Carter Center Auction Raises $1.5 Million

ATLANTA (AP) — A recent auction held by The Carter Center has raised more than $1.5 million to benefit the not-for-profit's worldwide health and peace programs.

Center officials say the highest bid was for an original painting by former President Jimmy Carter, which sold for $210,000. More than 150 items were offered during the auction, which was held last weekend in Vail, Colorado, during the annual Carter Center Weekend.

Other top bids included $145,000 for a collection of books by or about 31 presidents with original signatures and $130,000 for a fly-fishing experience with the Carters. A handmade coffee table by Carter also drew $110,000.

The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by the former president and his wife, Rosalynn, in partnership with Emory University.