Legendary baseball player Joe DiMaggio forged a relationship with Vic “Chic” Masi as children, fueled by mutual admiration. Their unbreakable bond developed from the bustling streets of their native New York to the sunny shores of California during later years of success. In 1954, a touch of glamor and charm enhanced their relationship when DiMaggio married the inimitable Marilyn Monroe.

Marilyn bonded deeply with Chic, his cherished wife Marguerite, and their young daughter Dolores, and their Sherman Oaks home became a haven for Marilyn and Joe away from the pressures of Hollywood and the media.

Marilyn graciously invited Chic into the world of cinema, inviting him to appear as an extra in several of her iconic films, including the beloved classic Monkey Business directed by the legendary Howard Hawks.

Over the years, Marilyn showered her beloved friends with gifts of exquisite jewelry and rare collectibles. Every piece tells a story of friendship, love, and legacy. 

Among the treasures preserved by the Masi’s daughter is an 8 mm film reel capturing a candid golf lesson Monroe took with the Masis, a photo of Masi and Monroe roller skating on the set of Monkey Business, and a photo of Marguerite and Marilyn behind the scenes of her iconic number “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend” in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

A piece of the history of the Masi’s beautiful relationship with Monroe appeared in a 2016 auction at Julien’s, where a canceled check from Marilyn to Chic hit the auction block.

This beautiful piece is but one example of the enduring legacy of DiMaggio, the Masis, and Monroe’s timeless friendship that continues to captivate hearts around the world.