1955 Marilyn Monroe Salesman's-Sample Calendar

Sold For:

$296

Year:

1955

Auction:

2014 Spring

Lot #:

1545

Category:

Historical/Political/Pop Culture/Americana

Salesman's-sample calendar featuring the famous nude pose of Marilyn Monroe, albeit with a lace overprint so that the calendar could be mass marketed. The sample calendar, printed on thin glossy stock, features an advertising panel at the top and a calendar section at the base. Both the title of the calendar ( The Lure of Lace ) and its model number ("No. 1562") are noted in print at the top. The story behind the nude photo of Marilyn, plus the various prices for the calendar (based upon the number ordered) appear in print on the reverse. These calendars were very popular in 1954 and 1955, so popular that one of the calendar salesmen even appeared on the television program What's My Line (the segment can be seen on YouTube at this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zY-8WpOJt0 ). The calendar (20 x 12 inches) displays a few slight creases throughout and is in Excellent condition overall. Reserve $200. Estimate $400+. SOLD FOR $296