Elvis gathers more fans each year, and many haven’t lived until they’ve made their pilgrimage to Graceland and Memphis for all things Elvis. Special souvenirs are usually available in January, when Elvis Presley Enterprises marks the birth and the death of the King. These are great to add to any collection of Elvis or rock and roll memorabilia. Don’t leave Memphis, though, without these must-have collectible items. And most of them are cheap…so you can even bring some home for your friends…or save the souvenirs for gag gifts at the office!
1. The Elvis Hip-gyrating Wall Clock, around $25
This clock is neon blue, but the attention factor makes it appropriate for any decor. Elvis’ hand is the minute hand and his guitar marks the hours. He’s in a neon blue/green Siits. Here’s the best part: the below-the-waist Elvis is below the clock. One leg is straight and one is bent, giving it the outline of chimes. On the hour (every hour), the Elvis clock does the hip moves that made him famous. These are very well-constructed. I’ve had mine for 12 years and Elvis is still shaking his hips.
2. Elvis and Richard Nixon Postcard, 50 cents
This is one of the best finds, but you may have to look through a lot of postcards of Elvis to find this one. Richard Nixon is president and Elvis is classical 70s Elvis. He shows up at the White House in his usual rhinestone stage outfit. Legend has it that Elvis just decided to go visit the White House and the Memphis Mafia drove straight from Memphis to D.C. Elvis had to wait for a moment, but was granted the chance to talk to Nixon and share concerns about drugs and young people. The most ironic part of this picture is that Elvis was given an honorary Drug Enforcement Agent badge by Nixon. Frame this for the foyer. Or even use it as this year’s Christmas card, just photoshopping the heads of your family around the King and the President.
3. A copy of Elvis’ will, $5 (if still available)
In all my years of visiting tourist traps and souvenirs, this is the most macabre I have ever ran across. I got a copy of Elvis’ will as it was filed in probate. Lot of legalese. I wasn’t so lucky…but maybe you’ll find your name there and learn that Everythingng wasn’t left to Lisa Marie after all!
4. Some version of the “Let Me be Your” Teddy Bear, price varies widely
Some are small and just have the “Official Graceland merchandise” tag. Others wind up and feature Elvis playing the son. Some are keychains and some are dressed like Elvis. (Those are my favorite ones, complete with a gold cape and rhinestones.) These range in price from $2.99 to $100 and more. But it’s a very personal Elvis gift that you can sleep with every night.
5. “Are You Hungry Tonight” Cookbook, $23
Elvis can’t help you if you’re lonely, but this book will help you eat like the King on those nights when you’re wanting a snack. The cookbook includes full meals that were favorites at Elvis’ dining table. You’ll also find the legendary fried peanut-butter-and-banana sandwiches. This will push “The Joy of Cooking” right off your bookshelf.
Enjoy your pilgrimage to visit Elvis, whether it be in January or August.