This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/15/2025
Offered are Vernon Presley's Shelby County Deputy Sheriff's badge and his 1970 Shelby County Sheriff's Department photo ID card. Elvis Presley's interest and reverance for law enforcement was legendary, and every member of his inner circle, his "Memphis Mafia", shared his convictions. When Elvis received a Shelby County Sheriff's badge, he made sure his boys were deputized, as well. There is a famous photo of Elvis and the entire Memphis Mafia taken at Graceland the night of Sonny West's wedding, December 28, 1970. In the photo, all the guys are holding up their Shelby County badges, and Vernon is seen just behind Elvis most-likely holding the offered badge, which was issued just weeks before. (see photo at right.)
Also inlcuded for further provenance and confirmation is a 2003 letter from Sheriff Mark Luttrell, Jr. on Shelby County Sheriff's Office letterhead that states in part:
I was made aware of the telephone call you made recently in regards to a request for authenticity of a Captain's badge and I.D. for Vernon Presley that you now have in your possession. With the physical description you provided, in researching, we came up with the following information. Our records revealed that a Shelby County Sheriffs Office L.D. and badge #22 were issued to Vernon Presley on 11/24/70, under the administration of Sheriff Roy Nixon.
The number "22" "Captain" badge and ID card are presented in the original wallet both show moderate to heavy wear--Vernon carried it often. Excellent condition overall.