One of the earliest known Elvis Presley concert posters comes to auction tomorrow.
It’s among the star pieces of Graceland Auctions’ January 6 sale – which coincides with the King’s birthday celebrations.
The handpainted bill has survived in great conditon
The piece dates from late in 1954, when Elvis was just starting to make a name for himself.
It advertises his upcoming appearance at the Eagle’s Nest, a nightclub above Memphis’ Clearpool entertainment complex – where Elvis played 16 times during the first months of his career.
The mention of You’re a Heartbreaker (recorded in December 1954) suggests the poster could be from the last of those 16 – on December 10.
The hand-painted poster hung above the nightclub’s entrance, while the “Scotty and Bill” mentioned are his accomplished backing group, Scotty Moore and Bill Black.
“This amazingly rare survivor from the club where Elvis’ legend was launched perfectly captures the spirit of the scene from one of the most formative years in Elvis’ career,” explains the auction house.
Its $20,000 estimate seems reasonable given the fact this poster is one of the first known. A different example from February 1955 sold for $9,500 five years ago.
Also up for grabs is a leather rocking chair from Graceland’s “Jungle Room”.
Perfect for the King of the Jungle Room
In the mid-1960s Elvis turned an outdoor patio into an indoor den of kitsch, including shag carpets, animal fur, rainbow lights, and a (malfunctioning) waterfall.
Here he would spend much of his time, from taking breakfast to entertaining guests in the evening.
The rocking chair was removed in the mid-1970s during a refit.
It’s expected to make up to $15,000.
Searching for your own piece of Elvis history? Look at this incredible double-signed album we have in stock.
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