The Auction at Graceland•January 8, 2020
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/8/2020
As Elvis rose to fame and celebrity status that eclipsed even the brightest stars of the day, security at his beloved home Graceland and his home away from home at the Circle G Ranch became more important and all encompassing. Fame has a way of diminishing privacy and since Circle G Ranch was Elvis’ main escape from the demands of Hollywood and public life, it was vital to keep the world at bay. Elvis tended to employ only family members and his closest friends to guard his properties. The offered white short-sleeve button-down shirt with two breast pockets and “EP” elaborately embroidered in black on the right breast has a collar tag which reads “Made of Simpson’s Soulette Poplin / 100% Combed Cotton - sanforized / Styled by Conqueror / Union Made.” The size “M” is stamped into the collar. Similar styled shirts were also used by the guards at Graceland during the 1960s. The shirt comes with a handwritten note from Donna Lewis that reads “This shirt was part of my dad’s uniform while he worked security for Elvis Presley. It dates back to 1967 and Elvis’ Circle G Ranch in Walls, Mississippi.” Also included is a modern print of a photo of Mr. Lewis wearing the shirt at the ranch, standing next to Elvis’ baby blue “Circle G Ranch” pickup truck. The guard shirt is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Graceland Authenticated.
The shirt is intact, but shows signs of heavy use and has one large stain on the front (which could probably be removed). Excellent condition.