Kennedy’s personally-owned lighter. The 10k gold plated butane lighter measures 2.5 x 1.5 x .5, bears a blue presidential seal on the front, and is engraved on both sides, “J. F. K.” This lighter was presented by Kennedy to longtime White House Doorman Preston Bruce, and is accompanied by an August 21, 1983 letter from Bruce to noted collector Raleigh DeGeer Amyx, written on White House stationery. The letter reads, in part: “The…gold-plated butane lighter with the initials ‘J. F. K.’ engraved on both sides was owned by President John F. Kennedy…From 1953–1977, I was the White House Doorman. During those years I had the privilege of serving five Presidents…In this capacity I was trusted to be in close proximity to the Oval Office and the President. After hearing of your vast Presidential collection…I would like for you to have this lighter which was given to me personally by President Kennedy. He was always so very kind to me and always thanking me for my long and steadfast service.” In fine, and apparent, unused condition. Provenance: The Raleigh DeGeer Amyx Collection. RR Auction COA.
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