LOS ANGELES, CA.- Never before offered to the public, Helen Hayes' Tony Award from 1947, the debut year of the Tony's, will be auctioned on April 2, 2013, through Nate D. Sanders Auctions. Helen Hayes is one of only four people who have earned "EGOT" status (winning Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony awards). She's also the first woman to have won all four awards.

"This is probably the most important and historic award in Broadway theater," said Nate D. Sanders, who is auctioning the award. "Over 12 million people buy tickets to Broadway shows every year, drawing tourists from all over the world. It's one of the cultural touchstones for New York, the city most people visit in America. This award represents that rich cultural history."

Called the "First Lady of the American Theater," Hayes took home this Tony in 1947 for Best Actress in "Happy Birthday". Made of sterling silver by Tiffany & Co., the award is shaped like a make-up compact, designed to hold theater make-up. The award took on its permanent shape as a round medallion after just 2 years, making this award spectacularly rare.

"This award is considered 1/3 of the Triple Crown of Acting," said Nate D. Sanders, who is auctioning the award. "Helen Hayes won it for Best Actress, as she did the Oscar and Emmy awards. It's a feat only a handful of people have ever achieved."