This week, buyers will have a rare opportunity to purchase firearms and items once owned by rock & roll legend, Elvis Presley, crossing the block during Rock Island Auction Company’s Three Day Premier Firearms Auction. Well-known for his iconic career in music and film, the King still retains an international fan base 40 years after his death.
Presley was an avid collector and purchaser of firearms. At the time of his death, it was stated Presley owned 37 firearms and one machine gun, but he also frequently purchased firearms as gifts. Reportedly, Presley purchased 32 handguns, one shotgun, and a rifle from Kerrs Sporting Goods in Beverly Hills in a single month (January, 1967) as gifts totaling $19,792.
Colt Python Revolver with a 6” Barrel and Ivory Carved Grips
This historic and well documented exhibition-quality firearm was presented by Elvis to employee Richard Grob –Director of Security and Operations for Elvis Presley Enterprises. Grob was a close personal confidant to Presley from 1967 until his death in 1977. The firearm was purchased as part of Elvis’ “Shopping Spree” at Kerrs Sporting Goods in Beverly Hills in January, 1967.
Smith & Wesson Model 19-2 Double Action Revolver
This item was purchased by Presley as a gift for Vice President Spiro Agnew. However, Agnew returned the firearm, and it was later presented to Shelby County Sheriff Gene Barksdale. The firearm is exhibition-quality and is accompanied with a well-documented history file.
Elvis Presley’s Diamond and Ruby Studded Shelby County Sheriff’s Badge
Presley had a deep respect and admiration for law enforcement and maintained close ties with the Memphis Police and Shelby County Sherriff’s Departments, donating equipment, squad cars, and even paying for funeral expenses for fallen officers. He also had an affinity for collecting Police Badges. . In fact, this badge was the first collected by The King in 1972. The rubies and diamonds were later added by Presley.
Elvis Presley Signed Contact to Purchase Graceland
Second only to the White House, Graceland is one of the most frequently visited homes in the United States, with more than 600,000 visitors each year passing through the iconic Memphis plantation. Presented for sale is the first purchasing contract for Graceland, the place Presley called home from 1957 until his death in 1977. The item is signed by Elvis, his parents Vernon and Gladys, and real estate agent Virginia Grant.
In total, nearly 2,800 lots of antique, modern firearms, and military artifacts will be sold May 5 – 7 beginning at 9 AM Central daily. Each item connected to Elvis Presley comes with a well-documented history, including verification from Presley’s estate. For more information, visit Rock Island Auction Company on Proxibid.