WHAT: Personal effects of President Ronald Reagan will sell via two auction platforms at Christieβs New York later this month. From Sept. 19-27, an online auction (christies.com) will highlight items including Nancy Reaganβs Chanel handbags, her jewelry and desk accessories. Dining room accessories will also sell online. All results from both sales are to benefit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute.
MORE: Heavy hitters, items personally tied to the Reagan presidency and sure to bring big money, are to sell at live auction Sept. 21-22. This sale will also be online.
Lots include Reaganβs custom size 10 Β½ B cowboy boots made by Texas bootmaker Tony Lama as a gift for the president from actor Rex Allen, the Willcox native who was known as βArizona Cowboy.β Estimated to sell for $10,000 to $20,000, they are made of American black quill ostrich, cowhide and, on the Seal of the President of the United States, hand-tooled 14-karat gold and American bullfrog skin.
SMART COLLECTORS KNOW: Often photographed wearing these or similar boots, Reagan was closely associated with the American West. Extensive photo documentation makes the boots likely to soar, and the 40th president remains a popular figure with many.
HOT TIP: The sale happens during a tumultuous campaign year. Who knows? Bidders may look back on the (perceived) saner Reagan Era and open their wallets even more.
BOTTOM LINE: About 700 lots will sell, with many involving multiple objects. Presale estimates run approx. $1,000 to $50,000, and results are expected to top $2 million.
