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This distinctive piece consists of a long dark blue grosgrain ribbon with decorative gold-tone metal ends.
One end features a circular medallion displaying the Seal of the City of New York, surrounded by a blue enamel border reading:
“OFFICE OF THE MAYOR • CITY OF NEW YORK”
The opposite end is an elongated, pointed gold-tone metal piece bearing the facsimile signature of Edward I. Koch.
The two decorative ends are joined by one continuous ribbon, indicating that the piece was designed as a substantial ceremonial or presentation-style bookmark/page marker, with the ribbon placed between the pages of a book and the weighted decorative ends remaining outside.
The bookmark comes with its original fitted presentation box, featuring a blue interior that matches the ribbon.
This does not appear to be an ordinary tourist souvenir. The Mayor’s Office insignia, Koch signature, presentation-style construction, and fitted box suggest an item produced for official, ceremonial, promotional, or presentation use during the Koch administration.
The exact occasion for which these were distributed is currently unknown.
Provenance
This piece came from the estate of a NY Assemblyman, whose estate contained numerous political, governmental, military, commemorative, and presentation-related items.
Because of that provenance, this bookmark may have been received in connection with a civic, political, military, governmental, or ceremonial event.
No documentation specifically identifying the occasion accompanies this item, so the exact circumstances of presentation are not being represented as known.
Edward I. Koch
Edward Irving Koch served as the 105th Mayor of New York City from 1978 to 1989, serving three terms.
Koch became one of the most recognizable New York political figures of the late 20th century and remains closely associated with New York City history of the 1970s and 1980s.
Items directly connected with the Mayor’s Office are collectible among enthusiasts of:
- New York City history
- Political memorabilia
- Edward Koch memorabilia
- NYC government memorabilia
- Mayoral presentation pieces
- Civic awards and gifts
- Vintage New York collectibles
Important Signature Note
The Edward Koch signature on the pointed metal end appears to be a facsimile or engraved reproduction incorporated into the piece.
It is not being represented as a hand-signed autograph.
Materials
Gold-tone metal
Blue enamel
Blue grosgrain ribbon
Original presentation box
No precious-metal hallmark is visible in the photographs, so the metal is being described conservatively as gold-tone metal rather than solid gold, gold-filled, or gold-plated.
Approximate Era
Edward I. Koch / NYC Mayor’s Office ribbon bookmarkNYC Mayor’s Office seal medallion endKoch facsimile-signature pointed endOriginal fitted presentation boxOnly the items shown in the photographs are included.
Condition Details
The bookmark remains in attractive vintage condition.
Please expect:
- Light scratching to the polished gold-tone surfaces
- Minor surface wear from age
- Normal aging of ribbon
- Wear and discoloration to the original box
- Small marks and storage wear consistent with age
The enamel Mayor’s Office seal appears bright and visually attractive.
The ribbon remains connected to both metal ends.
The item has not been aggressively polished or restored, which is preferable for vintage political memorabilia.
Please enlarge and examine all photos, as they are an important part of the condition description.
