Original 1966 Disneyland Gold Pass, 3.75 x 2.5, issued to California Governor Goodwin J. Knight and his wife, signed on the front in blue ballpoint, “Walt Disney.” Accompanied by a photo of Governor Knight and Disney during a presentation ceremony at the Hollywood Bowl. In fine condition.
Only people of distinction were lucky enough to receive the illustrious Gold Pass, an exclusive ticked which allowed the holder access to each theme park owned and operated by The Walt Disney Company. The first was given to the first paying patron of the park in 1955; since then, such icons such as Art Linkletter and JFK have counted themselves amongst the select few to receive such unparalleled access to Disney’s magic, Governor Knight had been tied to Disneyland since the opening ceremonies on July 17, 1955. Assisting with the event’s festivities, he called Disneyland "a wondrous community with all the charm of the old world and all of the progress and ingenuity of the new world."
These passes were issued annually, each signed by Disney himself until 1966, the year two very significant events would dazzle—and devastate—the wide world of Disney. On May 28th, the now world renowned boat ride, It’s a Small World, which was initially introduced at the 1964 World Fair in New York to test concepts and attractions for the park, was moved to what would become its permanent home at Fantasyland. That same year, Disney himself was preparing for neck surgery, a result of his polo-playing days at the Riviera Club in Hollywood. Biopsy results unearthed a malignant tumor which had already spread throughout his left lung. Acting fast, doctor’s removed the lung, but not soon enough. Ten days after his 65th birthday, on December 15, 1966, Disney succumbed to acute circulatory collapse, caused by lung cancer. This 1966 Golden pass was literally one of the last personally granted by Disney himself, making this exceptionally desirable all-access ticket a rare and exemplary piece of Disneyland memorabilia. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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