The King of Rock 'n' Roll is still royal at 80, and all week long Elvis Presley's Graceland is celebrating what would have been the King's milestone birthday.
The significance of Elvis' 80th birthday is not lost on fans and pop culture enthusiasts alike, with visitors from all over the world gathering in Memphis to celebrate this year's extra-special birthday bash. Priscilla Presley is scheduled to appear at the Jan. 8 event (livestream here), which includes a cake fit for a king, featuring 8 individual tiers.
The day's festivities will be topped by an auction in which fans can own a piece of Elvis history. Up for bid are 68 Elvis artifacts from third-party collectors; each has been certified as authentic by the Graceland estate. Check out some of the Elvis items up for bid at this week's Graceland auction.
TCB Necklace
Elvis gave this 14-karat gold and diamond necklace to the one-time head of maintenance at Graceland. Elvis often gave the TCB (Taking Care of Business) to men close to him, and TLC (Tender Loving Care) to close female friends.
Elvis' First Recording: "My Happiness"
This 78mm acetate captures Elvis's first-ever recording, making it be one of the most prized items in rock 'n' roll history. Elvis paid Memphis Recording Service $4 to cut this track, which he gave as a gift to his mother, Gladys.
Autographed Copy of "That's All Right"
This recording is the first professional recording Elvis made under the Sun Record label. Elvis autographed the 78rpm record for friend Ed Leek. It reads, "To a good pal, Elvis Presley."
Watch Featuring Star of David and Cross
This custom-designed watch was made for Elvis by Harry Levitch, who also made the wedding rings for Elvis and Priscilla Presley. The design, showcasing a Star of David and Christian cross, was meant to symbolize the brotherhood of men in Elvis' entourage. Elvis, whose great-great maternal grandmother was Jewish, also celebrated his roots by wearing a "Chai" necklace.