Monroe/DiMaggio Honeymoon Memento To Be Sold

CHICAGO--(BW SportsWire)--Oct. 12, 1999--

In 1954, the cost of a pair of nylon stockings was pocket change. In a few weeks, just one stocking of a vintage set may sell for over $3,000. On November 18 and 19, 1999 Mastro Fine Sports Auctions will auction a stocking worn by Marilyn Monroe on her honeymoon night after marrying the legendary baseball player, Joe DiMaggio.

It was January 14, 1954 and Ernie Sharp couldn't believe his luck. First, Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio had spent their honeymoon night at his out-of-the-way Clifton Motel in Pasa Robles,California. Now, the next day, standing in the room just vacated by Monroe and DiMaggio, Sharp spied one of Marilyn's stockings in the wastebasket.

Sharp retrieved the stocking and a few days later sent it to his good friend Charlie who has had the stocking in his possession for 46 years.

"We just couldn't believe we had something of hers," said the stocking's current owner referring to Monroe. "You'd have to understand how it was back then. They were like royalty."

"This item is one of those rare pieces that carries crossover potential from two distinct collecting groups," said William Mastro, principal of the Oak Brook, IL based auction house. "We've experienced interest from both sports and Hollywood memorabilia enthusiasts."

The stocking is accompanied by correspondence and collaborating historical facts that appear to confirm it was worn by Monroe on that famous evening. The minimum bid is $500.

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