Up for Auction: Ronald and Nancy Reagan’s Personal Possessions
From the former first lady’s Bulgari jewelry to a gift from Frank Sinatra, here are some of the highlights from Christie’s upcoming auction of the President and Mrs. Ronald Reagan’s private collection.
When Nancy Reagan passed away earlier this year, many remembered her unapologetic sense of style. “In Washington, Reagan was ostracized for liking, really loving, her clothes and doting on the world of fashion. Her style was a cheery chic, color, and a lot of it red – “Nancy Red,” as it came to be known,” the writer William Norwich recalled in a story for W. Now, Christie’s is auctioning off over 700 pieces that belonged to the 40th president and his wife, including Tony Llama cowboy boots, a Thanksgiving platter, and, of course, plenty of Mrs. Reagan’s jewelry.
The most iconic of Mrs. Reagan’s belongings is also the highest estimated lot–a Van Cleef & Arpels lion necklace estimated between $30,000-$50,000. The necklace is part of a suite and has matching earrings also being auctioned in the sale separately, estimated between $15,000-$20,000.
Also in the auction is a sapphire, diamond and ruby ring, also by Bulgari, that belonged to the former first lady. That piece is a steal, and is estimated between $5,000 and $7,000.
The live auction is happening on September 21st and 22nd. The sale will run online from the 19th through the 28th with lower priced lots including jewelry, handbags, and table top items. The proceeds from the auction will benefit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute.
A Selection from Christie’s Auction of President and Mrs. Ronald Reagan’s Private Collection
A marine chronometer in fitted brass-mounted mahogany three-tier box by Tiffany & Co., circa 1981, which was an inauguration gift to President Ronald Reagan from Mr. and Mrs. Francis Sinatra.
Van Cleef & Arpels earrings.
A diamond and gold lion pendant-brooch necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels.
A diamond, sapphire, and ruby ring by Bulgari.
A needlepoint cushion, circa 1984.
A gold and white diamond bracelet by Bulgari.
Ronald Reagan’s humidor.
