Jacqueline Kennedy's personally-owned and -used Ronson Varaflame Petite butane lighter, 1.25 x 1.5, with olive metallic body and gold-toned accent parts; one side of the lighter bears a small presidential seal, and the other a silver-and-gold leaf inlay design. The bottom features engraved Ronson marks. Includes the original white Ronson case with red interior. In fine condition. This lighter was gifted by Jacqueline Kennedy to Hollywood actor Peter Lawford, the brother-in-law of President Kennedy, and is accompanied by a letter of provenance from Dr. Bruce Foley, who purchased several Kennedy-related items from the Lawford estate sale. Also accompanied by a color 8 x 10 photo of John and Jackie Kennedy watching the American Cup Race from aboard the USS Joseph P. Kennedy on September 15, 1962. The image is one of only a handful in public domain that confirmed Jackie Kennedy enjoyed smoking cigarettes, a secret that she insisted be kept from the public eye during her time in the White House. A unique and, ultimately, highly personal accessory that represents the well-hidden vice of a former first lady.
