Proceeds to Benefit Two California Schools

Although it wasn't atop his head--or even onboard--during the dramatic ditching in the Hudson, Captain Sullenberger's cap may still draw top dollar.  Online bidding for the hat has already topped 60 bids and is now over $5,500.

Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger and his wife Lorrie are capitalizing on his fame to raise funds and awareness for the local schools.  The listing on auction site Ebay says all of the money raised will go to "essential programs" at Dougherty Valley High School in San Ramon, CA, and Lockwood High School in Oakland, CA.

The auction page also notes that the well-worn cap "probably has more frequent flyer miles than you do" and comes in a clear plastic box for easy display.  There are no airline logos visible on the hat nor anything that would indicate it belonged to the famed pilot, save for Capt. Sullenberger's signature on the top and a handwritten note from the Sullenbergers. 

Bidding for the one-of-a-kind item ends Dec 14, 2009.  As of Dec 10, the bidding had reached $5,600 even though it was noted in the auction description: "No, we cannot promise that Capt. Sullenberger will personally deliver the hat. (But good for you for thinking of that.)"

FMI: http://www.ebay.com