In many ways, the offered keepsake is the ultimate tribute to the life of Elvis Presley (1935–1977). Aside from gyrating his way to exhilarating and explosive musical productions, Elvis Presley was, let’s face it, a cash cow. The “King” was also a loyal and devoted friend, treating most favorably longtime pal Joe Esposito. These latter two qualities are manifest in this signed personal check, which Presley intended his good friend use for rent purposes. Dated October 16, 1975, the 6 x 2.75 legal tender was made payable to Joe Esposito in the rather exorbitant amount of $1,700, which was to be drawn on Presley’s personal account at the National Bank of Commerce in Memphis, Tennessee. The legend signed the check, “E. A. Presley” along the signature line in black ink, and placed the entry, “apt Rent,” at the space reserved for the memo. The impressive gem displays fine condition with a small pencil notation at top left, and a standard bank stamp to its body (which shows through slightly on the reverse). An original member of the “Memphis Mafia,” Joe Esposito served as Presley’s chief road manager, and even held the honor of being the “King’s” best man at his wedding. For its wonderful historical significance, this very exemplar was featured in the August/September 2007 issue of Autograph Collector magazine in an article written by Roger Epperson entitled “Elvis: The Later Years.” Matted and framed with a color portrait to an overall size of 14.5 x 21. JSA/Roger Epperson (REAL) Auction LOA and RRAuction COA.
