NEW YORK — Roy Rogers’ stuffed horse, Trigger, has been sold at auction in New York City for more than $266,000.
Christie’s says Rogers’ faithful companion was bought by Omaha-based RFD-TV at an auction Wednesday of items from the now- closed Roy Rogers and Dale Evans Museum in Branson, Mo.
RFD-TV calls itself “Rural America’s Most Important Network,” and the cable channel’s chief financial officer said Rogers reflects the company’s values. CFO Steve Campione said the company hopes to start its own museum and is looking to buy more Rogers items at auction.
Rogers had Trigger preserved with taxidermy in 1965. The presale estimate for the horse was $100,000 to $200,000.
The auction, which continues today, also features another type of horsepower — Rogers’ 1964 Bonneville convertible adorned with collectible silver dollars, its door handles and gear shift replaced by silver-plated pistols.
Other items for sale included Rogers’ and Evans’ performance outfits; the preserved remains of Rogers’ dog Bullet; about 60 pairs of cowboy boots; and the Jeep “Nellybelle” from the Roy Rogers TV show.
