The lockheed jetstar of 1962 vintage that belonged to pop star elvis presley, the King of rock ‘n’ roll finally got a buyer after it had occupied the runway of an airport in New Mexico for 35 years. It was sold for $430,000 at an auction in California that featured celebrity memorabilia, but the auctioneer has not disclosed any details about the buyer.
About the aircraft
New Zealand Herald reports that Elvis Presley and his father owned the 1962 Lockheed Jetstar and the interior of the aircraft was luxuriously decorated. According to the auction house, the rock ‘n’ roll star had designed the interior himself, and it had gold-tone woodwork, red velvet seats, and red shag carpet.
Unfortunately, its engine is missing, and if anyone wants to fly it, he would have to install an engine. Its cockpit also would require being restored to make it fly worthy. The physical condition of the aircraft has deteriorated with its seats torn because it had been lying on the tarmac of Roswell, New Mexico for 35 years and the weather has taken its toll.
There appears to be some confusion on whether Elvis had really designed the red velvet interiors. The claim has been disputed by a previous owner who said that he had done it himself – his version is that when he purchased the Jetstar, its interiors were of two-toned gray. However, his claim may not stand scrutiny because, as per records of the Federal Aviation Administration, no change has ever been made in the interior designs.
About Elvis Presley
The King of rock ‘n’ roll was born in Tupelo on Jan. 8, 1935, and moved to Memphis with his parents at a very young age. He became an icon of the youth of the 1960s with his turned up collar to accommodate the strap of the guitar he slung around his neck. Elvis Presley acted in a number of films which were loved by his fans and his provocative dancing and hit records gave him a special aura, and he became a celebrity.
He was one of the 20th century's most recognizable icons and passed away at the young age of 42.
Memorabilia of celebrities
Celebrities of the tinsel world are remembered long after they are gone and to preserve their memories, their fans go hunting for memorabilia. Auctioneers descend on the scene and collect all available items for sale to buyers who are keen to acquire them for their private collection.
Memorabilia of stars like Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe and Michael Jackson are always in demand. It is human nature, and those who had never come face to face with the celebrity will try to acquire one of the items that once belonged to him to outsmart others like the 1962 Lockheed Jetstar. The buyers have the money to invest, and these are costly investments that are necessary to help in image building.
