This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/24/2018
On April 27, 1960, Jesse Owens was the focus of the popular TV show “This is Your Life.” The show featured a celebrity guest who recounted his or her life story with host Ralph Edwards. Interspersed in the biography were surprise appearances by old friends and family from the guest’s past. Jesse's Owens appearance brought the Olympian back together with former teammates Ralph Metcalfe, Dave Albritton and Frank Wykoff, former coach Charles Riley and, of course, his extended family. At the conclusion of the show Jesse was presented with several gifts, and his wife Ruth presented with this 14-karat gold charm bracelet, courtesy of Marshall Jewelers of Fifth Avenue.
The exquisite bracelet features ten separate charms, each representing a particular moment in her husband’s life. A runner has “JR SPORTS JAMBOREE” engraved on the reverse; a stage set represents his appearances with Bill “Bojangles” Robinson in 1936; a running shoe has a list of his world records engraved within an opening locket; a record album indicates his hobby as a jazz disk jockey; and so on. One charm has a calendar of April
1960, marking the day the episode was broadcast (4/27/60) with a real
diamond. Three other charms are decorated with red ruby gemstones. Perhaps the most special charm of all to Owens and his beloved family has the names and dates of birth of his three daughters (Gloria, Beverly & Marlene) on one side, with his granddaughter's name (Donna) and age (2 1/2) on the reverse. Each intricately detailed and engraved charm is made from 14-karat gold (engraved on back "14K)") and mounted to an interlocking chain-motif bracelet. A very attractive way to celebrate the accomplishments of one of America’s greatest native sons.
Includes LOA signed by each of Jesse Owens' three daughters whose names reside on this charm.
Please see the presentation of this bracelet at the 22:10 mark in the video below.