Cecil B. DeMille Pacific Railroad "Last Spike" Metal Replica....

Description

Cecil B. DeMille Pacific Railroad "Last Spike" Metal Replica. Vintage Pacific Railroad spike replica made of gold-hued metal and measuring 6" long. The film was based on the experiences of civil engineer Charles H. Sharman, who worked to join Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroads at Promontory Summit, Utah Territory from 1966 through 1869. The golden spike ceremony on May 10th, 1869 commemorated the event, which was recreated in the film. The production used the same golden spike created for the celebration, on loan from Stanford University. After filming, DeMille had several replicas made of the spike to give away as mementos of the production. This particular replica, kept by DeMille for decades, is engraved with "Last Spike" on the head. It also features the names of the officers and directors of the railroad construction along the shank including the following text: "The Pacific Railroad ground broken Jany (sic) 8th 1863, and completed May 8th 1869". A photo of one of the replicas is showcased in the comprehensive book Cecil B. DeMille: The Art of the Hollywood Epic. Spike exhibits some oxidation and minor chipping at the head. Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions.

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