Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in December 2022.
Elvis Presley’s 1962 JetStar Hits the Auction Block
Elvis Presley’s iconic 1962 Lockheed 1329 JetStar is set for auction this January. This unique aircraft symbolizes Elvis’s larger-than-life persona and offers fans a rare chance to own a piece of music history. The jet once played a vital role in the King of Rock and Roll’s hectic touring schedule.
A Jet Full of Retro Luxury
Elvis purchased the JetStar in 1976 for $840,000. The interior reflects his signature style, featuring red velvet swivel chairs, a matching couch, and 1970s wood paneling. Entertainment options included a TV, VCR, cassette player, and headphone ports. The jet also came equipped with a microwave, drink dispenser, and a preserved toilet and vanity, adding to its vintage charm.
From Fame to Restoration Opportunity
After Elvis’s untimely death in 1977, the jet changed hands several times. It ended up in an aircraft graveyard in Roswell, New Mexico, where it has remained for decades. In 2017, it sold at auction for about $430,000. Now, Mecum Auctions has listed it again, calling it an “incredible restoration opportunity” for collectors and fans.
Historical Significance and Use
Mecum Auctions highlights the jet’s key role during Elvis’s career. It shuttled Elvis, his TCB band, backup singers, manager Col. Tom Parker, and the Memphis Mafia to concerts and events nationwide. To ensure smooth travels, Elvis kept pilots on standby to fly him anywhere at a moment’s notice.
The interior of Elvis Presley’s iconic 1962 Lockheed 1329 JetStar, Photo Credit: Octane Magazine NL/Facebook
Restoration Challenges Ahead
The jet needs major repairs. It currently lacks an engine, and many cockpit parts are missing. Despite this, the auction listing encourages buyers to see its potential to become a one-of-a-kind Elvis exhibit.
Authenticity Included
The sale includes Aircraft Security Agreement documents signed by Elvis himself. This adds a special layer of authenticity for devoted fans.
Elvis’s Love for Aviation
Elvis’s passion for flying was well known. Besides this JetStar, he owned a custom Convair 880 named “Lisa Marie” after his daughter, plus another JetStar. These planes carried the nicknames “Hound Dog 1” and “Hound Dog 2,” honoring one of his most famous songs.
Honoring a Legendary Legacy
Mecum Auctions stresses Elvis’s lasting impact on music history. They describe this jet as a rare chance to celebrate and preserve his remarkable legacy. For Elvis fans, this auction offers more than just a sale—it presents an opportunity to honor an American icon.
