Offered is a handwritten National Bank of Commerce check for $200 signed by “E.A. Presley” with a notation in the upper left indicating “Exp for house while at MGM ‘Viva Las Vegas’ in Calf” that is payable to cash, numbered 18, and dated Aug. 26, 1963, shortly after the Colonel had to step in and control the excess costs and timeline for the production of Viva Las Vegas.
Viva Las Vegas is considered by many to be one of Elvis’ best films, highlighted by legendary songs and the natural chemistry between its two stars, Elvis and Ann-Margret. Elvis plays Lucky Jackson, who heads to Las Vegas to win the Grand Prix. In the process of raising the money he needs to repair his racecar, he crosses paths with Rusty Martin, a swimming instructor played by Ann-Margret. The fast-paced, twisted plot makes for a fun ride for the audience. Elvis reported to MGM studios in Hollywood for preproduction work on July 9, 1963. George Sidney, known for his lavish MGM productions, was hired as producer and director for the film. By mid-August, the Colonel became concerned with the elaborate production costs going over budget (and threatening profit-sharing possibilities) and attempted to rein in expenses by reaching out to Sam Katzman, another MGM producer known for short shooting times and tight budgets and fondly referred to as the “King of Quickies,” to finish production. As a result, all final work on Viva Las Vegas was complete by September 11, 1963.
The reverse of the check has been endorsed by Lillian Jackson, who was the housekeeper and cook for Elvis at Perugia Way and who was married to the butler of the house, Jimmy Jackson. This original period check written during Elvis’ stay in Los Angeles for the studio shooting for one of his most iconic films measures 2 3/4 by 6 1/4 inches and is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Graceland Authenticated (quoted here).