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Vintage 1950s Rol‑Rite promotional pen engraved “America’s Favorite Redhead” and “Stolen from Kitty Kallen.” This pen comes directly from the New York publicity office of Budd Granoff, who represented several major entertainers during the 1950s.
Item Details
Original Rol‑Rite pen
Gold and black body with red clicker
Engraved “America’s Favorite Redhead” and “Stolen from Kitty Kallen”
Clip marked “BB Rol Rite”
Includes original ink cartridge (empty)
Excellent pre‑owned vintage condition
A rare and authentic piece of 1950s entertainment promotional history
⭐ Provenance
This pen belonged to my aunt, who worked for Budd Granoff for 11 years in New York as his executive secretary during the 1950s. She regularly interacted with entertainers and was well‑liked for her warm personality and wonderful sense of humor. She was shy, gentle, and deeply devoted to her family, and she kept several promotional items from the Granoff office among her belongings.
Included with her things were this pen, her résumé listing Budd Granoff as her last employer, and original office envelopes from 36 Central Park South.Photos of these items are included in the listing for provenance only and are not part of the sale. We are selling the pen only.
Why This Pen Is Special
Kitty Kallen was one of the most popular vocalists of the 1940s and 1950s, and authentic promotional items tied to her career are uncommon. This pen is a charming example of the playful, novelty‑style publicity pieces used in the entertainment world at the time — especially with the red clicker that inspired the “redhead” joke. 5 1/4" long.
A wonderful addition for collectors of:
Kitty Kallen memorabilia
Big band and 1950s music history
Vintage promotional items
New York show‑business ephemera
