The Original 1955 Marilyn Monroe Calendar, Framed and Preserved

Elevate your collection with this exquisite piece of Hollywood history: the original 1955 Marilyn Monroe calendar featuring her iconic pose photographed by Tom Kelley. This rare and timeless artifact has been expertly preserved in a stunning display. It is professionally double-matted and framed under ultraviolet-protected plexiglass, ensuring its vibrant red and tan colors, and pristine condition for generations to enjoy. We purchased it for its originality and exceptional condition. These are not easily located : most are well-done reproductions, made to look from the period; this one is fully original and every month of the calendar is fully intact and in fabulous, untouched condition. 

The History of the 1955 Marilyn Monroe Calendar

This 1955 vintage collectible, featuring her iconic nude pose, holds a unique place in both Hollywood history and pop culture. The photograph used for the calendar, is known as “Golden Dreams,” and taken in 1949 by renowned photographer Tom Kelley. At the time, Marilyn was a struggling actress, far from the superstardom she would later achieve. Facing financial hardship, she agreed to pose nude for Kelley on a red velvet backdrop, earning $50 for the session.

Kelley initially sold the images to a calendar company, which produced what would become one of the most famous pin-up calendars in history. However, it wasn’t until Marilyn Monroe rose to fame in the early 1950s that the calendar attracted widespread attention. When it became public knowledge that the world’s new favorite blonde bombshell was "the" model, it caused a media frenzy.

Marilyn handled the situation with characteristic charm and honesty, openly admitting to the photos and explaining her circumstances at the time. Her candid approach endeared her to the public even more, solidifying her status as an icon of beauty.

The image gained another layer of fame when Hugh Hefner used it for the front cover of the  inaugural issue of Playboy magazine in 1953, without Marilyn's direct involvement. This move further cemented the photograph’s place in history, as it marked the birth of Playboy.

Today, the 1955 calendar stands as a symbol of Marilyn Monroe’s journey from struggling actress to global superstar. We believe these wonderful keepsakes are undervalued and of course overlooked by collectors. As such they're still affordable and make fabulous displays. Don't miss the opportunity to own this extraordinary piece of Americana, celebrating Marilyn Monroe’s legacy and her rise to international stardom.

Excellent value and just beautifully displayed.

Ships FedEx/UPS/USPS with Insurance.

Questions?5514863768!