Per Wikipedia – The Kentucky Derby is a Grade I stakes race for three year-old Thoroughbred horses, held annually in Louisville, Kentucky, United States on the first Saturday in May, capping the two-week-long Kentucky Derby Festival and is widely considered the most prestigious horse race in the world. The race is one and a quarter miles (2 km) at Churchill Downs. Colts and geldings carry 126 pounds (57.2 kg) and fillies 121 pounds (54.9 kg).[1] The race is known in the United States as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports” or “The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports” for its approximate duration, and is also called “The Run for the Roses” for the blanket of roses draped over the winner. It is the first leg of the United States Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing and is followed by the Preakness Stakes then the Belmont Stakes. The attendance at the Kentucky Derby ranks first in North America and usually surpasses the attendance of all other stakes races including the Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes and the Breeders’ Cup, for more information see American Thoroughbred Racing top Attended Events.
I did not know how “HOT” Kentucky Derby collectibles are let alone how vast a collecting arena they span. Below are some of the top Kentucky Derby collectibles we have compiled and prices can range from a couple dollars to well into the thousands of dollars! If you are a beginning collector you can pickup some Derby Julep cups for under $100 and even a Kentucky Derby Barbie Doll for around $100 right now on eBay. Continue reading below to learn about the vast arena of Kentucky Derby Collectibles. 
Kentucky Derby Julep Cups and Glasses:
The first Julep cup commemorating the Kentucky Derby was produced in 1938. It is sometimes referred to as a “water glass” and was used in the Dining Room during the 1938 Derby. Top Julep collectibles – 1940 KY Derby Glass $12,800. 1945 KY Derby Glass, Tall $500, 1993 KY Derby Shooter with imprint $350. The first Shot Glass commemorating the Kentucky Derby was produced in 1987 and it is the introductory items that are most sought after and harder to come by. Details Here.
Kentucky Derby Race Programs:
Race programs dating back to the previous century, programs in mint condition prior to 1973 are rare and have long been a favorite of collectors. 1941 Derby Program, Very Good $350. 1977 Derby Program, Mint Signed $70. Details Here.
Kentucky Derby Collector Pins:
The first official derby “Logo” pin was issued in 1987. In 1993 the number of commemorative Derby pins was increased to three, and included a “Logo”, “Silks”, and “Crest” pin. The “Logo” and “Silks” pins continue to be part of a three pin set, while the third pin changes. For example, in 1995 it was called a “Rose” pin, and in 1996, a “3D” Pin. High production quantities during the first two years make the 1987 and 1988 pins plentiful. 1988 KY Derby Lapel Pin $6. 1998 KY Derby Limited Edition $20. Details Here.
Of course I have to include a yummy recipe for Mint Juleps!
2 tablespoons superfine sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
24 mint leaves, plus 4 sprigs for garnish
2 cups finely crushed ice
1 cup bourbon
Directions:
Combine sugar, lemon juice, and mint leaves in a pitcher. Crush well with a wooden spoon. Add ice and bourbon, and mix well. Pour into silver tumblers or Julep Cups, garnish with mint sprigs, and serve.
Enjoy your day at the races!!
