#36 • Colonel Harland Sanders Loyal Order of Moose Life Member Money Clip
Part of The Colonel Sanders Artifact Collection (live auction by The Menish Group Auction & Real Estate)
High bid $1,400.00
Status: Sold
DESCRIPTION Gold-tone money clip engraved and designed as a miniature life membership certificate honoring Colonel Harland D. Sanders. The face reads: "This Is To Certify That Col. Harland D. Sanders Is A Life Member Of Shelbyville, Ky. Lodge No. 1715 Loyal Order Of Moose." The piece features decorative border engraving, the Loyal Order of Moose emblem, and facsimile signature of the lodge secretary. Produced as a commemorative presentation item recognizing Sanders' status as a life member of the organization. HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE This personalized money clip documents Colonel Sanders' involvement in one of America's most prominent fraternal and civic organizations. Founded in 1888, the Loyal Order of Moose became known for its charitable work, community service, and extensive network of local lodges throughout the United States and Canada. Sanders' life membership reflects his longstanding ties to the Shelbyville community, where he lived and built the Kentucky Fried Chicken enterprise. Membership in civic, charitable, and fraternal organizations played an important role in the personal and professional relationships that helped shape many twentieth-century business leaders. STORY & CONTEXT Throughout his life, Colonel Sanders maintained close connections to Kentucky communities and local organizations. Even after achieving international fame, he remained deeply associated with Shelbyville, where the Kentucky Fried Chicken headquarters and corporate operations were located for many years. This money clip was created not merely as an accessory but as a recognition piece commemorating Sanders' standing within the Shelbyville Moose Lodge. Such personalized presentation items were often given to distinguished members in acknowledgment of service, support, or longstanding affiliation with the organization. As a named and specifically engraved piece, it offers a glimpse into the community relationships that remained important to Sanders throughout his career. PROVENANCE From the preserved personal collection associated with Colonel Harland Sanders and Claudia Sanders, maintained by the Settle family at Blackwood Hall. The collection was preserved through the longstanding relationship between the Sanders and Settle families and remained together for decades. CONDITION Gold-tone finish remains bright with light surface wear and minor handling marks consistent with age. Engraving and decorative details remain sharp and easily legible. Overall condition is very good and consistent with a preserved commemorative presentation piece.
