, the minimum bid plus the premium.

It is another of the rings Elvis gave to Linda Thompson in the 70s that she sold in the 80s.  There was no photo of Elvis wearing it, but Joe Esposito provided an affidavit and a certificate of authenticity.  Seems like it would be better to have these from Linda Thompson.

 

Black Star Sapphire and Diamond Ring

 

The auction web page proudly described this as a massive gold 14K ring with a large number of round brilliant cut diamonds and many black sapphires.  Then they put what would seem like a ridiculously low opening bid of $1,250 on it.  Nine bidders ran the winning price up to $8,750 including the premium.  Elvis gave the ring to Alan Fortas, a member of the Memphis Mafia and one of Elvis’ best friends for almost two decades.  Fortas once said:

“Elvis believed the wearing of sapphire jewelry was supposed to signify generosity, good manners, wisdom and noble thoughts.”

The ring was accompanied by a LOA from Abe Fortas.  I wonder what it might have gone for if there was also a photo of Elvis wearing it.

 

Gold and Diamonds Ring

 

Here is the second ring that failed to generate the minimum bid.  The auction estimated it would bring $30,000 because it is huge – nearly 1-1/4 inches square with 36 diamonds set in 14K gold.  It says EP on one side and TCB on the other.  And, it was accompanied by a color photo of Elvis wearing the ring.  No history of the ring was given.  For some reason, the lot included two framed unused tickets for an August 22, 1977 concert at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, NY, six days after Elvis’ death.  Even with all that, nobody wanted to put out $18,750 (including auction premium) to buy it.

 

Red Coral, Turquoise, and Sterling Silver Ring

 

This is a ring we also looked at in “Elvis’ Fabulous Rings – Part 1”, and the result was better the first time.  In the early 70s, turquoise rings were very popular with Elvis, and he had as many as ten or twelve.  One day Elvis realized he had so many and said to Charlie Hodge, “What am I going to do with so many turquoise rings?”  He solved the problem by giving this ring to Charlie.

In March 2011, Gotta Have Rock and Roll Auctions offered this Native American ring with elaborate silver work accented by turquoise and coral stones.  It was accompanied by a LOA from Charlie Hodge and a picture of Elvis wearing the ring.  It went for $5,000 plus premium, and I commented at the time that it seemed like a hefty price for an Elvis ring with no gold or diamonds in it.

So, now Heritage Auctions has had their shot at this ring.  The LOA from Hodge was included, but not the picture of Elvis wearing it.  Somebody goofed, and the winning bidder had to pay only the minimum bid of $3,000 plus premium.  Yes, it is possible to lose money on high-priced Elvis collectibles.

 

 

©  2012    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net

 

 

Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

 

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Elvis’ Fabulous Rings — Part 2

Posted on May 21, 2012 by | 2 Comments

In March 2011, ElvisBlog presented a pictorial essay showing thirteen Elvis-owned rings that had sold at auction in the previous five years.  A few more Elvis’ rings have changed hands in auctions since then, but various websites have provided photos of other rings he owned, most including significant historical or price information.  So, let’s take a look at ten more of Elvis’ fabulous rings.

Diamond and Opal Ring:

Diamond and Opal Ring

Opals were one of Elvis’ favorite stones (there were three opal rings in the first ElvisBlog article).  This one is a massive 14kt gold ring with two opals and a bunch of diamonds.  Elvis wore it both on stage and for personal use.  It was offered at the July 2011 Gotta-Have-It Rock & Roll Auction, and it sold for $10,365, including the buyer’s premium added on by the auction house.

Diamond and Peridot Ring:

Diamond and Peridot Ring

The large gem in the center of this 14k gold ring is a 6.70ct. oval-cut peridot.  It is surrounded by two circles of tiny diamonds totaling .60 carats.  Elvis owned the ring for a while, and then gave it to his cousin Harold Lloyd in the mid-seventies.  The ring was offered at Julien’s March 2011 with an expected range of $2,00 to 4,000.

TCB Ring:

TCB Ring

This has to be the most expensive ring Elvis ever had special-made for him, or at least in the top three.  It contains 56 diamonds, including an 11.5 carat solitaire.  Elvis paid $35,000 for it in 1974, which would be $163,000 in today’s dollars.  So far, I have been unable to find if it has ever been sold at auction.

Black Sapphire and Diamond Ring:

Black Sapphire and Diamond Ring

Here is another nugget-style ring once owned by Elvis.  Not too much is known about this ring except that Elvis wore it for a while and then gave it in 1976 or 1977 to his uncle Uncle Vester, the long-time guard of the Graceland gates.  The ring has a large black sapphire surrounded by six diamonds.

Chieftain Ring:

Chieftain Ring

Although this ring looks like silver, it is 14k gold.  The chieftain features a round emerald accenting the headdress.  Two full-cut diamonds are his eyes, and thirteen others complete the headdress.  As with so many of the rings Elvis owned, he gave this one away, too.  He gave it to Ed Parker, his karate teacher and friend.  The chieftain ring sold in 2011 at Julien’s Auction for $15,360.

Turquoise and Opalescent Ring:

Turquoise and Opalescent Ring

This is an unusual Elvis ring because it does not contain any diamonds or gold.  Turquoise was another of Elvis’ favorite stones (there was another one in the 2011 ElvisBlog article).  This large sterling silver ring was owned by Elvis in the 70s.  Who he gave it away to is not clear, but it has sold at least twice at auction, in 2006 and again in 2009 for $6,572 (including BP).

The Ashville Ring:

Ashville Ring

Back to gold and diamonds again – big time.  This beauty is encrusted with 19 round-cut diamonds totaling 10 carats.  It is called the Ashville Ring because it was there that Elvis gave it away to a fan during a July 24th 1975 concert.  The fan was Lloyd Perry, and this is how he remembers the event:

Elvis was coming to Asheville, N.C. for 3 nights in July 1975. A friend of mine got us tickets for the 24th, and believe it or not it was front row seats, right in the middle of the stage. I could reach out and touch him we were so close. Of course when Elvis came out the crowd went wild. We noticed he kind of looked at our group there in the front. Maybe it was the light and he could see us. Well, 2 or 3 songs into the show he turned, walked back to the center of the stage, and then turned around and threw his guitar toward me and this other guy seated next to me. We both caught it and played around with it. It was an old scratched up Gibson guitar, with Elvis Presley written in pearls down the neck. Although the other guy kept the guitar, I think Elvis wanted me to have it. After a couple more songs, all of a sudden my wife nudged me and said Elvis is motioning for you to come to the stage. Well, I looked up and went to the stage to shake hands with him, and to my absolute surprise, he was trying to put this ring on my pinky finger. I was shaking like a leaf. I then went back and sat down. I remember the crowd was going wild. Afterwards Elvis walked back across the stage, shrugged his shoulders and said ‘Aw what’s $16,000?’  An amazing night I will never forget.”

The ring may have cost Elvis $16,000, but it sold at Affiliated Auction for $107,500 in December 2009.

Gold and Diamond Caesar Cameo Ring:

Gold and Diamond Julius Caesar Ring

This type of heavy 18k gold ring is called nugget-style for obvious reasons.  In the center is a cameo that looks like Julius Caesar, and although he has five diamonds in his head, it’s not clear if he is wearing a crown.  Other diamonds grace the ring, 17 small single-cut stones around the cameo and 16 single-cut diamonds around the outer bezel.  The name Elvis is engraved on the backside of the cameo.  This ring sold at auction in August 2010 for $38,837 (including buyer’s premium).

Tiger Eye Ring:

Tiger Eye Ring

So far, we have looked at rings Elvis gave to his cousin, uncle, karate instructor, and a fan.  This one he gave to Claude Thompson, who was his choreographer for the ’68 Comeback Special.  The tiger eye stone is mounted on a 14k gold ring.  It sold for $4,481 (including BP) at auction in November 2009.

Lapis and Diamond Ring:

Lapis and Diamond Ring

Karate instructor Ed Parker apparently received several rings as gifts from Elvis. This is the second in this pictorial, so he has obviously been turning a few bucks over the years auctioning them off.  Lapis is another of Elvis’ favorite stones (there were two in the 2011 blog).  The website where I found this picture said it last sold for $12,800, but didn’t say where or when.

 

©  2012    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net

 

Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

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