Two items: rare official Metropolitan Police special-issue brass badge for Kennedy's inauguration on January 20, 1961, measuring approximately 2.25 x 3, reading: "Metropolitan Police / D. C. / Inauguration of / John F. Kennedy / Lyndon B. Johnson / 1961." Shield-shaped badge design is topped with an eagle and features an image of the US Capitol in high relief. Reverse bears a pin and clasp fastener. Also includes a rare General Services Administration Public Building Service pass, number 13739, 3 x 2.25, authorizing Sidney R. Carpenter to enter "Room 105, Old Post Office building for the purpose of viewing the Inaugural Parade. No other authority is conferred by this pass." Due to the small size of the viewing area, only individuals of significant military or civilian GSA rank were given these passes, making them quite rare. Badge is in very fine condition; pass is in very good condition, with moderate overall toning, toned tape affixed to top and bottom, and a punch hole to upper right corner. The consignor notes that his father was friends with John Layton, chief of the Washington police, who gave the family a pair of these badges as mementos of the day. The Metropolitan Police began issuing these special inauguration badges in 1937, which marked FDR's second inaugural event, and the tradition has continued to the present day; these badges in general are in limited supply and prized by collectors, with the 1961 version being one of the most desirable. RR Auction COA.
