Elvis’ Private Jet On Auction Block

By Blurt Staff

This press release just got slipped over the BLURT transom... sometimes we write the news, sometimes it writes itself! And take note of where the item has been stored... cue up "Twilight Zone" theme music....

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The staff of the largest collector and vintage car auction company, Kruse International, is busy finalizing all details so that the 35th Annual Las Vegas Collector Car Auction taking place December 19-20 will be another success. Kruse proudly announced an impressive lineup of vehicles that includes "Mr. Las Vegas" Wayne Newton's 1982 Mercedes Benz, Pamela Anderson's customized "LoveStream" Trailer Lounge, and the most coveted item of the event: Elvis Presley's 1962 Lockheed Jet.

Elvis Presley was known to be an airplane enthusiast, owning three jets during his lifetime, which included a Convair 880 Jet (the famous "Lisa Marie") and two Lockheed jets. After Elvis' death, all jets were sold, and today, only "Hound Dog II" and the "Lisa Marie" have returned to Graceland.

The 1962 Lockheed Jet that will be up for auction is one of only 204 aircraft manufactured between 1957 and 1978 in a private project between Jetstar and Lockheed. This aircraft has never been restored and features original external painting and detailing, as well as the original interior. The jet is the only airplane that belonged to Elvis that is still in private hands. It is expected that the aircraft will bring an estimated range between $700,000 to $2 million.

Stored in Roswell, New Mexico, prospective buyers will be invited to inspect the Lockheed Jetstar JT 12-5 on December 13-14. According to the owner, the aircraft can be easily moved by taking off the wings until it reaches its final destination. The engines are out of the jet, but can be purchased for an additional amount ranging between $10,000 and $35,000, depending on its condition.

The aircraft is considered by many Elvis fans to be one of the greatest attractions in the world, making it a substantial addition to any museum, amusement park, entertainment center or private collection.

Visit www.kruse.com for more details. A fee of $75 is required to register for participants in the Las Vegas auction.