$3,520
A certification card dated August 14, 1974, listing Elvis Presley as a member of the International Kenpo Karate Association and Presley’s rank as “7th Degree Black. " Signed on verso by Presley’s instructor, Ed Parker. Presley’s passion for karate began in 1958 when he was stationed in Germany and began taking lessons there with Hank Slomanski. Slomanski awarded Presley his first black belt in 1960. And while Presley's legitimacy for his rank over the years had come into question in martial arts circles, many who trained with Slomanski have stated that if anyone (including Presley) ever earned a black belt from Slomanski, you can bet it was earned. According to Parker, Presley wasn't asking for favors, but even if he had, Slomanski wouldn't have given him any. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Greg Page and a copy of the bill of sale from a previous owner. 2 1/4 by 3 1/2 inches Categories: Elvis Presley
Auctioneer:
Juliens Auctions
Date:
2015-05-15
