Memphis Press Scimitar Appraisal

Memphis Press-Scimitar Special Edition Newspaper: August 17, 1977

This item is an original full-front page section of the Memphis Press-Scimitar, dated Wednesday, August 17, 1977. This 'Special Edition' was published the day after Elvis Presley's death and features the prominent headline, 'A Lonely Life Ends on Elvis Presley Boulevard.' The newspaper is printed on standard groundwood newsprint, which has aged to a characteristic golden-brown or tanned patina due to acidity and light exposure. The layout includes a large black-and-white photograph of Elvis Presley in the upper right, multiple articles detailing the fan reaction at Graceland, and a boxed section titled 'A Tribute to Elvis.' Smaller photos at the bottom show mourning fans outside the estate. The condition of the item is fair to poor, showing significant age-related wear. Notable issues include a heavy horizontal fold across the center with associated tearing, chipping, and material loss along the crease, particularly in the middle section. The edges are brittle with several small nicks and tears. There are dark spots that may indicate foxing or moisture contact, and the overall color suggests a high degree of oxidation. Despite the physical damage, the text and primary imagery remain legible, making it a significant historical artifact of pop culture and 20th-century music history. This specific edition is highly sought after by Elvis Presley collectors due to its local Memphis origin and immediate proximity to the date of his passing.