Previous presidents’ cap and fedora among items expected to earn $1.2 million at auction

Presidential Memorabilia Up for Auction

Notable items like Ronald Reagan’s baseball cap and one of Lyndon B. Johnson’s distinctive fedoras are poised to command impressive sums at an upcoming auction.

In celebration of its 250th anniversary, Bonhams is set to auction pieces from the esteemed Louise Taper Collection. This private collection is regarded as one of the finest of its kind, particularly focused on presidential memorabilia.

The collection includes 46 lots, ranging from the earliest prints of the Bill of Rights to Reagan’s signed Marine One baseball cap, which is expected to sell between $800 and $1,200. The auction opens online on June 14 and is estimated to yield between $8,000 and $12,000 for the Bill of Rights prints alone.

Historically, Congress passed 12 constitutional amendments on September 25, 1789. Just days later, George Washington dispatched copies to all 13 states for ratification. The full text became available in the U.S. Federal Register the following day.

Among other highlights is Franklin D. Roosevelt’s pocket watch, which carries a value estimate of $20,000 to $30,000. His top hat, believed to have been worn at formal events including his 1933 inauguration, is also expected to attract bids in excess of $20,000.

Dwight D. Eisenhower’s Caxton fedora—a symbol of mid-century American presidential fashion—is included in the lot. Additionally, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ dessert plate from a state dinner for FDR is starting at $2,400. It’s suggested that she kept it as a personal memento reflecting the connection between the Roosevelt and Kennedy families.

Among other items is FDR’s straw boater hat, which was a gift from Eleanor Roosevelt to a couple who had served the family for many years.

For collectors of history, a piece of 1782 china once owned by George Washington is also being offered, with an estimated price tag of $50,000 to $80,000.