When it comes to the intriguing world of American history, few figures stir up as much fascination as President John F. Kennedy. His charm, alleged affairs, and tragically premature death have earned him an enduring spot in the annals of our collective memory. And it’s often through unexpected artifacts that we get a surprisingly personal glimpse into his life and legacy.
A macabre relic connected to one of America’s most somber moments was recently auctioned at RR Auction. Despite its physical smallness, the artifact, a dark piece of memorabilia, fetched an astonishing $46,000 due to its profound connection to November 22, 1963. This date is deeply ingrained in the American consciousness as the tragic day when President Kennedy was assassinated during a motorcade ride through Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas. And it is here that our artifact finds its grim significance.
The artifact itself? None other than two swatches of light and dark blue seat leather from the very limousine JFK was traveling in when tragedy struck. The worn swatches from the 1961 Lincoln Continental X-100 presidential limousine are stained with blood.
F. Vaughn Ferguson, whose primary responsibility was to take care of the presidential limousine, confirmed obtaining the dark swatches of history. “Four days after the Assassination the White House upholsterer and I removed this leather at the White House. The light blue leather is from the center of the rear seat. The dark blue leather is from the border of the rear seat. The spots on the leather are the dried blood of our beloved President, John F. Kennedy,” Ferguson wrote in a letter of provenance, per RR Auction.
Earlier this year, another Kennedy limousine swatch, encapsulated by CAG, sold for a cool $4,500, per University Archives. But this recent auction, taking place just around the 60th anniversary of JFK’s death, witnessed a significant leap in the value placed on these eerie echoes of the past. A section of the picket fence that lined the infamous grassy knoll went for $13,740, and a revolver owned by Lee Harvey Oswald went for a whopping $31,000, per TMZ.
While the trading of such items may be a bit unsettling for some, their historical significance and the fascination they hold for collectors are undeniable. As we continue to reflect on JFK’s impact and his abrupt departure, these memorabilia offer a dark but tangible connection to a moment in time that continues to both captivate and unsettle us.
Before you go, click here to see the biggest presidential scandals in US History.
Leave a Comment