#5 • Personal Monogrammed Cufflink Set of Colonel Harland Sanders

Part of The Colonel Sanders Artifact Collection (live auction by The Menish Group Auction & Real Estate)

High bid $2,250.00

Status: Sold

DESCRIPTION Pair of gold-tone cufflinks featuring the intertwined initials "HD" for Harland David (as Claudia referred to him) in black and gold enamel. Retained in the original Swank presentation box. The cufflinks exhibit a circular design with monogrammed fronts and traditional swivel backs. HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE Personal accessories owned and worn by Colonel Harland Sanders offer insight into the carefully cultivated public image that became synonymous with his name. Throughout his later career, Sanders was rarely seen without his distinctive white suit, black string tie, and personalized accessories, which became part of one of the most recognizable personal brands in American business history. STORY & CONTEXT By the 1950s and 1960s, Colonel Sanders had transformed himself into both businessman and spokesperson, using his appearance as an extension of the Kentucky Fried Chicken brand. Monogrammed accessories such as these cufflinks reflect the personal style and attention to presentation that helped establish his public identity. Bearing the initials of Harland David Sanders, the cufflinks represent a personal item associated with the daily wardrobe of the Colonel during the years he traveled extensively promoting Kentucky Fried Chicken and serving as the public face of the company. PROVENANCE Originating from the Blackwood Hall collection, these cufflinks remained within the possession of the Settle family following their acquisition of the property directly from Colonel and Claudia Sanders. The set was preserved among other personal effects associated with Colonel Sanders prior to its public offering. CONDITION NOTES Light wear consistent with age and use. Minor surface wear present to the metal finish and enamel. Original Swank presentation box present with age-related wear.