Elvis Presley, who is also known as “The King,” may have left the building, but his planes remain up for grabs in this rare opportunity in pop-culture history. Fans from around the world will be able to bid on Presley’s two jet planes in an auction held by Julien’s Auctions. The current owners (whom remain nameless) have had the planes on display for the past 30 years in Graceland and their contract ends in April of 2015. The pair will be sold off as a set to the lucky new owner in the auction, which is set to end Feb. 2, 2015. However, don’t think the fortunate fan will be flying in style from now on. These fancy flying machines are for display purposes only and will come with the option of purchasing land adjacent to Graceland for exhibition separate from the Presley Museum.
The planes, named “Lisa Marie” and “Hound Dog II” after Presley’s daughter and his hit song, were purchased in 1975 and arrived at Graceland in 1978. They were refurbished and designed by Presley himself to reflect his luxurious lifestyle. “Lisa Marie” cost Presley $250,000 while “Hound Dog II” totaled at $900,000. Presley spent over $300,000 on refurbishing the “Lisa Marie,” which now features a master suite, bar, and conference room with The King’s signature phrase TCB (Taking Care of Business) painted in red, white, and blue on the tail. Often on tour and preferring to fly at night, “Lisa Marie” was able to accommodate Presley’s busy schedule, allowing him to travel a distance of 3,000 miles. The planes are expected to earn almost ten times their original value in the auction with Julien’s Auctions expecting $10 – $15 million from the sale.
You might ask whether fans are as excited as they should be for this momentous opportunity? Twitter and Facebook feeds alike reflect a different sentiment. It seems that many fans are concerned over whether or not the new owners will have the planes on display for the public. Posts range from expressing gratitude from having recently toured the planes, to distress, and even critique over Elvis Presley Enterprises allowing such an auction to occur. With the last owners allowing the planes’ display for the past 30 years, it would be a shame to have the attraction disappear so suddenly from the eyes and hearts of so many fans.
Whether you’re excited or dismayed at this newest update in Presley history, the facts remain the same–“Lisa Marie” and “Hound Dog II” are up for sale. After 30 years on display at Graceland, their fate lies in the hands of the planes’ new owners. While the planes are no longer airworthy, their prestige would be a fine addition to any fan’s collection (for the right price).
Elvis Presley, who is also known as “The King,” may have left the building, but his planes remain up for grabs in this rare opportunity in pop-culture history. Fans from around the world will be able to bid on Presley’s two jet planes in an auction held by Julien’s Auctions. The current owners (whom remain nameless) have had the planes on display for the past 30 years in Graceland and their contract is set to end in April of 2015. The pair will be sold off as a set to the lucky new owner in the auction, which is set to end Feb. 2, 2015. However, it should be noted that neither of the planes is airworthy and they are meant for display purposes only. The new owners will also acquire the option of purchasing land adjacent to Graceland for exhibition separate from the Presley Museum. If you are in the financial position to participate in this auction, visit Julien’s Auctions website for more information. Sealed bids can only be accepted via written proxy and mailed to Julien’s Auctions. You can also obtain an official sealed bid form via email at info@juliensauctions.com or call 310-836-1818 for more information. Results will be revealed after the auction’s end on Feb. 2, 2015 @ 5:00 p.m. PST.
Blog by Leigh Haugh
Sources:
Julien’s Auctions Official Website