This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/27/2021
Elvis' love of football is a well known part of his story. From his teenage days all the way through the 1970s, pickup football games were a treasured part of Elvis' free time recreation. The offered football apparently saw many a trip to the Graceland gridiron, with its heavy scuffing and wear. The "Spalding" model "J5-V" hails from the late 1960s-early 1970s and was eventually gifted to Elvis' cousin Patsy Presley, to whom he gave a great many things during the many years she worked in the offices at Graceland. The ball is accompanied by a letter from noted collector Tom Salva detailing his acquisition of the jacket among other items he purchased from Patsy in 1982. The letter states,
The item listed and shown above has been in my personal Elvis Presley collection since 1982. I purchased this item, and 45 other items, from Patsy Presley, Elvis Presley’s cousin who worked as secretary in the offices at Graceland for many years during Elvis’ career. Included below is a copy of the handwritten letter from Patsy, dated August 7, 1982, describing the items that were part of that purchase. It included police badges, shirts, rings, credit cards, books and other items.
Also accompanying is a color copy of the original letter from Patsy Presley Gambill, as referenced in Tom's letter. The football measures 12 x 7 inches and presents with heavy, heavy use, with dirt and scuffing and scratches from many battles on the lawn. Very Good to Excellent condition.