THE GOLD STANDARD in Space Auctions
Buzz Aldrin’s 18-karat gold Cartier model of the Apollo 11 Lunar Module Eagle, Sold by RR Auction in 2017 for $150k
Consign now for our next Space auction. Contact Jon today! (800) 937-3880 | Jon.Siefken@RRAuction.com
CONTENTS
Scientists and Inventors...............................................2
Apollo 11....................................................................57
Patents.......................................................................19
Apollo 12....................................................................69
Computer Hardware...................................................26
Apollo 14....................................................................69
Equipment and Hardware..........................................28
Apollo 15....................................................................70
Weapons and War......................................................29
Apollo 16....................................................................71
Aviation......................................................................37
Apollo 17....................................................................74
Space Models............................................................39
Apollo Astronauts.......................................................76
Lunar Photography.....................................................40
NASA Flight Directors................................................78
X- 15 .........................................................................41
Skylab........................................................................79
Mercury......................................................................42
Cosmonauts...............................................................80
Gemini........................................................................43
Soviet / Russian Hardware........................................82
Project Apollo Hardware & Spacesuit Parts...............45
Space Shuttle............................................................82
Project Apollo.............................................................52
Shuttle Hardware.......................................................90
Apollo 7......................................................................54
Viking.........................................................................91
Apollo 9......................................................................55
Miscellany..................................................................92
Apollo 10....................................................................57
Meteorites...............................................................107 Conditions of Sale....................................................140
Bob Eaton CEO, Acquisitions bob.eaton@rrauction.com Carla Eaton Owner, Auctioneer carla.eaton@rrauction.com Bobby Livingston Executive Vice President, Public Relations bobby.livingston@rrauction.com Bobby Eaton VP, Business Development Auctioneer, MA/Lic. #3214 bobby.eaton@rrauction.com Tricia Eaton Chief Marketing Officer tricia.eaton@rrauction.com Mandy Casey Finance Manager amanda.casey@rrauction.com Elizebeth Otto Consignment Director elizebeth.otto@rrauction.com Jon Siefken Consignment Director jon.siefken@RRAuction.com
Fiona Lenaire Administration Support Representative fiona.lenaire@rrauction.com
Matt Klein Filemaker Developer and IT Administrator matt.klein@rrauction.com
Sean Coleman Customer Experience Specialist & Assistant to the CMO sean.coleman@rrauction.com
Sue Recks Director of Customer Service, Accounts Receivable sue.recks@rrauction.com
Cecily Gruce Consignment Customer Service Representative cecily.gruce@rrauction.com
Amey Fuller Senior Staff Accountant amy.fuller@rrauction.com
Kevin Lessard Shipping Executive kevin.lessard@rrauction.com Bill White Lead Autograph Appraiser bill.white@rrauction.com Dan McCarthy Writer, Researcher dan.mccarthy@rrauction.com
Sarina Carlo Creative Director sarina.carlo@rrauction.com Nikki Brickett Photographer nikki.brickett@rrauction.com Leanne Baratier Production Assistant leanne.baratier@rrauction.com
Evan Mugford Writer evan.mugford@rrauction.com Robert S. Eaton Sr. 1940–2001
www.RRAuction.com | 1
scientists and inventors
Exceedingly rare postcard by the father of computer science, Alan Turing
2001. Alan Turing Autograph Letter Signed. Immensely influential British mathematician, cryptanalyst, and computer
scientist (1912–1954) considered the father of theoretical computer science and artificial intelligence; in 2019, it was announced that he would appear on the new £50 banknote, reflecting his importance in history. Extremely rare ALS, signed “Alan Turing,” one page on a 5.75 x 4 color postcard depicting an illuminated manuscript from Flavius Josephus’ Antiquities of the Jews, July 23, 1953. Letter to “Frau Dr F.M. Greenbaum (und Kinder),” sent from his Club Mediterranee holiday on Corfu. In full: “I hope you are all enjoying your selves as well as I am here at Corfu. It is tremendously hot and one wears bathing things all day.” In fine condition. Turing became a patient of the Jungian psychologist Dr. Franz Greenbaum in 1952, and became a friend of the family; in a letter from July 10th, he had written to the doctor’s daughter, Maria Greenbaum, about solving a solitaire puzzle. In Sara Turing’s pioneering 1959 biography of her son she noted that he ‘normally shirked letter-writing,’ and his autograph is indeed incredibly scarce in any form. What is especially notable about this example is the unexpected religious imagery, as Turing was an atheist. The first-century Romano-Jewish scholar Flavius Josephus, who commanded the Jewish forces at the Siege of Yodfat, is the namesake of the ‘Josephus Problem’ in computer science. Josephus describes a ‘counting-out game’ by which he and his soldiers, facing inevitable defeat, agreed upon an unusual suicide pact rather than surrender. Standing in a circle, the first soldier killed the man to his left. The next surviving soldier then killed the man to his left, and this pattern continued until Josephus was the lone survivor. The problem is thus: faced with the same situation, how could you determine where to position yourself in order to be the last man standing? Turing, who was fascinated by these types of algorithmic puzzles, surely knew of the ‘Josephus Problem’ and it is likely the reason he chose this specific postcard. More poignantly, it dates to less than a year before Turing’s own suicide—something he may have already been considering when he went to Corfu. Connecting mathematics through the ages, this is a truly remarkable piece. Starting Bid $5000
2 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
First edition of Superspace & Supergravity, signed by editor Stephen Hawking
2002. Stephen Hawking Signed Book. Signed book: Superspace & Supergravity: Proceedings of the Nuffield Workshop, Cambridge, June 16-July 12, 1980. First edition. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1981. Hardcover with dust jacket, 6 x 9, 527 pages. Signed on the first free end page in black ink, “Stephen Hawking,” and signed and inscribed by Judy Fella, Hawking’s first secretary and later his nursing coordinator, “11 May 1981, To Eric, With love and affection, Judy.” In fine condition, with light rubbing to dust jacket extremities. The volume contains a series of mathematical papers on superspace and supergravity presented at the workshop organized by Hawking, and the interesting pictorial dust jacket reproduces a chalkboard doodled on by the attendees: it includes a caricature of Hawking, and his assistant is depicted as ‘one of the Fella’s.’ A fabulous, rarely seen autograph from one of the towering scientific figures of modern times. Starting Bid $2500
www.RRAuction.com | 3
Alfred Nobel directs dynamite production in Italy
2003. Alfred Nobel Autograph Document Signed. Important partially handwritten and twice-signed document in French,
signed “Alfred Nobel” and “A. Nobel,” one page both sides, 8.25 x 10.75, January 24, 1873, in which Nobel gives permission for the production of dynamite in Italy. The agreement entails that a company (“anonymous Italian society for the production of dynamite”) is to be founded, in which Alfred Nobel will receive 1,200 shareholdings, while the other shall receive 340 shareholdings. Nobel concludes by clarifying that this agreement does not, in any way, restrict the Nobel patent for the dynamite. The first page and a half, written in another hand, concerns the shares of the company. The concluding portion, written in Nobel’s hand (the first portion in ink over pencil), in full (translated): “Good for three hundred and forty dividend shares of the anonymous Italian Dynamite Society against the twelve hundred shares assigned to me by the Society’s action on January 24, 1873. Alfred Nobel, P.S. It is understood that my signature under this letter and on the action of the Society today in no way grants the right to Mr. Carstens and Mr. Boardmann to file for a patent of an invention that was mine, whether on their own or via a proxy. A. Nobel.” In fine condition, with a crease to the lower right corner, and a light stain at the bottom of the hinge. Starting Bid $2500
4 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
“I found the mathematical correlation of gravitation and electricity”—Einstein proclaims the success of his Unified Field Theory
2004. Albert Einstein Autograph Letter Signed. ALS in German, signed “Albert,” one page both sides, 5.5 x 7.25,
Hamburg-Amerika Linie letterhead, January 1932. Significant letter to his sister Maja. Writing from Los Angeles as he disembarked from his boat for his second visit to Cal Tech, Einstein communicates his confidence and inner thoughts about his most recent work on ‘The Unified Field Theory of Gravity and Electricity’ (published in two parts in 1931: Weil *182 and *185). Written in collaboration with mathematician Walter Meyer, the theory presented a new formalism in which the fifth dimension was no longer an ‘extension of the physical continuum.’ This theory and work is deemed one of Einstein’s major scientific papers. Einstein here announces that over the summer of 1931, “I found the mathematical correlation of gravitation and electricity.” In order to reach this new breakthrough, Einstein says “I had to drop a great deal of what I had patched together with great pains over the last three years”; and in commenting generally on the problematic of Unified Field Theory, Einstein avers that “The more closely one looks, the deeper are the abysses.” The present letter is historically significant as it is probably Einstein’s first written statement about the completion of this work on Unified Field Theory. Having begun the letter by declaring that “life in Germany is becoming ever more problematic,” Einstein concludes in stating that he is reading a history of the Jews, which he finds “as horrible as it is mysterious.” In fine condition, with minor paper loss along the left edge affecting none of the handwriting. Starting Bid $1000
www.RRAuction.com | 5
“It does not seem possible to me, that we can infer fundamental principles of nature from the distribution of the planets” 2005. Albert Einstein Typed Letter Signed.
TLS in German, signed “A. Einstein,” one page, 8.5 x 11, The Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton letterhead, January 15, 1942. Letter to Vaclav V. Kalcik. Responding to the content of his correspondent’s manuscript—apparently arguing that the distance of the planets from the Sun suggest a priori design principle of Nature—Einstein here tersely dismisses the argument by analogizing a planet to a shell shot out of a cannon. Since such a projectile can be directed as one wishes, Einstein argues that it is possible to affect the orbit of the planets through similar “arbitrary actions”: therefore “there can be no principal law from which one could draw conclusions about the elementary laws [of planetary orbits].” The argument that the distribution of the planets in our solar system is the result of the working of a higher intelligence goes back at least as far as Plato and was perhaps most famously argued in the modern era by Kepler. Einstein’s argument here suggests that he saw the present order of the solar system more as a matter of chance rather than as a product of divine design. In very good to fine condition, with scattered light foxing and soiling, and a vertical slice to the lower left corner area repaired with old tape on the reverse. Starting Bid $500
2006. Albert Einstein Autograph Postcard Signed. ANS in German, signed in full,
“Albert Einstein,” one page on a 5.75 x 3.75 Hamburg-Amerika Linie postcard, December 1931. Einstein thanks the captain of the steamship “Portland” he has traveled on for the many conversations. A candid photograph of Einstein and the captain is affixed to the right side; the front of the postcard depicts a Hamburg-America line ship, likely the Portland. The Portland was in fact the boat Einstein took to travel to Cal Tech. In very good to fine condition, with some trivial surface loss along the left edge. Starting Bid $300
6 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Color portrait of the genius, signed in 1947 2007. Albert Einstein Signed Photograph. Rare color vintage 4.75 x 7
paperstock photo of Einstein, signed at the bottom in fountain pen, “A. Einstein, 1947.� Corner-mounted, matted, and framed with an unsigned portrait to an overall size of 22.5 x 14.5. In fine condition, with staple holes to each corner. A fantastic close-up portrait of Einstein, rarely seen in the full-color variety. Starting Bid $1000
www.RRAuction.com | 7
Gorgeous 1934 Einstein etching signed by subject and artist 2008. Albert Einstein Signed Etching. Striking circa 1934 portrait etching of Einstein by J. J. Muller, 7.5 x 9.5, signed in the lower border in fountain pen by the genius subject, “Albert Einstein,” and in pencil by the artist, “J. J. Muller.” Attractively matted and framed to an overall size of 12.75 x 14.75. In fine condition. A fantastic portrait of Einstein, created by a well-regarded printmaker active in Germany during the Weimar period. Starting Bid $1000
“I do not intend to work again on the subjects on which I have published”
2009. Charles Darwin Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “Charles Darwin,” one page, 5 x 8, Down letterhead, April 26, 1876. Letter to James Edmund Harting, thanking him for manuscript notes and responding to a query about future projects. In full: “I am much obliged for your note & the very kind wish to aid me, together with the M.S. notes. As far as I can see I do not intend to work again on the subjects on which I have published, but reserve the little thought which is left me for somewhat new matter.” In fine condition, with two small pin holes to the upper left corner area. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Darwin’s own hand. Noted naturalist and ornithologist (with a specialty in falconry), Harting was the editor of the Zoologist (1877-96) and himself a prolific author of over 2,000 articles. After 1876, Darwin did in fact break new ground in his writing, basically publishing only on botanical topics. Starting Bid $1000
8 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Darwin forwards scientific correspondence with his mentor, the geologist Charles Lyell
2010. Charles Darwin Letter Signed with Autograph Postscript. LS signed “Charles Darwin,” three pages on two
adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, Down letterhead, December 26, 1876. Letter to Katharine Murray Lyell, responding to her request for any correspondence that may have passed between him and his mentor, the geologist Charles Lyell. In part: “I used formerly to burn all letters excepting a few, and such as I have kept from Lyell I now send. From the year 1862 I preserved all letters, and wish I had done so earlier. I am thus enabled to send all the letters from Lyell from 1862 to 1869 inclusive…Although I valued most highly all the letters I received from Lyell, I suspect that they are much too special to be of any interest to the public; but I am at present so busy that I have not had time to read over a single one.” After prominently signing at the conclusion, he adds a handwritten postscript: “P.S. The letters are so heavy that I have been forced to put them in 2 parcels.” In fine condition. Mrs. Lyell was Charles Lyell’s daughter-in-law, and she was organizing material for the projected biography of Charles Lyell, ‘Life, Letters, and Journals of Sir Charles Lyell,’ which ultimately appeared in 1881. Lyell was Darwin’s mentor and later his good friend. Lyell’s writings on geology heavily influenced him, and Darwin himself began his scientific life as a geologist (on board the Beagle). Despite being willing to send the letters he has, Darwin expresses concern in this letter that their content may be too specialized (i.e. scientific) for the general public. An excellent letter with significant content and a desirable full signature. Starting Bid $500
www.RRAuction.com | 9
Handsomely bound first edition of The Descent of Man, presented with Darwin’s autograph
2011. Charles Darwin Signature and Book. Desirable ink
signature, “Dear Sir, yours faithfully, Charles Darwin,” on an offwhite 3.5 x 1.5 slip, removably corner-mounted inside the front of the custom-made cloth clamshell case for the first edition, first issue of Darwin’s landmark book, The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex, in Two Volumes. London: John Murray, 1871. Two volumes bound in three-quarter tan calf, gilt spine, marbled boards, red labels, raised bands, speckled edges, 5.25 x 7.25, totaling 898 pages. First edition points of issue include “transmitted” on line 1 of page 297, Vol. I; printer’s note on verso of half-title of Vol. II; and author’s postscript tipped in on page ix-x of Vol. II. Autographic condition: fine. Book condition: VG/None, with edgewear, some rubbing and scratching to leather, occasional mild foxing, and small ownership labels to front pastedowns. A handsomely bound first issue of an immensely important book—the first of Darwin’s works to include the word “evolution,” on the second page of the first volume. Starting Bid $300
Carrel forwards a formula for treating battle wounds during WWI 2012. Alexis Carrel Typed Letter Signed. French surgeon and biologist (1873-1944)
who won the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1912 for his work related to the transplantation of blood vessels and organs. World War I-dated TLS signed “A. Carrel,” one page, 8.25 x 11, December 19, 1916. Written from the “Hopital Temporaire 21, Rond-Royal, Compiegne,” a letter to Colonel A. E. Bradley of the U.S. Army Medical Corps, providing the formula for treating battle wounds, in full: “I have just received your letter of Dec. 16th. The formula for making the wax paraffine mixture similar to Ambrine is as follow: Paraffine melting at 52° [centigrade] — 18 gr Paraffine melting at 40°— 6 gm Beeswax…… — 2 gr Castor Oil………. — 1 gr
The mixture should be sterilized at about 125° C and kept in closed jars. To use on a wound it should be melted at 60 or 70° C. Apply on the surface of the wound with a brush when it is still very fluid. I was very sorry to not have been able to see more of you when you were in Compiegne. I will always remember with great pleasure our meeting, and I hope to see you again in Europe or in America.” In very good to fine condition, with creasing to the right half, and two paperclip impressions to the top edge. During the first World War, Carrel served as a Major in the French Army Medical Corps and devised the widely used ‘CarrelDakin’ method of treating war wounds. In 1935, in collaboration with aviation pioneer Charles Lindbergh, he devised a machine for preserving animal organs outside the body. The Lindbergh-Carrel perfusion pump led to the development of the heart-lung machine, which allows a heart to be stopped for open-heart surgery. The recipient, Colonel Bradley, was part of a four-man military medical team sent to England in 1916 to study British wartime medical procedures. After the U.S. entered the war Bradley was promoted to Brigadier General and appointed Chief Surgeon of U.S. forces in France. Starting Bid $200 10 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Fatherly advice for Samuel Bard, who would become George Washington’s personal physician— “It is highly Imprudent and little short of madness for a young gentleman to precipitate himself into a married state eggd on by a barbarous & unreasonable Passion”
2013. Samuel Bard: John Bard Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “Jno. Bard,” three pages, 7.25 x 9, May 27, 1765. Letter to “Mr. Samuel Bard, Student in Physick at the University of Edinburgh,” written by his father John, in part: “I have received both your letters of March and April the first containing an acct of the situation you stand in in your own opinion to Miss Polly Lester I very much approve of that Delicacy you Express upon this occasion and make no doubt that the principles of candour and honour will allways Influence your conduct in life but in this Instance I think you have nothing to reproach your self with...I dare say your own observations have convinced you before this time that the marrying without affection merely for the sake of Interest is sordid, & vile. it is highly Imprudent and little short of madness for a young gentleman to precipitate himself into a married state eggd on by a barbarous & unreasonable Passion. that in many Instances is to Extravagant to be very properly called the fever of the soul. your Silence is as conclusive as if you had wrote actions speak louder than words nor do I know how you could well have framed a letter upon this Subject perhaps of all others it is the most difficult and might perhaps had a wors effect than to let in die away insensibly. on your return I would advise an Easie friendly behavior, but avoid any thing particular. I believe no occasion will offer to make Verball or particular explination necessary if it should you can with a better grace do it in the course of a conversation than by Writing. I am much obliged to you for the draft of the paper mill you sent me I wish you would acquaint your self with the whole of that business together with the Expence of carrying it on and the profits which attend it. I have given you a Credit upon Mildred & Roberts for a hundred pounds Sterling drawn the third of April which I hope before this time is come.” In very good condition, with almost complete separation (and some old tape) to the hinge, and seal-related paper loss to the integral address leaf affecting one word of text. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 11
“I find that color has but little to do with the recognition of efficiency”
2014. George Washington Carver Typed Letter Signed. TLS signed “G. W. Carter,” one page, 8.5 x 11, Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute letterhead, January 21, 1930. Letter to Henry H. Overton of Detroit, Michigan, in part: “I am sorry that you have been ill and hope that you are quite yourself again by this time. I have had a rather acute attack of the ‘flu,’ but I am feeling much better at this time. The weather has been rather cold. It is raining today and will no doubt turn cold. You must take care of yourself as best you can. I am pleased to learn that Mr. Ford is taking on some of the men that he laid off. I wish all of them could get back to work or fin[d] work else where. I think it an excellent thing for you to begin to think more seriously about the consummation of your ideas. To be sure, you must prepare well, as you can accomplish so much more when well prepared then when you have to strain along just about help doing things. I wish I could meet your instructor in metalaurgy. I dare say that he is not only competent but a fine man. I am very certain that as you study white people, you will come more and more definitely fixed in your present observations. I find that color has but little to do with the recognition of efficiency, and we are getting to be recognized more and more.” In fine condition, with short splits to the tops of the vertical folds. Starting Bid $200
Rare letter by the pioneering researcher of radioactivity 2015. Pierre Curie Autograph Letter Signed. French physicist (1859–1906) best known for his pioneering investigation of radioactivity, who shared the 1903 Nobel Prize in Physics with his wife, Marie Curie. ALS in French, signed “P. Curie,” one page, 5 x 8, Faculte de Sciences de Paris letterhead, April 7, 1905. Letter to the secretary of the Royal Society of Surgery and Medicine, in full (translated): “It will not be possible for me to attend the banquet marking the centenary of the ‘Royal Society of Surgery and Medicine.’—I beg you to transmit my excuses to the president and members of the Society.—I thank them very sincerely for the honor that they have done me by inviting me to this anniversary banquet. I beg you to accept, Monsieur Secretary, my most sincere salutations.” Handsomely double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 16 x 13.5. In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
“I have always regarded Professor S.F.B. Morse as one of the outstanding pioneers in the electrical art” 2016. Lee de Forest Typed Letter Signed. TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, Lee de Forest Laboratories, Inc. letterhead, February 20, 1943. Letter to George Shanks. In part: “I have always regarded Professor S. F. B. Morse as one of the outstanding pioneers in the electrical art, and particularly in the art of communications. Although I am informed that he was not actually the first to send telegraph signals over a wire, he was unquestionably the first to visualize the commercial possibilities of communication by such means…As a result of Morse’s genius, the entire globe was recuced [sic] in diameter in the ratio of months, by steamship transportation of mail, to a few seconds. His contribution to civilization can never be adequately measured.” In fine condition, with light edge toning, and three file holes to the left side. Starting Bid $200
12 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Edison and his vice president pose in 1913
2017. Thomas Edison and Carl H. Wilson Signed Photograph. Fantastic vintage matte-finish 8.5 x 6.5 photo of Thomas
Edison seated with his employee Carl H. Wilson (vice president and general manager of Thomas A. Edison, Inc.), affixed to its original 10.5 x 9 mount, signed on the mount in ink, “Thos. A. Edison” and “C. H. Wilson, 12/5/13.” Inherent to the lower right corner of the image in white text is “Copyright by Thos. A. Edison.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 17 x 14. In fine condition, with a couple of light creases to the lower left corner of the mount. Thomas A. Edison, Inc. was the primary holding company for Edison’s varied manufacturing concerns, which ranged from phonographs to storage batteries. A desirable image boasting a bold Edison ‘umbrella’ autograph. Starting Bid $200
The 21-year-old Edison sells the rights to his very first successful invention—the electro-magnetic printing telegraph 2018. Thomas Edison Autograph Document Signed.
ADS, signed “Thomas A. Edison,” one page, 5 x 3.5, Boston, February 3, 1869. Document related to his first successful invention, an improvement for telegraphs. In full: “Received of Samuel W. Ropes Jr the sum of Thirty 30 dollars-being full amount received from him.” In fine condition, with mild soiling and expected document wear. Accompanied by copies of other documents associated with the transaction.
After saving three-year-old Jimmie MacKenzie from being struck by a runaway train, Edison was rewarded by the boy’s father, a station agent, with his first job as a telegraph operator. This job set the stage for Edison’s lifetime of tinkering and inspired most of his earliest projects-nearly all of his first 100 patents were related to the telegraph. The document at hand relates to Edison’s second patented invention: an improvement in electro-magnetic printing telegraphs, US Patent No. 91,527, executed on January 25, 1869, and issued on June 22, 1869. On January 21, Edison sold the rights to his printing telegraph to financiers Joel Hills and William Plummer for $1300, advanced through Samuel Ropes. Hills and Plummer agreed to pay the expenses of procuring the patent, and Ropes was to be responsible for introducing it to the public and into personal use. Edison’s novel device used two electromagnets, one for rotating the type wheel and one for actuating the printing hammer, enabling it to print at a receiving station without an attendant present. No power source was necessary to run the mechanism on the receiving end, as it was relayed through lines from the transmitting station. These qualities made it a very versatile instrument, designed ideally for transmitting messages from a central station to many receiving stations-a complex application for such a device would be an accurate, real-time stock ticker, which Edison went on to develop. This brief handwritten document not only represents the 21-year-old Edison’s first successful invention that jump started his prolific career, but is also the earliest Edison document we have ever seen enter the marketplace. Starting Bid $1000
www.RRAuction.com | 13
2019. Thomas Edison Technical Notes and Handdrawn Diagrams. Remarkable technical notes and
diagrams by Thomas Edison, accomplished in pencil on an off-white 8.5 x 10.5 lightly lined sheet, unsigned, dated to February 5, 1922. The sheet features what appears to be a pair of steam-powered devices with layered coils and a drainage system that feeds to the sewer. Edison’s notes, in part: “1920 sqr inch of water surface in platters, 13 square foot cold + 330° F steam blowing over it—+it’s all lost because to[o] blown out & don’t add to heat of platter—,” “Closed, water all thru system,” “Cooling rate is proportion to velocity of the water over surface—,” and “If coils arranged for drainage OK if not water pockets.” Edison writes “Diagram” to left side and adds notations to various parts. In fine condition, with three small tears to right edge, the largest roughly 1.25˝ in length, not affecting handwriting. Not long after the date of this diagram, a film crew traveled to West Orange, New Jersey to document the 75-year-old Edison going about a typical day. In this silent film, a six-part documentary entitled A Day with Thomas A. Edison, the camera captures the prolific inventor discussing new ideas with employees, conferring with his secretary, and checking in on the newest production techniques for producing one of his most famous inventions: the incandescent light bulb. Technical notes and designs in the hand of Edison are exceedingly rare, with this example particularly attractive given its bold realization and wealth of handwriting. Starting Bid $300
Edison optimizes his production lines: “We save 850 disc blanks daily in Disc Dept” 2020. Thomas Edison Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed
“Edison,” one page, 5 x 8, no date. Letter to Charles W. Luhr, superintendent and works manager of Edison’s lab in West Orange, New Jersey. In full: “Come up, want to show you some samples & also talk over desirability of putting at work a salvage man to fix up rejects & make them OK—we save 850 disc blanks daily in Disc Dept.” Mounted and framed to an overall size of 8.5 x 10.75. In very good to fine condition, with uniform toning and minor edge loss to the lower left corner. Starting Bid $200
14 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2021. Robert Fulton Autograph Letter Signed. ALS
signed “Rob’t Fulton,” one page, 7.5 x 9, January 23, 1815. Letter to Baltimore merchant and politician Solomon Etting, in full: “I have been informed that treasury notes are above par in Baltimore and Pittsburgh notes, bank note from 8 to 10 percent below par, if so could you dispose of 10,000 dollars for me in treasury notes and procure the amount or any part of it in Pittsburgh notes to be remitted from Baltimore to Pittsburgh? No money has yet arrived for the machinery of Fulton & consequently I have not yet commenced the work. You will please to note that this is 23’d January, please to present my respects to Mrs. Etting and the young ladies.” In fine condition, with two old tape stains to the lower blank area, and overall silking. Starting Bid $300
“One of the satisfactions of a career is to have people want to see how you sign your name”
2022. Richard Feynman Autograph Note Signed. American theoretical physicist (1918–1988) whose work in quantum electrodynamics earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965; he is often credited for introducing the concept of nanotechnology, and is remembered for his unorthodox wit. ANS signed “Richard P. Feynman,” on a white double-weight 5.75 x 3.5 collector’s card with raised borders, and a small image of Feynman affixed to the lower right corner. In full: “One of the satisfactions of a career is to have people want to see how you sign your name. Thank you, Mr. Harris, for your interest in me.” Annotated with the date, “12/58” on the reverse. In very fine condition. Originally from the collection of Roger Harris, a collector who devoted much of his personal time to writing celebrities for their autographs, requesting a portrait and a signature, and asking what the signer’s greatest satisfaction in life was. A highly desirable, early Feynman autograph pre-dating his Nobel Prize. Starting Bid $300
www.RRAuction.com | 15
Steam engine parts sketched by Robert Fulton, the pioneering developer of the steamboat
2024 . Robert Fulton Original Drawings. Extremely rare original drawings of steam engine parts by Robert Fulton,
accomplished in ink and graphite on both sides of two off-white sheets, 9.75 x 8 and 15.75 x 13, unsigned and undated. The larger sheet features a series of six graphite sketches to front side, with Fulton adding “Water Wheel” to right side, and the reverse featuring a pair of drawings with Fulton identifying “Cylinder,” “Condenser,” and “Air Flow,” to the upper drawing, and “Steam” and “Condensing” to the lower; the adjacent side is annotated in another hand, “Pictures of Fulton.” The smaller sheet, an unfolded mailing envelope, contains approximately nine ink drawings to front, with the reverse containing a single sketch; the mailing envelope is addressed to “Cadwaleder D. Colden, Esqr., Albany,” and postmarked at New York, March 7, no year, with notations to right side: “Pictures of Fulton, Scribled on my table at Albany.” In overall very good to fine condition, with professional overall silking to both items. Accompanied by a clothbound presentation folder. Cadwallader David Colden was a prominent politician and abolitionist (1769–1834) who served as the 54th Mayor of New York City and as both a state senator and congressman. A leading advocate of a national canal system, in 1825 he was commissioned by the Common Council of New York City, during the last days of the construction of the Erie Canal, to write a memoir for the ‘the Celebration of the Completion of the New York Canals.’ After his resignation from the senate, he moved to New Jersey and devoted much of his time to the completion of the Morris Canal. In 1817, two years after Fulton’s death, Colden published a remembrance in his honor entitled ‘The Life of Robert Fulton, by his friend Cadwallader D. Colden. Read before the Literary and Philosophical Society of New York. Comprising some account of the invention, progress, and establishment of steamboats; of improvements in the construction and the navigation of canals, and other objects of public utility.’ Starting Bid $300 16 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
“They do not have picture postcards yet, culture has not reached them”—Koch writes while fighting cattle plague in South Africa
2025. Robert Koch Autograph Letter Signed. German medical scientist
(1843–1910) regarded as the father of bacteriology. He isolated the tuberculosis bacillus and the anthrax virus, and received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1905. ALS in German, signed “R. Koch,” one page, 4.75 x 3, South African govenrment postcard letterhead, March 22, 1897. Letter to Dr. Kohler, director of the Royal Health Authority in Berlin, written from Kimberley, Cape Colony, South Africa. Koch traveled there to assist in fighting the spread of rinderpest, which had ravaged cattle stocks across Africa in the 1890s. He stayed at Kimberley for three months between and 1896-7; he concluded his work on cattle plague and left Kimberly on the day he wrote this letter. In full (translated): “I was lucky to get last minute tickets for passage on the German East Africa line’s ‘Admiral,’ and I will depart from Durban on March 28. I will take the liberty to send you cards along the way from each of the countries we have to pass, in accordance with your request. Unfortunately, they do not have picture postcards yet, culture has not reached them yet.” In very good to fine condition, with a stain to the right edge affecting several words of text. Starting Bid $300
Morse deems himself an “honored instrument” of the true creator of the telegraph, “the Giver of every good and perfect gift” 2026. Samuel F. B. Morse Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “Sam’l F. B. Morse,” three pages
on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, April 30, 1862. Letter to Minister J. Treadwell Walden of Norwich, Connecticut. In part: “I have read with deep interest your admirable written article...in which you are pleased to speak of my humble instrumentality in introducing to the world the invention which has modified so greatly, and is still further to modify the intercourse of nations. While conscious of the position which humanely speaking, has justly been assigned to me by the almost unanimous voice of the civilized world (Great Britain as a Government is an exception), I can say to you that I yet am fully sensible that I am a we[ak] if honored instrument in the han[ds] of the Giver of every good and perfec[t] gift.” In very good to fine condition, with light overall soiling, several intersecting folds, and an old repair to paper loss on the hinge, lightly affecting a few words of text. Starting Bid $200
2027. Alfred Nobel: Nitroglycerin Aktiebolaget Stock Certificate. Stock certificate for shares in the explosives manufacturing firm founded by Alfred Nobel, Nitroglycerin Aktiebolaget, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 9 x 11.5, issued on March 31, 1937, to Swedish business magnate Marcus Wallenberg. The second page logs the transfer of ownership of the shares from in 1944. In fine condition, with two punch holes at center. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 17
2028. Robert Oppenheimer Signed Photograph. Brilliant American physicist (1904-1967) who directed the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton and who spearheaded the Manhattan Project, leading to the development of the first atomic bomb. Extremely desirable vintage glossy 10 x 8 photo of Robert Oppenheimer seated at his desk with a pipe, signed in blue ballpoint. In fine condition, with scattered light creasing. Oppenheimer remains incredibly elusive in signed photos, with this representing the largest example we have ever seen. Starting Bid $300
2029. Bill Gates Signed Business Card. Microsoft business card belonging to Bill Gates, 3.5 x 2, which identifies him as “Chairman and Chief Software Architect,” signed in black felt tip. In fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
Appreciation for Berkeley molecular biologist Gunther Stent, highlighted by six Nobel Prize winners 2030. Gunther Stent Archive. Interesting archive from the papers of Gunther Stent, a noted molecular biologist and philosopher of science who was a longtime professor at UC Berkeley. The highlight is a red leather presentation binder gilt-stamped on the front, “Gunther S. Stent, In Celebration of His SixtyFifth Birthday, March 24, 1989.” Bound inside are a 12-page typed tribute to Stent from the March of Dimes praising his indispensable work, followed by a bound collection of items signed by more than 70 of his colleagues and admirers, generally comprised of their photos affixed opposite curriculum vitae, along with personal tributes to Stent. Highlights include Nobel Prize winners Werner Arber, Francis Crick, David H. Hubel, Francois Jacob, Niels Kaj Jerne (who adds “Nobel Prize for medicine or physiology” to his curriuclum vitae, and a ten-page handwritten testimonial letter), and Torsten N. Wiesel. Also includes a typescript of typescript of “Manners for Science” by James D. Watson, signed and inscribed on the title page in ballpoint by Watson, “For Gunther, from James”; a binder of annotated drafts of several of Stent’s articles and essays; and a few other unsigned manuscripts. In overall very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $300 18 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
patents These original photo-lithographed patent diagrams were created by government patent and trademark offices to use as patent examiner reference material. 2062. Louis Breguet Helicopter Wing System Patent Lithograph and Specification Document. Original
patent lithographs for Louis Breguet’s improvements in an aircraft’s rotating wing system, five pages, four 12.5 x 10.25 (linen-backed) and one 7 x 10.25 (not linen-backed), June 2, 1932. The diagrams feature multiple, highly detailed views of the improved rotary wing design. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2064. DeHavilland Aeroplane Patent Lithograph and Specification Document.
2063. British Thomson-Houston Loud Speaker Patent Lithograph and Specification Sheet. Original
linen-backed patent lithograph for the British Thomson-Houston Company’s invention of a loud speaker, one page, 12.5 x 10.25, August 11, 1932. The diagram features multiple views of the auditorium-oriented loud speaker, which expands from a portable chest. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Original linen-backed patent lithographs for the DeHavilland Aircraft Company’s improvements relating to aeroplane wings, two pages, 12.5 x 10.25, April 29, 1932. The diagrams feature large and impressive views of the wing design and its location on the airplane body. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2065. F. Dumoulin Shotgun Trigger Patent Lithograph. Original linen-backed patent lithograph for F. Dumoulin’s improvement of a shotgun trigger mechanism, one page, 14.25 x 9.75, February 2, 1898. The diagram depicts close-up cross-sections of the intricate inner workings of the trigger mechanism. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 19
2066. A. Dunbar Hypodermic Syringe Patent Lithograph.
Original linenbacked patent lithograph for A. Dunbar’s improvement of a hypodermic syringe, one page, 14.25 x 10.25, April 3, 1888. In fine condition, with a trimmed top edge. Starting Bid $200
Safety fuse patent by the Edison & Swan United Electric Light Co.
2068. Thomas Edison and Joseph Swan Electric Fuse Patent Lithograph. Original linen-backed patent
lithograph for an improvement in electric safety fuses by the Edison & Swan United Electric Light Co., one page, 13.5 x 10, October 26, 1895.Starting Bid $200
20 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Edison–Bell innovates the phonograph
2067. Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell Phonograph Shaft Patent Lithograph. Original linen-
backed patent lithographs for an improvement to the worm shaft of a phonograph by the Edison Bell Phonograph Corporation, three pages, 14.25 x 10, August 18, 1894. The improvement relates to vane governors for phonographs in which the vanes on the worm shaft are connected by cranks with a sliding pin passing down an axial hole in the shaft, and connected to a lever so that shifting the lever changes the position of the vanes. In ten figures, these diagrams depict the system in detail. The top borders read: “A.D. 1894. Aug. 18. No. 15,737. The Edison–Bell Phonograph Corporation [Ld.] & another’s Complete Specification.” Starting Bid $200
2069. Thomas Edison Electrode Tube Machine Patent Lithograph. Original linen-backed French patent lithograph for Thomas Edison’s invention of a ‘machine for filling and stuffing tubes,’ one page, 12.25 x 10.5, circa 1906. The top border reads: “No. 362.693, M. Edison, 2 planches.—Pl. II.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2070. Ford Motors Brake Mechanism Patent Lithograph and Specification Document. Original patent
lithographs for the Ford Motor Company’s improvements in a vehicle’s brake operating mechanism, two pages, 12.5 x 10.25 (linen-backed) and 6.75 x 10.25 (not linen-backed), November 11, 1932. The diagrams feature multiple views of the improved brake mechanism design. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2071. G. Gaggino Aerial Machine Patent Lithograph. Original linen-backed patent lithograph for G. Gaggino’s invention of an aerial machine with aerostats, one page, 14.25 x 9.75, April 17, 1888. In fine condition, with a few short edge tears. Starting Bid $200
2073. Hoover Vacuum Patent Lithograph and Specification Document. Original linen-backed patent
2072. Alexander Henry Rifle Patent Lithograph. Large and impressive original patent lithograph for Alexander Henry’s improvement in firearms, one page, 19.5 x 27.5, December 31, 1866. The diagram features multiple views of a rifle barrel with lock and trigger mechanism. The upper left corner reads: “A.D. 1866. Dec. 31. No. 3442. Henry’s Specification.” Starting Bid $200
lithograph for the Hoover Company’s improvements in the suction cleaner, one page, 12.5 x 10.25, May 19, 1932. The diagram features multiple views of the famous Hoover upright vacuum cleaner. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 21
2076. Mercedes-Euklid Calculating Machine Patent Lithograph and Specification Document. Original
2074. Kodak Film Roll Patent Lithograph and Specification Document. Original linen-backed patent lithograph
for Kodak Limited’s improvements relating to roll film cameras and a method of manipulating films therein, one page, 12.25 x 10.25, May 9, 1932. The diagram features multiple views of a roll of film on a spool, to be inserted into a chamber in the camera and advanced by rotating the spool after exposure. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
patent lithographs for Mercedes Büro-Maschinen Werke AG’s improvements in the calculating machine, five pages, four 12.25 x 10.25 (linen-backed) and one 7 x 10.25 (not linen-backed), January 11, 1932. The diagrams feature multiple views of the improved calculating machine’s design, including close-ups and blow-outs of its internal mechanisms. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Nobel’s aerodynamic hand grenade
2075. Magnavox Loud Speaker Patent Lithograph and Specification Document. Original linen-backed
patent lithograph for the Magnavox Company’s invention of a loud speaker, one page, 12.5 x 10.25, June 30, 1932. The diagram features multiple views of the speaker, which employs a conical diaphragm powered by an actuating coil. The top border reads: “375,538 Complete Specification.” first page. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
22 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2077. Alfred Nobel Hand Grenade Patent Lithograph.
Original linen-backed French patent lithograph for Alfred Nobel’s improvement of the hand grenade, one page, 12 x 10.5, circa 1912. The purpose of the improvement is to increase the distance a hand grenade can be thrown through the adoption of an aerodynamic disc shape. The diagram is headed “No. 436.853, Societe dite: Dynamit-Agtien-Gesellschaft vormals Alfred Nobel & Co., Pl. Unique.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2078. Andrew Noble Gun Turret Patent Lithograph.
Original linen-backed patent lithographs for Andrew Noble’s system of mounting guns on turrets, seven pages, 14.25 x 10, October 25, 1888. The detailed diagrams show the turret system from several angles, as well as its proposed operation by soldiers. The top borders read: “A.D. 1888. Oct. 25. No. 15,396. Noble’s Complete Specification.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2079. Peugeot Chassis Patent Lithograph. Original linen-backed French
patent lithograph for Peugeot’s improvement of an automobile with a removable electric headlight, one page, 11.25 x 10.5, circa 1918. The diagram features two views of an automobile’s chassis designed to support a dynamo-powered electric headlight; the part identified as “3a” in “Fig. 3” is a sealed casing containing the chain and the motion transmission gears for controlling a dynamo which powers the headlight. The diagram is headed “No. 457.530, Societe Anonyme des Automobiles & Cycles Peugeot.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2081. Ferdinand Porsche Universal Motor Vehicle Joint Patent Lithograph and Specification Document. Original linen-backed patent lithograph for
Ferdinand Porsche’s invention of a universal joint for motor vehicles, one page, 12.5 x 10.25, January 5, 1933. The diagram features multiple views of the universal joint-block, designed to be stronger and more simply manufactured than existing versions. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2080. Pioneer Instruments Engine Synchronism Indicators Patent Lithograph and Specification Sheet. Original linen-backed patent lithograph for the Pioneer Instrument Company’s improvements in engine synchronism indicators, one page, 12.5 x 10.25, August 11, 1932. The diagram features multiple views of the improved indicator design, as well as its connection to the aircraft. . In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 23
2082. Remington Typewriter Key Action Patent and Specification Document. Original
patent lithographs for the Remington Typewriter Company’s improvements in actions for typewriting machines, two pages, 12.5 x 10.25 (linen-backed) and 7 x 10.25 (not linen-backed), May 19, 1932. The diagrams feature multiple views of the improved typewriter key design. In fine condition.Starting Bid $200
2083. George Albert Rossiter Gyroscopic Compass Patent Lithograph. Original patent lithographs for George
Albert Rossiter’s improvements relating to gyroscopic compasses, three pages, two 12.25 x 10.25 (linen-backed) and one 6 x 10.25 (not linen-backed), September 2, 1919. The diagrams feature multiple views of the improved gyroscope design. In fine condition, with some paper loss to the left edge. Starting Bid $200
French patent diagram for Nikola Tesla’s fluid propulsion apparatus—the ‘Tesla Turbine’ 2084. Nikola Tesla Fluid Propulsion Patent Lithograph. Original linen-backed French patent lithograph for
Nikola Tesla’s invention of a fluid propulsion apparatus, one page, 12 x 10.5, circa 1910. The purpose of the apparatus is to convert fluid motion into mechanical power, using a chamber with a spiral path, rotary pump, and rotating shaft. The diagram is headed “No. 421.543, M. Tesla, Pl. Unique.” On the left side is an unrelated diagram for French patent “No. 421.542” granted to M. Quinquarlet for a pneumatic jack. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
24 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2085. Reinhold Tiling Flying Rocket Patent Lithograph and Specification Document. Original linen-backed patent lithograph
for Reinhold Tiling’s invention of a flying rocket, one page, 12.5 x 10.5, June 9, 1932. The diagram depicts a flying rocket with folding and moveable fins for different stages of flight, to allow gliding, steering, and swinging out like a parachute for safely landing. Starting Bid $200
2086. Westinghouse and Rites Steam Engine Patent Lithograph.
Original linen-backed patent lithograph for Henry Herman Westinghouse and Francis M. Rites’ improvement of a steam engine, one page, 14 x 10, October 15, 1888. The diagram features three views of the steam engine, in which heat is applied to water to generate steam, and the resulting force pushes a piston back and forth inside a cylinder. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2087. Carl Zeiss Lens Patent Lithograph. Original linen-backed patent lithograph
for Carl Zeiss’s improvement of a lens, one page, 14.25 x 10.25, September 2, 1910. The diagram features two angles of the crescent-shaped lens. The top border reads: “A.D. 1910. Sep. 2. No. 20,475. Carl Zeiss’ Complete Specification.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 25
computer hardware 2105. 1950s 4-Wire Core Memory Plane. Rare and historic circa 1950s 4-wire core memory plane, featuring a 10 by 15 array with 150 separate ferrite cores hand-wired into the plane. The overall dimensions are 4 1/16˝ x 4 1/16˝ x 1/4˝, and the edge is marked “B16688 88 215” and “Made in Holland.” This is an example of core memory using four wires—X, Y, Sense, and Inhibit—as used in very early systems which were primarily dedicated to military and scientific applications; soon after, the separate Sense and Inhibit wires were combined into a single Sense/Inhibit line, making this early four-wire version very rare. The low density of this plane adds to its desirability. It survived the demilitarization destruction process because it was wired in error and never made it into a piece of equipment. There are no machine marks on the mounting holes and the pretinned soldier leads were never used, indicating that it was never installed and remains in pristine condition. It was tagged by an engineer “5th Column wired in error” and “Core Plane Not Tested,” meaning that current was never run through it because it failed a visual inspection. Displayed in a Riker box. Starting Bid $200
2106. Magnetic Bubble Recorder-Reproducer.
Rugged militarized Magnetic Bubble Recorder-Reproducer made by Singer-Librascope for an AN/SLQ-32 Electronic Warfare Suite used on US Navy ships, measuring 12.5˝ x 8˝ x 26˝, with an identification plate on the front, reading: “Recorder-Reproducer, Magnetic Bubble, RD-509/G, Ser. No. 022A, B4013682, FSCM 56996, Rev. D(20), Contract No. DAAB07-83-C-J044.” In very good to fine condition. The RD-509/G expanded memory unit has a storage capacity of 8 megabytes, a data access rate of 40 milliseconds, and a data transfer rate of 1 megabit per second, meeting the requirements for use with the AN/SLQ-32(V). Starting Bid $200
2107. EAI MiniAC Analog Computer with Repetitive Operation Display Unit and Variplotter . EAI MiniAC analog
computer with EAI Repetitive Operation Display Unit (RPI 0314) and EAI Variplotter 1110 plotter unit: the MiniAC measures 32.5 x 22 x 13, the Repetitive Operation Display Unit with bright orange oscilloscope face (model 34.035) measures 11.5 x 7.75 x 20.75, and the Variplotter measures 19 x 21 x 8.5. The MiniAC was introduced by Electronic Associates, Inc. as a small tabletop transistorized analog computer, designed for students and researchers to run small models and simulations. Untested and in overall very good to fine cosmetic condition. Starting Bid $300 26 |
July 16. 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
1989 Nintendo Action Set in near-mint condition
2108. Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Action Set with Zapper - VGA NM 80. Original 1989 Nintendo
Entertainment System (NES) Action Set in its original box, including the ‘Control Deck’ gaming console, two controllers, orange NES Zapper light gun, and Duck Hunt/Super Mario Brothers double game pack. Encapsulated and graded by VGA NM 80. The NES Action Set was the most popular bundle for the original Nintendo: when first released in 1985, it included a graycolored Zapper that matched the console. After the the Federal Toy Gun Law was signed into United States law in 1988, toy guns were required to be visually distinct from real ones and the bright orange Zapper was introduced. The popularity of the set also resulted in the wide proliferation of the Super Mario Bros./Duck Hunt multicart game on the secondhand market, as compared to the standalone versions of each game. Starting Bid $500
www.RRAuction.com | 27
equipment and hardware 2111. 1830s Cooke-Wheatstone Needle Telegraph Set. Very early circa 1830s CookeWheatstone single-needle telegraph set, mounted on a wooden stand measuring approximately 5.75˝ x 11.5˝ x 8˝, featuring two keys on the base and the needle and alphabet code key mounted to the face. At the top is a plate reading: “Philip Harris & Co. Ltd., Scientific Instrument Specialists, Birmingham and Dublin.” The rear features four electrical contacts. In very good to fine condition, with some scratches and repaired tears to the cardstock code key. In the alphabet used by this machine, the long strokes represent pointing the needle to the right, the short strokes to the left: the letter ‘A’ is made by pointing the needle once left and once right, while ‘B’ is formed by right, left, left, left. The code is identical to Morse code, with a left deflection being equivalent to a dot, and a right deflection equivalent to a dash. A rare, early piece of telegraphic history. Starting Bid $200
‘The Processor’—a handbuilt mid-1970s prototype music synthesizer
2112. The Processor: Analog Music Synthesizer. Impres-
sive analog music synthesizer prototype named ‘The Processor,’ one of two examples designed and built circa 1975 by electrical engineers Dennis Drew and Thomas Sawyer. The huge unit measures approximately 41˝ x 32˝ x 19˝, and was built to transform the sound of one musical instrument into that of another in real time. The Processor performs its signal transformations by sending audio through a series of discrete devices pre-wired to perform dedicated signal modifications with musical intent. It is important to note that the Processor is a ‘closed loop’ system. This is entirely analog circuitry, there are no digital transformations or computerized functions. By routing a signal through a mixer, dynamic limiters, phase-shifting modules, delay lines, and ‘signal seeking’ filters, the Processor ‘extracts’ hidden tonal components and adds them selectively to the original sound, or it produces entirely new sounds depending on the requirements. It works particularly well for instruments with wide dynamic ranges, long sustains and/or continuous signal characteristics. Harmonically rich instruments such as piano or organ, acoustic guitar and most stringed instruments capable of both long tones and percussive effects work especially well. It includes a control console that has meters to indicate dynamic response and signal levels, and a joystick to make adjustments. It is currently partially operational: those modules that are physically powered are active, but six missing FLT cables prevent the whole system from operating. This piece will be crated and shipped from New York; the buyer is responsible for all associated costs. Starting Bid $2500
28 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
weapons and war
Rare 1860s Caton pocket relay, as used by spies in the Civil War 2113. 1860s Caton Civil War Spy Pocket Telegraph Set. Rare circa
1860s Caton lineman’s pocket telegraph set, as used by spies during the Civil War. Measuring just 5˝ x 2.25˝ x 1.25˝ in its hard rubber case, this is a complete ultraportable telegraph sending and receiving system. During the Civil War, telegraph operator spies used these to tap into the enemy’s communications systems: a bare wire tossed over uninsulated telegraph lines—and grounded with a bayonet—allowed them to intercept messages or send along false intelligence. This diminutive unit features horizontally mounted sounder coils, a 1.5˝ strap telegraph key, and a tiny shorting switch; both the key and the switch have ivory knobs. The center piece is engraved with the maker’s name, “Caton, Ottawa, Ill.” In fine condition. These were also known as a pocket telegraph machine, cavalryman’s portable telegraph key, or Caton Pocket Relay. At the time of their use, the Caton was the highest quality machine on the market. Starting Bid $200
2114. 1860s Phelps Civil War Telegraph Key. Highly desirable circa 1860s Civil War–era
‘camelback’ telegraph key by G. M. Phelps, handsomely crafted from brass with hairpin spring and shorting switch on the side, engraved “G. M. Phelps Maker” on the key’s edge, “Wutel Co.” on the top, and marked with serial number “4074” on the base. The long threaded mounting legs remain intact. In very good condition, with overall tarnishing to the finish. The Phelps ‘camelback’ key—so named for the hump at the center—was the most widely used telegraph key during the Civil War. They were produced from about 1853 to 1865, before being abandoned for an improved design; the steel trunnion shaft, press-fit into the lever, would gradually become loose after prolonged use, rendering the key unusable so relatively few have survived. Starting Bid $200
2115. 1860s Phelps-Hamilton Civil War Telegraph Set. Very early circa 1860s Civil War–era
telegraph set, mounted on a wooden 8˝ x 5˝ base, faintly marked: “Hamilton Electrical Works, Albany, N.Y.” The set features a handsomely crafted brass ‘camelback’ telegraph key with hairpin spring and shorting switch on the side, engraved “G. M. Phelps Maker” on the key’s edge, and marked with serial number “4813” on the base. On the left side is a very early and primitive sounder by Tillotson, engraved “L. C. Tillotson & Co., 26 Dey St., New York,” featuring two vertically mounted coils. In very good to fine condition. The Phelps ‘camelback’ key—so named for the hump at the center—was the most widely used telegraph key during the Civil War. They were produced from about 1853 to 1865, before being abandoned for an improved design; the steel trunnion shaft, press-fit into the lever, would gradually become loose after prolonged use, rendering the key unusable. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 29
2116. 1860s Tillotson Civil War Spy Pocket Telegraph Set. Hard-to-find circa 1860s Tillotson lineman’s pocket tele-
graph set, as used by spies during the Civil War. Measuring just 5˝ x 2.25˝ x 1.5˝ in its hard rubber case, this is a complete ultraportable telegraph sending and receiving system. During the Civil War, telegraph operator spies used these to tap into the enemy’s communications systems: a bare wire tossed over uninsulated telegraph lines—and grounded with a bayonet—allowed them to intercept messages or send along false intelligence. This diminutive unit features horizontally mounted sounder coils and a 1.5˝ black-knobbed key. Beneath the key, the case it marked: “L. G. Tillotson & Co., 3 Dey St., New York.” In fine condition. These were also known as a pocket telegraph machine or cavalryman’s portable telegraph key. Starting Bid $200
2117. Cold War Czech MRP-4 Radio Detection Unit. Cold War–era Czech MRP-4 radar locator, codenamed ‘Barbara,’ designed for the direction finding of mobile radar and radio stations. The unit measures 7˝ x 10.5˝ x 2.5˝, and includes its wooden transit case with accessories including power packs, earphones, cables, test unit, pack of spare diodes, and more. The top has two circular antennas for high and low band, and the main control panel features a meter; adjustment knobs for tone, range, amplifier, and mode; detector diodes; and an audio output. In very good to fine condition, with a crack to the meter’s plastic window but a spare meter is included. Starting Bid $200
2118.
Cold War German RT-3 Burst Encoder.
Circa 1958 Cold War–era clandestine RT-3 electromechanical burst encoder, developed by Wandel & Goltermann for the German Federal Intelligence Service (BND). The device measures 4.25˝ x 3.5˝ x 1.5˝, and is marked on the case with serial number “RT3 9501.” The heavy-duty case has a spring-loaded panel that opens to reveal the mechanical memory cylinder, which rotates to reveal 25 horizontal bars, each with a tab moveable to ten positions. The cylinder crank is stored in a cleverly milled-out cavity in the bottom of the unit. A user could load 25 characters into this mechanical memory, and the unit would transmit them at high speed in Morse code, which made interception and direction-finding very difficult. In very good to fine condition. Accompanied by a modern operating manual detailing the history and function of the RT-3. Starting Bid $200
30 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2119. Cold War Russian Filin Body-Worn Radio Detector/Receiver. Cold War–era Russian body-worn radio direction finder and intercept receiver known as ‘FILIN,’ developed around 1970 as a covert means to locate clandestine radio transmitters and to intercept communications of adversaries. Used by Eastern Bloc secret services like the KGB and the Stasi, the curved design of the receiver allowed it to be easily concealed under clothing. The receiver measures 8.5˝ x 6.5˝ x 2.25˝, and the top notes the model and serial number (“??.?-?, N178034”), and features a frequency scale, antenna input, and mode selector. The front has knobs for fine tuning, sensitivity, and volume, and a switch for field strength/reception; the on/off and far/near switches are missing. A small, wearable antenna box is attached, as is an original headphone speaker. The power cables remain attached to the receiver, but have been cut at the ends. This unit, the Filin Model-B (?), operated in the 60-150 MHz range. In very good condition, with scattered scuffs and scratches, Starting Bid $200
2120. Cold War Russian R-354 Spy Radio. Cold War–
era R-354 spy radio set, codenamed ‘Shmel [Bumblebee],’ used by spies and special forces of the USSR for reconnaissance purposes. The fully self-contained unit measures 16˝ x 12˝ x 4.25˝. It contains a receiver, transmitter, antenna, and burst transmitter. The built-in burst encoder—a ten-button panel on the right side—allowed pre-coded numerical messages to be sent very rapidly, minimizing the risk of interception. The radio could be operated by a 6V battery stored in the lid, a hand-cranked generator, or an external power supply. The main panel features controls for receiving and transmitting calibration, tuning, and volume, and readouts for tuning frequencies. In very good to fine condition, with the hinged lid stuck in an open position. Accompanied by two modern manuals in German. A desirable example of the spy radio that saw the most widespread use by the Warsaw Pact countries during the Cold War. Starting Bid $200
2121. Cold War Soviet R-014D Datchik Electronic Burst Encoder. Cold War–era So-
viet R-014D electronic burst encoder, codenamed ‘Datchik,’ as used in conflict areas to transmit battlefield commands. The unit measures 14˝ x 10˝ x 7˝, and features a 16-key keyboard, lamp panel display, voltage meter, voltage check switch, mode selector, and on/off switch. The unit allowed the operator to transmit a message in Morse code at a very high speed, helping to evade interception and radio direction finding. Given the importance of the data sent, the device incorporated advanced error-detection and error-correction. In very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 31
2122. Czech RZ-301 Radio Detection Unit. Circa 1950s Czech RZ-301 portable radio direction finder, codenamed ‘POSPISIL,’ designed to locate clandestine transmissions. With this unit covertly concealed in a leather briefcase, a member of the secret police could sweep for secret radio transmissions. The finder is comprised of a black box with large ‘window’ antenna, measuring an overall 3.5˝ x 12˝ x 15˝, with an identification plate on the front reading: “RZ301, Serie D, c.05189.” In the bottom is a slot for one of four frequency cartridges, corresponding to different ranges. All four plug-in frequency units are included. In very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2123. Relic Battlefield-Found Enigma Rotor. Original World War II–era rotor from a German Enigma machine, dug from the ground in a WWII battlefield. This is Enigma rotor no. V with a serial number of A6324, indicating that it was manufactured in Berlin in 1937. Initially, Enigma machines were issued with three rotors; beginning in 1937, they were produced with five rotors in order to increase their cryptographic security. Those machines already in use by the military—like the one that would have received this fifth rotor—were issued rotors “IV” and “V” with matching serial numbers. This original Enigma rotor is intact and in stable condition. There is corrosion and rust on various metal surfaces and several of the spring-loaded contacts have seized in place. Starting Bid $300
2124. WWII Allied ‘Sweetheart’ Radio. World War II–era Type 31/1 ‘Sweetheart’ clandestine radio receiver, developed for use by the British Special Operations Executive (SOE). A large number of these units were manufactured by Hale Electric Co. Ltd in London to be dropped over occupied Europe, where members of the resistance could use them to listen to coded messages broadcast by the BBC. This unit was designed for use in Norway, where many radios were dropped. The brass operating instructions plate on the front of the receiver is in Norwegian, and the serial number plate on the bottom reads “No. 10589.” Knobs on the bottom are the reaction control and frequency adjustment. Includes its battery box, which allowed use of a standard 4.5V flashlight battery (to provide 50 hours of runtime) or a 30V hearing aid battery (which could last an impressive 200 hours). The receiver covers a frequency range from 6 to 12 MHz in a single band. The small size of the radio—the receiver measures 4.5˝ x 5.25˝ x 1˝, and the battery pack measures 4˝ x 3˝ x 1˝—along with its slim design, allowed to to easily be concealed in a coat pocket. In very good to fine condition. World-War II historians and collectors consider these radios to be important components of the resistance movements against the NazisStarting Bid $300 32 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
World War II–era Enigma machine, found buried in Germany
2125. Relic Battlefield-Found Enigma I Cipher Machine. Historic battlefield-found, relic three-rotor Enigma I machine
recovered from the ground outside the village of Sülstorf, Germany, approximately 120 miles northwest of Berlin. This is where the German 3rd Panzer Army, commanded by General Hasso-Eccard von Manteuffel, found itself on the last days of WWII. This Panzer Army had been engaged in holding back Russian forces in the defense of Berlin. Following a defeat at Stettin, Germany, they were forced to retreat to the region of Mecklenburg. On May 3, 1945, General Manteuffel negotiated with British generals including Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery so that 300,000 German soldiers would surrender to the British rather than Soviet forces. A framed display of a TLS and signed photograph of von Manteuffel is included. This relic Enigma machine was found at the bottom of a meter-deep hole. The treasure hunter said that the area became a huge prison camp when the Germans surrendered to the British. The German soldiers intentionally buried any equipment they did not want to have fall into the hands of the Allies. The Germans felt that the Enigma machine codes were unbreakable and continued to use it as the primary code machine for all branches of the military throughout WWII. Therefore, there were standing orders to destroy Enigma machines rather than let these secret cipher devices be captured by Allied forces. As German positions were overrun or preparing to surrender, the Enigma machines would be intentionally damaged to make them non-functional and then discarded into lakes, the ocean, or buried so they would not be found. Typical methods for destroying an Enigma machine included removing and discarding the rotors, smashing the top of the Enigma (including the lamp panel and keyboard) with a rifle butt, kicking in the Steckerboard, and even shooting or placing a grenade inside the machine. The intentional destruction of Enigma machines by the Germans as well as Churchill’s orders to destroy all captured Enigma machines is the reason that less than one percent of all Enigma machines survived the war. Nearly all surviving Enigma machines now reside with museums, government intelligence agencies, or private collectors. The serial number of this Enigma—A20437—is still visible on the reflector. The serial number indicates that this machine was built in Berlin in 1944, likely less than one year from the date of Germany’s surrender in May of 1945. The manufacturing of Enigma machines continued into early 1945. These Enigma machines were for use by new German divisions being formed from the remnants of shattered divisions as well as newly formed groups of very young and very old combatants. A fantastic, tangible relic of World War II. Starting Bid $2500
www.RRAuction.com | 33
2126. Russian Fialka M-125 Cipher Machine. Scarce original Cold War–era Russian M-125 cipher machine, codenamed
‘Fialka,’ in its original case with separate original power supply. The machine’s case measures 11˝ x 13˝ x 9˝, and is stenciled on the front with its serial number, “98-70248,” matching the numbers located on the interior. The suitcase-style power supply box measures 10.5˝ x 6˝ x 7˝, and is stenciled with the serial number “98-70230.” It is not supplied with a power cord and should only be connected to the power supply by a qualified electrician. The Fialka is an electromechanical, wheel-based code-generating and decoding machine. Its development came after World War II, and was based loosely on the German Enigma machine, with rotors moving to a new position each time a key is pressed, creating a new electrical circuit and an alphabetic substitution for the letter that was pressed. However, the Fialka incorporates a number of different features from the Enigma that made it a much more daunting cipher-generating machine. These features include the use of 10 rotors (each with 30 contacts), wheels rotating in opposite directions, and more frequent wheel stepping. In addition, the rotors could be quickly rewired in the field, and input and output from the machine was accelerated via the use of punched paper tape. This example has ten rotors installed in the device’s drum, and an additional set of ten spare rotors held inside the case’s lid, plus one single extra rotor. Being regularly produced starting in 1956, the Fialka quickly became a primary cipher machine for all of the Warsaw Pact countries and Cuba. Each country had the Fialka keyboard modified to their language—this example has Cyrillic and Latin characters—and had specially wired rotors. The Fialka was in use by Russia and its allies well into the 1990s, and very little information was available about this machine until 2005 as it had been kept secret. Few Fialka machines remain as they were systematically destroyed by the Soviet Union and its successors as the machines have been taken out of service. In very good to fine condition. While the machine does power up and the primary electric motor does function, we do not guarantee that this machine is fully functional. Accompanied by a Russian Cold War-era telegraph key and a detailed reference manual in English, compiled by Paul Reuvers. An important piece of Cold War code-making history. Starting Bid $1000
34 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2127. Swiss NEMA Model 45 Cipher Machine. Com-
plete and original wartime Swiss NEMA Model 45 cipher machine, serial no. TD-521, developed by Zellweger AG in Uster, Switzerland, during World War II as a replacement for the German Enigma Model K that was being used by the Swiss Army. The machine is also known as T-D, which stands for Tasten-Drücker Maschine (key-press machine). The electro-mechanical wheelbased cipher machine features ten wheels: four electrical rotors with 26 contacts at each end, one electrical reflector with 26 pairwise cross connected contacts, and five drive wheels that control the stepping of the rotors and reflector. The stepping mechanism is adjustable and irregular, making the machine much less predictable than its predecessor—and therefore far more difficult to crack. This wartime NEMA machine was stored away to be used in the event of a war, and shows only minor signs of use. It is in intermittent working condition and accompanied by an operator’s manual as well as two original keys to the metal NEMA carrying case. Two spare rotors are stored in the lid, and the original external power cord and external lamp panel are also included. An included external battery pack can be used to power the unit. During WWII, the Swiss Army used a modified version of the German-made commercial Enigma Model K machine. After the Swiss discovered that their Enigma K traffic was being read by both the Allied forces and the Germans, they started the development of their own improved machine, which they called NEMA, derived from “NEue MAschine [NEw MAchine].” The NEMA cipher machine was developed between 1941 and 1943, and the first prototype was ready in early 1944. After a few modifications and improvements, the machine was finally approved in March 1945. Production started in 1946, with the first machines entering service in 1947. The NEMA was used by the Swiss Army in the years following WWII, and by the Swiss Diplomatic Service. The NEMA was officially declassified in 1992. Accompanied by two copies of manuals. Starting Bid $1000
www.RRAuction.com | 35
Portable M209 cipher machine, as used by American troops on the front lines in WWII
2128. WWII American M-209-A Cipher Machine. Desirable World War II–era American M-209-A mechanical pin-andlug cipher machine, measuring 7.25˝ x 5.25˝ x 3.25˝, identified on the plate on the top of the case: “Signal Corps, U.S. Army, Converter M-209-A, Serial No. 13898, Order No. 1499-OHILA-42, Supplied by Hagelin Cryptograph Company, New Milford, Conn.” Held inside the top of the case are the oiler, screwdriver, paper tape, and tweezers. Also includes the original canvas carrying bag, marked “M-209-A” on the front.
The M-209 is a portable hand-operated mechanical cipher machine initially developed in the late 1930s by the entrepreneur and inventor, Boris Hagelin. Hagelin fled Sweden for the United States at the outbreak of WWII and worked with the US Military to refine his cipher machine design. The M-209 was the result of this collaboration and the machine would be used by the US during WWII, as well as many other countries for decades after the end of the war. The relationship between Hagelin and the US goes much deeper than the collaborations during WWII: a February 2020 article in the Washington Post detailed the secret relationship Hagelin had with the CIA and German Intelligence services. The development of the M-209 lead to one of the biggest intelligence operations in CIA history, known as ‘Operation Rubicon.’ In this operation the CIA used their secret technique to allow them to read all of the M-209 and other Hagelin cipher machine-enciphered messages until 2018. This rotor-based cipher machine does not require electricity and is lightweight and durable, making it perfectly suited for tactical front line use. While the code generated by the M-209 was not as strong as the Enigma code, and could sometimes be read within 4 to 24 hours by the Germans, it was considered secure enough for tactical messages that were of no value after that length of time. The key is set by using the six adjustable cipher wheels with moveable lugs. Text is entered letter-by-letter using the selector wheel on the left side, and the encoded output letter is printed on the narrow paper strip. In very good to fine condition. Accompanied by a photocopy of the original technical manual, and the book Inside Enigma, which discusses several cipher machines from World War II.. Starting Bid $500 36 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
aviation Brilliantly colored 1908 French liqueur poster featuring an early airplane 2141. Aviation Advertisement. Original and very
colorful French advertising poster for “La Raphaelle Liqueur Bonal,” 45.5 x 62.5, done by G. Rosetti in 1908. Poster depicts a waiter having his bottle of La Raphaelle stolen by a man in an airplane. Poster has been professionally linen backed to an overall size of 49 x 65.5. Faint previous folds and wrinkles, and a small area of dampstaining to right border, otherwise fine condition. Rolled. A visually impressive piece of advertising. Starting Bid $300
Stunning original poster for aviation’s crowning event: the 1909 Grande Semaine d’Aviation in Reims 2142. Reims Air Meet 1909 Poster by Ernest Montaut.
Original color poster for the first international air meet, the Grand Semaine d’Aviation, 63 x 46, held in August of 1909. Designed by Ernest Montaut, whose name is printed in the lower left, the poster depicts an exciting scene of a woman in a purple dress waving to an aviator flying overhead at an impressive speed, with silhouettes of other planes, balloons, and a blimp flying in the background. Poster has been linen backed and is in fine condition with previous storage folds. Rolled. Starting Bid $300
www.RRAuction.com | 37
The brothers’ triumphant return to Dayton
2143. Wright Brothers Dayton Homecoming Program. Complete program for the “Wright Brothers Home-coming To the Gem City,” held in Dayton, Ohio, on June 17-18, 1909, 6 x 8.75, published by Kerr-Geyer-Tyroler. Program contains a ‘guide to Dayton’ with many advertisements and information about the city in general, as well as images of the various members of the Wright family, their planes, and their factory. The last few pages contain a schedule of events for the homecoming celebration and a brief article about the history of the brothers. In very good condition, with overall creases, tear to back cover, and scrapbook page affixed to back cover. In June 1909, the brothers returned to their hometown of Dayton, where they were greeted with parades, receptions, and fireworks, and received medals from Congress, the state of Ohio, and the city. A rare program from one of these many events. Starting Bid $200
2144. Wright Exhibition Team: Frank Coffyn Group of (3) Photographs. Pioneer aviator (1878-1960) who flew with the Wright Exhibition Team and in 1912 was commissioned to shoot the first aerial footage of New York City. Three original 1912 photos related to Frank Coffyn’s flight in New York City, 6.5 x 4.5, each stamped on the reverse by M. Rol. Photos show Coffyn in front of his aircraft, the hydroplane in icy water just before taking off, and an aerial photo of the Statue of Liberty, bearing a pencil notation on the reverse: “First image of New York from the Air.” In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Unique Orville Wright signature flown on the ISS in 2011 2145. Orville Wright Signature Flown on the International Space Station. Vintage fountain pen signature, “Orville
Wright, June 27, 1927,” on an off-white 4.75 x 3 slip, later flown on the International Space Station and postmarked there on the day of the STS-133 docking, February 26, 2011. In fine condition. A remarkable piece connecting historic flights across the decades. We know of no other Orville Wright signatures flown to the ISS. Starting Bid $200
38 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
space models Model of the N-1 moon rocket, the Soviet answer to the Saturn V 2170. N-1 Moon Rocket Model. Stunning cutaway
model of the N1 moon rocket, a super heavy-lift launch vehicle that served as the Soviet rival to NASA’s Saturn V and was intended to enable crewed travel to Earth’s Moon and beyond. Constructed of sundry parts metal and plastic, the model stands a lofty 24.5˝ in height and is set upon a metallic base 6˝ in diameter, which bears an engraved Cyrillic inscription (translated), “To dear Mstislav Vsevolodovich Keldysh from associates, 10. 2. 1971.” In fine condition, with some scuffing and wear to base and metal panels, and a small crack to middle plastic cut-section window. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. Keldysh was a Soviet scientist in the field of mathematics and mechanics (1911–1978) who was one of the key figures behind the Soviet space program. After creating the Calculation Bureau, which is credited with the design of the first Soviet computers and carried most of the mathematical problems related to the development of nuclear weapons, Keldysh began devoting his time to jet propulsion and rockets, including supersonic gas dynamics, heat and mass exchange, and heat shielding. His collaboration with Sergey Korolyov and Mikhail Tikhonravov influenced the creation of Sputnik, the world’s first satellite, in October 1957, and in 1961, he received his second Него of Socialist Labor medal for his contribution to Yuri Gagarin’s historic flight into space. The N1 launch vehicle, developed by Russia in the 1960’s, was to be the Soviet Union’s counterpart to the Saturn V. The largest of a family of launch vehicles that were to replace the ICBM-derived launchers then in use, the N series was to launch Soviet cosmonauts to the moon, Mars, and huge space stations into orbit. In comparison to Saturn, the project was started late, starved of funds and priority, and dogged by political and technical struggles between the chief designers. The end result was four launch failures and the cancellation of the project five years after Apollo landed on the moon. Starting Bid $300
www.RRAuction.com | 39
lunar photography
Earth as seen from the moon
2171. Lunar Orbiter 1 ‘Earthrise’ Transmission Print. Uncommon transmission print of the surface of the moon taken from Lunar Orbiter 1 on August 23, 1966, consisting of six glossy photographic panels taped together on the reverse to an approximate overall size of 41˝ x 17.5˝. Rolled and in very good condition, with overall creasing, a tear to the left edge, old tape to border and reverse, areas of emulsion loss, and curling to vertical sides of each panel. This transmission print features the world’s first view of Earth taken by a spacecraft from the vicinity of the moon. The captured photo was transmitted to Earth by the United States Lunar Orbiter I spacecraft and was received at the NASA tracking station at Robledo De Chavela near Madrid, Spain. This crescent image of the Earth was photographed on August 23, 1966, when the spacecraft was on its 16th orbit and preparing to pass behind the moon. Starting Bid $200
Images that mapped the moon—complete microfilm photographic data set from the Lunar Orbiter program 2172. Lunar Orbiter 1-5 Film Reels. Exceptional collection of five reels of microfilm containing the photographs of the moon’s surface taken by Lunar Orbiters 1–5 in 1966–1967. The leaders note: “Microfilmed by National Space Science Data Center, Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland 20771.” Each reel is contained in its original cardboard box, stamped with the address of the National Space Science Data Center and identifying the associated Lunar Orbiter Project mission. In overall very good to fine condition, with some damage and toned tape to the boxes; the microfilm reels are fine. Starting Bid $200
40 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
x-15
RCS thruster nozzle from the nose of an X-15
2173. X-15 Rocket Plane RCS Nose Nozzle. Thruster nozzle from the Reaction Control System (RCS) of a North American X-15 rocket-powered plane, which was located in the nose of the aircraft: the hydrogen peroxide thrust rockets on the nose provided pitch and yaw control, while those on the wings provided roll control. A system based on this innovative design would be used decades later on the Space Shuttle. The piece measures 5˝ tall with a 2˝ x 2˝ base, and a diameter of 2˝ across the mounting flange. A short chamber pressure tap ends from the side, at the top of the thrust chamber. In very good to fine condition. Originates from the collection of X-15 engineer Henry E. Louie, and accompanied by an original 9.5 x 7.5 photo of the X-15 team celebrating the aircraft’s 199th flight (affixed to a 14 x 11 mount), and a provenance statement from his son, in part: “He worked on the X-15 project towards the end of the program, pictured with the engineering team after the X-15’s last flight, number 199. His specialty was fluid dynamics which tended towards fuel systems in air and spacecraft. He worked on many defense related projects in the LA area…The last project he worked on was the Northrop YF-23. Being a life-long gear head and motorcycle nut, he would visit the aircraft mechanics to chat with them on the systems he was working on, which is how he came to possess the nose nozzle. The part had been removed from the X-15, inspected and was no longer needed, so it was given to him as a souvenir by one of the mechanics.” Sale of this item is limited to US Citizens and Organizations (only) to comply with US technology transfer restrictions. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 41
mercury 2176. Mercury Original Vintage NASA and Press Photograph Archive.
2174. Gus Grissom Typed Letter Signed and Signed Photograph. Two items: a TLS, signed “Virgil I. Grissom,” one
page, 8 x 10.5, NASA letterhead, August 1, 1961, addressed to Howard Sharpe, in full: “Thank you for your congratulations and thoughtfulness. The people of the United States, indeed the entire free world, are very happy and proud because of our successful space flight. Project Mercury is planning for more flights in the future. Let us hope that success follows success.” The second item is a vintage matte-finish 4 x 5 closeup photo of Grissom wearing his Mercury space suit, signed in blue ballpoint, “V. I. Grissom.” In overall very good to fine condition, with tape stains and toning to the letter, not affecting the signature; the signed photo is fine. Starting Bid $200
Collection of 23 vintage glossy NASA photographs from the Mercury program, ranging in size from 5 x 7.5 to 10.5 x 8, documenting the crew, the personnel, the spacecraft, and other notable events that helped spearhead America’s first manned space missions. The assemblage includes eight black-numbered examples, with the reverse of seven bearing NASA caption text or stamps; of the unnumbered examples, a total of 11 have NASA caption text, and three others, each depicting John Glenn in his space suit, are identified as a “NASA–USAF Photo.” Additionally, the reverse of seven photos feature “Return to: Chronicle Files” stamps, two bear “Library, Houston Post” stamps, and two have “Reference, N.E.A” stamps. Numerous photos also feature annotations or affixed stickers or clippings to the reverse. Starting Bid $200
2175. Mercury Astronauts: Grissom, Glenn, and Shepard Signed Photograph. Vintage 9.5 x 13.25 paperstock photo of the launch of the LGM-30A
Minuteman-I rocket from Cape Canaveral on February 1, 1961, signed and inscribed in ballpoint. Double-matted and framed to an overall size of 17.5 x 21. In very good to fine condition, with scattered light creasing, a central horizontal fold, and a small area of surface loss to the upper left corner. Starting Bid $200
The undergraduate Slayton draws “Bolts, Nuts, and Screws” 2177. Deke Slayton Hand-Drawn Technical Diagram. Scarce handdrawn technical diagram by Deke Slayton on an off-white 17 x 11 sheet, titled and signed along the bottom in pencil, “Bolts, Nuts, and Screws, Scale - Full, May 20 1947, University of Minnesota, Drawing 2-3B, D. K. Slayton.” After being discharged from the Army, Slayton studied aeronautical engineering at the University of Minnesota. Here, he drafts a series of technical drawings of bolts, nuts, and screws for one of his classes. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1949, and accepted a job as an engineer with Boeing. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
42 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
gemini
The first US space mission patch, flown for eight days on Gemini 5
2179. Gordon Cooper’s Gemini 5 Flown Patch with Signed Photograph. Fantastic large flown embroidered Gemini 5 mission patch, 4˝ in diameter, affixed to a letter of provenance signed in blue ballpoint by Command Pilot Gordon Cooper, in part: “This patch flew in space on the Gemini 5 mission during August 21 to 29, 1965. The patch and letter are matted alongside a color satin-finish 7 x 9.5 photo of the GT-5 crew after recovery, signed in blue felt tip, “You need a shave! Charles Conrad, Jr.,” and in black felt tip, “Maybe tomorrow! Gordon Cooper.” The display measures an overall 19 x 12.5. In fine condition. A historic flown piece representing America’s pioneering position in the history of manned spaceflight. Starting Bid $300
2 1 8 1 . Gemini 3 Signed Photograph.
Official color glossy 10.5 x 8.25 NASA photo of the Gemini 3 crew of John Young and Gus Grissom carrying their portable ventilation units prior to their mission, signed in blue ballpoint by Young and in black felt tip by Grissom. Reverse bears “A Kodak Paper” watermarks and a McDonnell Aircraft Corporation stamp. In fine condition, with some small creases along the top edge. On March 23, 1965, Young and Grissom orbited the Earth three times in less than five hours to successfully jump-start the Gemini program. A desirable fully signed photo of the Gemini 3 crew. Starting Bid $200
2180. Gemini 3 Original ‘Type 1’ NASA Photograph. Of-
ficial ‘Type 1’ first generation color glossy 10 x 8 rednumbered NASA photo of planet Earth as viewed from the Gemini 3 spacecraft. Pilot John Young took this photo using a modified 70mm Hasselblad camera over Madagascar during the Gemini 3 three-orbit mission on March 23, 1965. The altitude of the ‘Molly Brown’ spacecraft was 100 miles above Earth. The photo, identified as “S–65–18753,” features purple NASA caption text and “A Kodak Paper” watermarks to reverse. In fine condition, with a ballpoint notation to reverse, “GT-3.” Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
2182. Gemini 5 Signed Photograph. Playful
color satin-finish 8 x 10 photo of Conrad and Cooper onboard the recovery ship USS Lake Champlain after the successful splashdown of their Gemini 5 mission, signed in blue felt tip, “You need a shave! Charles Conrad, Jr.,” and in black felt tip, “Maybe tomorrow! Gordon Cooper.” In fine condition. Originates from the Leon Ford Collection. Starting Bid $200
2183. John Young Signed Photograph. Official color
8 x 10 NASA lithograph of John Young in a formal pose, signed in blue ballpoint, “Best regards, John Young.” In very good to fine condition, with a horizontal bend lightly running through the signature and another crease above Young’s head. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 43
2186. Gemini Original Vintage NASA and Press Photograph Archive. Collection of 66 vintage glossy NASA
2184. Gemini 9 Original ‘Type 1’ NASA Photograph.
Official ‘Type 1’ first generation color glossy 10 x 8 red-numbered NASA photo of planet Earth as viewed from the Gemini 9 spacecraft. Beyond the Arabian Sea, India is faintly visible at the far right. The photo, identified as “S–66–54669,” features caption text and “A Kodak Paper” watermarks to reverse. In fine condition, with a speck of emulsion loss to right margin. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
2185. Tom Stafford’s Gemini 9 Flown Patch with Signed Photograph.
photographs from the Gemini program, each approximately 8 x 10 and 10 x 8, documenting the crew, the personnel, the spacecraft, and other notable events from America’s second manned space program. The assemblage includes 29 black-numbered examples (five in color); 18 red-numbered (all color, mostly images of Earth); 14 unnumbered; and five blue-numbered (all color); for a total of 28 color photos. With the exception of one red-numbered color photo, all other color examples have NASA caption text and “A Kodak Paper” watermarks on the reverse. A total of 40 photos feature “Return to: Chronicle Files” stamps on the reverse, with the majority of photos featuring annotations and many marked “File.” Starting Bid $200
Fantastic large flown embroidered Gemini 9 mission patch, measuring 4˝ x 3.5˝, affixed to a letter of provenance signed in blue ballpoint by Command Pilot Tom Stafford, in part: “The Gemini IX crew emblem patch displayed below is one that I carried into space during June 3 to 6, 1966. That was after two previous attempts to fly this mission. First, our Agena docking vehicle failed to reach orbit on May 17. Then on June 1, a smaller back-up vehicle known as the ATDA, or Augmented Target Docking Adaptor, was launched into orbit but our Titan rocket had problems. Finally, Gene Cernan and I made it to orbit on June 3 and when we rendezvous with the ATDA, we realized what the problem was from some of the telemetry it was sending to the ground. The big white aerodynamic shield failed to jettison. I radioed to the ground that it looked like an ‘Angry Alligator!’…Our emblem shows the Roman number IX and a ‘9’ shape in the spacewalk tether.” The patch and letter are matted alongside a color satin-finish 7.25 x 9.25 photo of the ‘Angry Alligator’ as seen from the Gemini spacecraft, signed in black felt tip, “Gene Cernan, Gemini IX.” The display measures an overall 19.5 x 12.5. In fine condition. Starting Bid $500 44 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
project apollo hardware & spacesuit parts 2189. Apollo Command Module Block 1 and Block 2 Components. Collection of four mock-up components associated with the Apollo Command Module Block 1 and Block 2, including: an oxygen test port bleed system linkage, engraved on the reverse, “R16-333059-3, Mock-Up 28”; a crew ingress/egress handle, marked on the back of the base, “3 Mar ‘66, V36-311060-1”; a main display push panel cover, marked on the reverse, “V36-761085-61”; and three pieces of an Apollo sextant mounting bracket, including an unmarked mount and two plates, marked with part numbers “204 075 266 41, 204-0755-266-42” and “204 075 266 53A.” In overall very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2190. Apollo and Skylab Beta Cloth Lot of (6) Bags and Containers. Collection of six Beta cloth bags and assemblies from
the Apollo and Skylab programs, including: two Apollo Command Module developmental Beta cloth bags, one marked “Chlorine Injector”; an Apollo Command Module Beta cloth temporary storage pouch assembly featuring a Velcro-secured elastic band at the top of the pouch and corners are mounted to metal brackets; a Skylab/ASTP M071/M073 Sample Return Container constructed of Beta cloth; Skylab/ASTP Beta Cloth Cargo Restraint Harness; and an Apollo Command Module Beta cloth temporary storage pouch assembly intended for S/C 119, accompanied by the original Rockwell Parts Control Tag, marked with an inspection date of August 6, 1973 (CSM 119 was designated as a potential rescue vehicle for the Skylab Program and later for the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project). In overall very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2191. Apollo Command Module Block 1 and Block 2 Control Panel Components. Collection of thirteen Apollo Command Module
Block 1 and Block 2 mock-up control panel components, primarily consisting of electroluminescent overlays. The Apollo spacecraft saw the first application of electroluminescent lighting, which generated a blue glow that allowed astronauts to sleep or run exercises that required low light within the module. This grouping includes a mock-up audio control panel marked “6” on the face, featuring four knobs (attached with metal axles on wooden blocks, no electronics); a mock-up audio control panel featuring text related to volume controls and five knobs mounted in a similar manner, with some text plates missing; a telecommunications panel marked as “225” on the face, with part number “V36-762165-41” and several wooden blocks on the reverse; two different communications panels with markings related to volume and radio controls (one marked on the reverse with a manufacture date of “2-71”); a panel marked “16” with a long slot on the front and text associated with the docking target and COAS power, marked on the reverse with a manufacture date of “3-69”; a panel marked “VHF Antenna,” with manufacture date of “12-68” on the reverse; a panel marked “229” on the face with circular holes for EPS groups, marked with a manufacture date of “12-67” on the reverse; a long rectangular panel for power systems, marked with a manufacture date of “12-67” on the reverse; three large trapezoid-shaped panels with text for environmental, propulsion, and stabilization control systems, one with a manufacture date of “12-67” and another with a date of “2-69,” the third undated; and a panel with sections for “SPS Gauging,” “Suit Compressor,” and “Glycol Pumps.” In overall very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $300
www.RRAuction.com | 45
2192. Apollo Command Module Block 1 and Block 2 Control Panel Components. Collection of twelve Apollo Command Module Block 1 and Block 2 mock-up control panel components, primarily consisting of electroluminescent overlays. The Apollo spacecraft saw the first application of electroluminescent lighting, which generated a blue glow that allowed astronauts to sleep or run exercises that required low light within the module. This grouping includes a fuse panel with glued-on fuse holder caps (marked on the reverse with part numbers “V36-762014-11” and “V36-762013-21”); a large panel marked “8” on the face; a trapezoid-shaped panel marked “306” on the face; two different communications panels with markings related to volume and radio controls (one marked on the reverse with a manufacture date of “8-70”); a panel marked “VHF Antenna”; a panel with markings for fuel cells, with a manufacture date of “12-67” on the reverse; a panel with markings for power switches, with a manufacture date of “8-69” on the reverse; a “Systems Test” panel marked “101” on the face; a panel with an “Abort System” section; a lighting panel with a manufacture date of “12-67” on the reverse; and an electrical power circuit breaker panel marked “275,” with a plate on the bottom piece identifying it as part number “V36-452050-901.” The panels measure between and 8.75˝ x 4.25˝ and 24˝ x 12˝. In overall very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $300
2193. Apollo Hardware Lot of (6). Group of six pieces of Apollo hardware, including: an Apollo CSM SPS Cryogenic Hose
used in the propellant pressurization system; an Apollo CM electrical wiring cover used to protect cables routed throughout the spacecraft; an Apollo Block I Command Module Signal Conditioner Power Supply; two Apollo Command/Service Module Helium Disconnects; and an Apollo Block II Overcurrent Sensor and Transfer Switch. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
46 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Fuel Cell No. 3 from the Apollo CSM Simulator 2194. Apollo Command Module Fuel Cell. Apollo CSM Fuel Cell Serial
Number 3, one of the triad used in the Ground Testing Simulator to test all of the electrical systems in development for Apollo. With electrical and liquid oxygen and hydrogen connectors on the side panel, the unit measures 22” in diameter and 43” tall, with a weight of approximately 200 lbs. Manufactured by Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Corp under subcontract for North American Aviation. This particular fuel cell is Serial Number 3 from the simulator, with a Feb 1968 edition part tag with a functional test noted for 9/8/69. It is identical to the flight unit, but with additional simulator functionality and interfaces. Having a power source similar to the flight item was essential to test all of the other electrical systems for Apollo. Red letters on the side read “Simulator Fuel Cell Powerplant.” This fuel cell has been modified with a simulator interface to replicate/check some of the mechanical, electrical and fluid exchanges between the powerplant and the rest of the CSM Environmental Control System (ECS), otherwise it’s identical to flight. This configuration is what is currently on display at national institutions (Smithsonian NASM, New Mexico Museum of Space History and the USSRC). Its function was as part of a Fuel Cell simulator package used to validate that the Service Module interfaces were properly functional (control, power, reactants, water output) at North American prior to installation of the flight fuel cells. This piece will be crated and shipped from California; the buyer is responsible for all associated costs. One of the primary technology developments during Apollo concerned the electrical systems, and they became a focal point of the Apollo 13 rescue mission, from the explosion in the Service Module fuel cell oxygen tank to the resulting need to conserve energy and shift to the LM as a lifeboat. Starting Bid $2500
www.RRAuction.com | 47
SE-8 rocket engine for the Apollo Command Module
2195. Apollo Command Module SE-8 Rocket Engine. Test-fired Rocketdyne SE-8 rocket engine for an Apollo Command Module Reaction Control System (RCS) bi-propellant thrust chamber assembly manufactured in the first quarter of 1964, weighing 9.3 lbs, measuring 11.25˝ in height and 5˝ in diameter, with dual wiring extending to approximately 36˝ in length. The Rocketdyne label, which features considerable wear and tear, reads, in part: “Propulsion System Component, Rocket Engine Assy, Part No. 99-106003…Serial No. 4058360.” The unit contains various felt tip notations, “2108” and others relative to mounting, as well as numerous part numbers and inspection stamps, with examples as follows: “For Breadboard Test Only, 23 H # R17391,” “REF: ECR 154062,” “Test Only,” and “207576, S/N 7018319.” The fuel and oxidizer valve assemblies are present to the upper portion with red caps. In very good condition, with expected wear from testing. Twelve of these engines were installed on the Apollo Command Module (CM), with each utilizing the propellants Nitrogen Tetroxide (N2O4) and Monomethylydrazine (MMH) as fuel. SE-8s were integrated on the CM in two systems of six engines and provided it with rotation control, rate damping, and attitude control after its separation from the Service Module and during reentry. Sale of this item is limited to US Citizens and Organizations (only) to comply with US technology transfer restrictions. Starting Bid $300
2196. Apollo Lunar Module ‘Barber Pole’ Talkback Indicator.
Talkback indicator—commonly called a ‘barber pole’ due to its blackand-white stripes—for the Apollo Lunar Module, measuring 1.75˝ x 1˝ x .5˝, sealed in its Grumman packaging with “Read Before Opening” tags. An affixed Honeywell parts tag reads: “Flag Display Indicator, Mfr Part No. JG913A2, Series 5, Serial No. 238, Part No. LSC350-80404-09, Contract No. NAS 9-1100.” Mounted on the instrument panels, ‘barber pole’ indicators were used to denote the status of various systems: when covered by a gray flag, the system was operating as normal; in the case of an abnormal or in-progress status, the flag would be actuated to reveal the ‘barber pole’ as a visual indicator. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
The vital ‘Buddy Secondary Life Support System’ used during Apollo 14 training 2197. Buddy Secondary Life Support System Training Stowage Bag. Beta cloth Buddy Secondary Life Support System (BSLSS) stowage bag
personally used by Commander Alan Shepard during training for the Apollo 14 mission. The bag measures 15 x 11.5 and has a side flap cover with snap closure, as well as an upper strap, 33.5˝ in length, with looped locking hardware at each end. In fine condition. First used on Apollo 14, the Buddy Secondary Life Support System (BSLSS) was a set of hoses and connectors designed in the case of a failed Portable Life Support System (PLSS) during an extended lunar EVA, which ultimately enabled the astronaut with the functioning PLSS to share cooling water with his partner. From the collection of Dan Schaiewitz, who worked as Extravehicular Crew Training Engineer at KSC. Starting Bid $200
48 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Flown lift thruster from Lunar Landing Training Vehicle #3, used to train Apollo crews for the moon landings
2198. Apollo Lunar Landing Training Vehicle (LLTV) Flown Rocket Engine. Flown thruster rocket engine de-
installed from Lunar Landing Training Vehicle 952 (LLTV #3) following its application on multiple flights, documented with an operational (engine run) time of 2 hours, 11 minutes and 27 seconds. The engine measures approximately 9˝ x 7˝ x 5˝, and is stamped on the propellant inlet: “LLRV S/N 2.” This serial number pertains to the motor, rather than the vehicle; the LLTV superseded the Lunar Landing Research Vehicle (LLRV) and the motors were reappropriated for the LLTV as they both used the same propulsion system. The Bell-manufactured 500-pound thrust hydrogen peroxide motors were installed on the LLTV in a vertically-mounted configuration as ‘lift’ rockets, and were used to simulate the one-sixth lunar gravity the Commander/ Lunar Module Pilot would encounter during descent to the moon’s surface. Accompanied by NASA-MSC parts control tags dated December 11, 1972, describing the engine: “Part Name: Lift Rt, Part No. 7161-470003-1, A/C or GSE Name & No. NASA 952, Part S/N 2, Part Mfg. Bell, Oper. Time 2:11:27, Removed per T.P.S. 52-1215.” NASA’s Lunar Landing Research Vehicle Monograph (SP-2004-4535) states that average flight time was 7 minutes, indicating that this rocket engine supported approximately 18 training flights throughout its two hours of operation. Following removal (as directed via Test Preparation Sheet (TPS) 52-1252), the lift engine was downgraded by NASA to ‘Not for Flight’ status and decommissioned. In total, ten moonwalkers utilized LLTV 952 to prepare for landing on the lunar surface. Bill Anders described the LLTV as ‘a much unsung hero of the Apollo Program,’ while Neil Armstrong emphasized its importance in an address before the Society of Experimental Test Pilots in 2007: ‘The Lunar Landing Training Vehicle, or LLTV, proved to be an excellent simulator and was highly regarded by the Apollo Lunar Module crews as necessary for lunar landing preparation.’ Sale of this item is limited to US Citizens and Organizations (only) to comply with US technology transfer restrictions.Starting Bid $1500
www.RRAuction.com | 49
Flight-ready Lunar Module AC Power Inverter, a critical subsystem in the Apollo 13 crisis 2199. Apollo Lunar Module AC Power Inverter. Rare flight version
of an Apollo Lunar Module AC Power Inverter in its handling frame, measuring an overall 11˝ x 29.5˝ x 12˝ and weighing 41 lbs, with a NASA/Manned Spacecraft Center property tag and Hamilton Standard label on the unit: “Inverter, General Purpose Electrical Power Subsystem, Design Control No. LSC-390-69-7, Contract No. NAS-91100/2-24494-C, Unit No. 43, HS Part No. SV718452 P10, Serial No. 145.” A Hamilton Standard plate on the handling frame reads: “Handling Kit, Inverter, Part No. SV714594, Serial No. HK14, HS Ref No. 19932 A.” A Hamilton Watch Company “elapsed time” indicator is set into the frame. In very good to fine condition. This piece will be crated and shipped from California; the buyer is responsible for all associated costs. Lunar Module energy management was essential to the survival of the Apollo 13 mission, as the explosion in the Service Module Fuel Cell system necessitated using the Lunar Module as a propulsive and energetic lifeboat for the crippled spacecraft. Starting Bid $500
Patek Philippe rubidium calibration clock used by NASA
2200. NASA Rubidium Calibration Clock. Apollo-era
rubidium calibration clock likely used by NASA to calibrate timing reference sources, measuring approximately 7.5˝ x 7˝ x 17.5˝, featuring a 24-hour Patek Philippe face surrounded by a large second-dial, “Loop Null” and “Battery Current” indicators below, a fine-tuning knob, and multiple switches. Inputs for multiple frequencies line the top of the unit. A NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center” property label is affixed above the clock face, the right side has an affixed manufacturer’s label, “Model 307A Rubidium Clock, General Technology Corporation, Los Angeles, California, Subsidiary of Tracor, Inc.” The top has a tag with a date of “8-72,” and the rear provides access to the AC input and fuses. The power cord is included. In very good to fine condition. The rubidium standard is used to provide a very stable timing reference source; this was more prevalent prior to the availability of GPS timing. Starting Bid $300
50 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Harmonic drive unit designed for the Lunar Rover
2201. Lunar Rover Harmonic Drive Unit. Harmonic drive
unit designed for use on the Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV), measuring approximately 5˝ x 3˝ x 3˝, with the toothed outer spline ring marked “734L649/B, S/N 8,” and bearings on the internal shaft marked “NDH XB:16864 USA 70B 8” and “NDH XB-16864 USA 70B-17.” The unit is displayed on a wooden stand with affixed description: “Harmonic Drive, ‘Used on the Lunar Rover,’ Device functioned as a transmission. One was installed in the hub of each wheel. They were welded to electric motors turning at 10,000 rpms. The gear ratio is 80 to 1, it enabled the vehicle to travel at a top speed of 15 MPH. Cost of each device to NASA was approximately $57K.” Includes several associated materials from the career of an engineer who worked on the project, highlighted by a framed 29.75˝ x 22˝ display featuring an original embroidered “Lunar Roving Vehicle Team Member” patch; an Apollo 8 medallion containing metals carried on the mission, affixed to its original presentation letter which bears Frank Borman’s facsimile signature; a 1970 letter from the USM Corporation’s Gear Systems Division presenting the Apollo 8 medallion in recognition of “untiring efforts to the Lunar Vehicle Program and the Apollo 15 mission”; and a photo of Buzz Aldrin, featuring a pre-printed signature. Additional materials include a gold-tone LRV lapel pin; a blank NASA-MSFC Lunar Roving Vehicle log book; two NASA Flight Awareness newsletters from April 1971; a print of an artist’s rendering of the rover; a NASA “Critical Space Item” shipping label; a 1976 Kennedy Space Center sticker; a USAF “Offense by Defense” patch; and ink signatures of Apollo 15 moonwalkers Dave Scott and Jim Irwin taped to a glossy 10 x 8 photo of the Lunar Rover trainer. In overall very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $500
Flashlight flown aboard the Apollo 9 Gumdrop and Spider, from the personal collection of the mission LMP
2202. Rusty Schweickart’s Apollo 9 Flown Flashlight and Batteries.
Rusty Schweickart’s incredible flown brass two-celled flashlight and pair of AA batteries carried aboard both the Command Module Gumdrop and the Lunar Module Spider during the Apollo 9 mission. The brass-milled flashlight, 5˝ in length, is signed and flight-certified twice in black felt tip, “Flown on Apollo 9, Rusty Schweickart,” and features engraved part numbers: “ACR FA-5, Serial No. 1011, Date of Mfg. 6–68.” The head of the flashlight features an affixed swatch of Velcro, and the two AA batteries are both marked on the side: “Sept. 68, –RM–21–CMC, 1.35 V.” In overall fine condition, with tarnishing and expected wear from use to flashlight, and noted corrosion to ends of batteries. Accompanied by a signed letter of authenticity from Schweickart, who states that the flashlight and batteries were “carried aboard the Apollo 9 Command Module ‘Gumdrop’ and Lunar Module ‘Spider’ during our 10 day, 1 hour, 54 second flight in 1969. The flashlight comes from my personal collection.” Starting Bid $1000 www.RRAuction.com | 51
project apollo 2203. Apollo 14, 15, 16, 17 NASA Press Kits. Grouping of five official NASA publications relating to Apollo missions 14, 15, 16, and 17. In overall fine condition, with wear and creasing to edges and some rust to staples. From the collection of Tim Furniss, Flight International magazine’s spaceflight correspondent from 1984 to 2006, and author of over 35 published books on space history. Starting Bid $200
2204. Apollo Program Group of (11) Beta Cloth Patches. Extremely desirable assemblage of 11 Beta cloth patches with insignia honoring the manned missions of the Apollo program, ranging in size from 8 x 8.25 to 9.25 x 10, with each patch signed in black ink or felt tip by a member of their respective mission, including: Apollo 7 (“Walt Cunningham, Apollo 7”), Apollo 8 (“James Lovell, Apollo 8”), Apollo 9 (“Jim McDivitt, Apollo 9”), Apollo 10 (“Tom Stafford, Apollo X”), Apollo 11 (“Michael Collins, Apollo XI”), Apollo 12 (“Alan Bean, Apollo 12 LMP”), Apollo 13 (“Fred Haise, Apollo 13”), Apollo 14 (“Edgar Mitchell, Apollo 14 LMP”), Apollo 15 (“Dave Scott, Apollo 15 CDR.”), Apollo 16 (“Charlie Duke, Apollo 16”), and Apollo 17 (“Gene Cernan, Apollo XVII”). In overall fine condition. Accompanied by certificates of authenticity from Astronaut Central for the Collins and Lovell patches. Starting Bid $300
2205. Apollo-Era Fruit Cocktail Drink. Apollo-era spacefood
package containing a freeze-dried fruit cocktail drink mix, 3.5˝ x 14.5˝ x .5˝, labeled on the front: “Fruit Cocktail, 3 oz. water, 6-10 minutes.” In very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $200
52 |
Juky 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2206. Apollo-Era Peanut Cubes. Apollo-era spacefood
package containing peanut cubes, 5˝ x 3.5˝ x .75˝, labeled “Peanut Cubes” on the front and bearing an affixed Whirlpool Corporation label. These six cubes were intended to be eaten without the addition of water, and were ‘bite-sized’ to minimize the possibility of crumbs. In very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2207. Apollo Pre-Moonlanding Original Vintage NASA and Press Photograph Archive. Impressive collection of 41 official glossy NASA photos celebrating the evolution of the Apollo program prior to the historic moon-landing of the Apollo 11 mission, each approximately 8 x 10 or 10 x 8, with the large majority of the photos bearing NASA caption text, stamps, and annotations to reverse; eight feature “A Kodak Paper” watermarks and several contain “Return to: Chronicle Files” press stamps.Starting Bid $200
2208. Apollo Program and Space Shuttle Original Vintage NASA and Press Photograph Archive. Collection
of 87 vintage official NASA photos honoring Apollo missions 12–17 and the Space Shuttle program, glossy and silver gelatin, each approximately 8 x 10 or 10 x 8, with the large majority of the photos bearing NASA caption text, annotations, and press stamps to reverse. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 53
apollo 7 Flown communications/ instrumentation adapter from the first manned Apollo flight
2187. Apollo 7 Flown Crew-Member Constant Wear Garment (CWG) Adapter. Flown crew-
member Constant Wear Garment (CWG) Adapter used on the Apollo 7 mission, measuring approximately 17˝ long, marked on one end: “V36-71510311, 06362AAH0595.” After the flight, the adapter was redesignated/repurposed by NASA after on-orbit use for ground test application(s), and is now marked “Ground Test Only” on the side. The adapter was used to connect the communications soft hat (‘Snoopy cap’) and bioinstrumentation harness (worn under the CWG) to the external communications cable. In very good to fine condition. Crewed by Wally Schirra, Donn Eisele, and Walt Cunningham, Apollo 7 was the first manned flight of the Apollo program. It was a complete technical success, demonstrating the capabilities of the Command/Service Module and the Saturn IB launch vehicle.
Provenance determination statement: Item authenticated as flown onboard Apollo 7 on the basis of visual serial number comparison between the artifact (printed serial number) and NASA Apollo Spacecraft Hardware Utilization Request (ASHUR) #101517. Starting Bid $200
2210. Apollo Astronaut Recordings C a s s e t t e Ta p e .
2209. Walt Cunningham Signed Parachute Fabric.
Large swatch of white parachute fabric, approximately 16 x 14, signed in blue ballpoint, “Our life insurance, Walt Cunningham, Apollo 7.” In fine condition. with irregularly cut edges. Starting Bid $200
54 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Unique original TDK cassette tape recorded in December 1968 by Lewis A. Hartzell, chef to the astronauts during the Gemini and Apollo programs, containing greetings from various astronauts to Hartzell’s son and mother. The tape opens with a somewhat difficult to hear conversation between Hartzell and Neil Armstrong, in which Hartzell says asks Neil when he will be flying. Neil answers to the effect of, “If we can get Frank Borman sick I’ll go next week,” as he was the backup commander for Apollo 8, which launched on December 21, 1968. Interestingly, Borman did get sick during the flight. When asked again when he will be flying, Armstrong says that the astronauts can only have one assignment at a time, but he hoped to fly in the near future. Armstrong’s message is followed by clearer greetings from other Apollo astronauts—Bill Anders, Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, Jim McDivitt, Richard Gordon, and Rusty Schweickart—generally offering wishes for a merry Christmas and happy New Year, and complimenting Hartzell’s cooking. The tape closes with a recording of the Apollo 8 moon shot as it was being heard inside NASA headquarters at Cape Canaveral, including radio transmissions and comments from people inside the building. In fine condition. Accompanied by a modern duplicate of the cassette, so that it may be played without wearing out the original. Starting Bid $200
2211. Apollo 9 Flown Flag Presentation Signed by Jim McDivitt. Exceptional
pairing of flown 6 x 4 flags—the American flag and the state flag of Michigan—carried on the Apollo 9 mission, affixed to their original 13.5 x 10.5 presentation mount, signed later on the mount in black felt tip, “Jim McDivitt, Apollo 9 CDR.” Displayed in the original 16.5 x 13.5 wooden frame, with a presentation plaque on the bottom: “Presented to Governor William G. Milliken, By Colonel James C. McDivitt.” In fine condition, with show-through adhesive to corners of the flags, and wear to the original frame; the backing has been replaced with an acid-free mat, but the original cardboard is also included. McDivitt graduated from Michigan’s Kalamazoo Central High School in 1947, then joined the Air Force as a fighter pilot during the Korean War. Upon returning, he attended the University of Michigan and graduated first in his class with a BS in aeronautical engineering in 1959. William Milliken served as Michigan’s governor from 1969 to 1983, making this a fine association piece between McDivitt’s Michigander background and his success as an astronaut. Starting Bid $500
apollo 9 2188. Apollo 9 Flown Access Panel Plug. Flown
˝.75 x ˝.5 access panel plug carried into geocentric orbit during the Apollo 9 mission, affixed to a circular wooden display measuring 3.25˝ in diameter. In fine condition. From the personal collection of Paul Kruppenbacher, a member of the NASA Houston Landing and Recovery Division who trained Apollo astronauts in water recovery procedures and was deployed on U.S. Navy aircraft carriers for crew and spacecraft recovery operations. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 55
2212. Apollo 9 Flown Scissors. Flown scissors carried on board the Apollo 9 mission, originally from the col-
lection of Apollo 9 CMP Dave Scott. The stainless steel surgical-type scissors measure approximately 8˝ long and were manufactured by Weck, with the part number and serial number, “SDB42100059-202” and “S/N 1006,” printed near the hinge on one side, and “Weck U.S.A. Stainless” and “Wexteel” markings engraved on the handle. A small swatch of Velcro is affixed near the screw, and the scissors retain 12.5˝ of their original braided lanyard. In fine condition, with good spring tension. Accompanied by a signed letter of provenance from Scott. Starting Bid $1000
2213. Apollo 9 Original ‘Type 1’ NASA Photograph. Official ‘Type
1’ first generation color glossy 10 x 8 red-numbered NASA photo of the Apollo 9 Command Module ‘Gumdrop’ as viewed from the Lunar Module ‘Spider’ on the fifth day of the earthorbital mission. Inside the LM were Commander Jim McDivitt and LMP Rusty Schweickart, while Command Module Pilot Dave Scott remained at the controls of the ‘Gumdrop.’ The photo, identified as “AS9–24–3634,” features purple NASA caption text and “A Kodak Paper” watermarks to reverse. In fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
2214. Apollo 9 Original ‘Type 1’ NASA Photograph. Official ‘Type
1’ first generation color glossy 10 x 8 red-numbered NASA photo of the docked Apollo 9 Command Module ‘Gumdrop’ and Lunar Module ‘Spider,’ with Earth in the background, during CMP Dave Scott’s stand-up extravehicular activity on the fourth day of the earth-orbital mission. LMP Rusty Schweickart took this photograph from the porch of the Lunar Module. The photo, identified as “AS9–20–3064,” features “A Kodak Paper” watermarks to reverse. In fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
2215. Jim McDivitt’s Apollo 9 Flown Schematic. Flown
Apollo 9 CSM overview schematic for the fuel cell/cryogenic system, 22 x 10.5, vertically signed and flight-certified in the left margin in green felt tip, “’Flown on Apollo 9,’ Jim McDivitt.” The schematic bears an affixed tab to the right side, “FC/Cryo,” and diagrams the connections and pathways for Fuel Cell 1, as well as general hardware locations within the Command Module to the upper left. In fine condition. Accompanied by a signed letter of provenance from McDivitt, in part: “This CSM Fuel Cell/Cryogenic schematic was flown on Apollo 9 in March, 1969, aboard the LM-3 moon lander ‘Spider,’ flying for the first time.” The fuel cells and cryogenic oxygen tanks are the systems that would later catastrophically fail during Apollo 13, and Fuel Cell 1 in particular was a key point of failure. A superb example of a page from an early flown Apollo manual. Starting Bid $100
56 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
apollo 10 Certified by the mission LMP—“Flown to moon on Apollo X” 2216. Apollo 10 Flown Strap. Flown fabric strap car-
2217. Apollo 10 Original ‘Type 1’ NASA Photograph. Official ‘Type 1’ first generation
color semi-glossy 10 x 8 red-numbered NASA photo of the planet Earth rising above the lunar horizon, photographed from the Apollo 10 Lunar Module ‘Snoopy,’ looking west in the direction of travel. At the time this picture was taken, the Lunar Module was located above the lunar farside highlands. The photo, identified as “AS10–27–3890,” features purple NASA caption text and “This Paper Manufactured by Kodak” watermarks to reverse. In fine condition, with a small area of clear adhesive residue to reverse. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $300
ried into lunar orbit during the Apollo 10 mission, 8.75 x 1, signed and flight-certified in black ink, “Flown to moon on Apollo X CSM, Gene Cernan Feb 21, 2009.” The strap features a pair of female snap fasteners, with reverse stamped with part numbers: “V35–788028, CA0058.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a photo taken at the time of the signing. Flown provenance derived from Gene Cernan inscribed (authenticated) declaration on artifact. Starting Bid $200
2218. Apollo 10 Original ‘Type 1’ NASA Photograph. Of-
ficial ‘Type 1’ first generation color glossy 10 x 8 red-numbered NASA photo of planet Earth as viewed from the Apollo 10 spacecraft during its translunar coast toward the moon, with the Arabian Peninsula prominent to the center of the image. The photo, identified as “AS10–34–5043,” features purple NASA caption text and “A Kodak Paper” watermarks to reverse. In fine condition, with trivial wear to edges. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
apollo 11 “No dream is too high,” writes Buzz, “for those with their eyes in the sky”
2219. Buzz Aldrin Oversized Signed Photograph. Oversized official color 11 x 14 NASA lithograph of LMP Aldrin standing next to the American flag on the lunar surface during the historic first EVA of the Apollo program, signed and inscribed in the lower border in black felt tip, “To Ralph, No dream is too high for those with their eyes in the sky, Buzz Aldrin.” In fine condition. Consignor notes that this oversized Apollo 11 lithograph was signed by Aldrin at the Dunes Hotel and Country Club in Las Vegas in 1970. Before Aldrin signed the lithograph, the consignor asked him to write a ‘short inscription about what he thought of when he looked at the photos.’ Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 57
2220. Buzz Aldrin Signed Photograph. Color satin-finish 8 x 10 full-
length photo of Aldrin standing on the lunar surface, his visor showing a small reflection of the photographer, Neil Armstrong, signed in blue felt tip, “First Lunar Landing, Buzz Aldrin, Apollo XI.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from Zarelli Space Authentication. Starting Bid $200
2221. Apollo 11 and 12 Original Vintage Negative and Transparency Collection. Notable collection of 28
vintage official NASA negatives and transparencies from the Apollo program, ranging in size from 1.5 x 1.25 to 3.75 x 4.75, with three negatives and eleven transparencies exclusive to Apollo 11, and one negative and two transparencies exclusive to Apollo 12, with the balance consisting of artistic renderings, rocket launches, and NASA personnel. Highlights include: color negatives of Buzz Aldrin next to the American flag on the lunar surface, the planet Earth, the lunar surface, and an informal portrait of the Apollo 12 crew; and color transparencies of a full moon, the CM Columbia in flight, and the Apollo 12 crew in their white space suits. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
58 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2222. Apollo 11 Lunar Surface Flown Film. Flown .25 x .5 swatch of film carried to the lunar surface aboard the Lunar Module Eagle during the historic Apollo 11 mission. The swatch is affixed to a 8 x 10 certificate of authenticity signed in ballpoint by Richard W. Underwood, Supervisory Aerospace Technologist at the Johnson Space Center. The certificate details the chronology of the film from after liftoff until its return on board the CSM Columbia, stating that “107 photographs were taken on this film roll while on the surface of the moon,” and features facsimile signatures of the full crew. Handsomely double-matted and framed with archival-grade materials with UV-protective Artglass AR99 Acrylic™ with an engraved plaque, embroidered NASA and Apollo 11 patches, and a photo of Buzz Aldrin descending the Eagle ladder to an overall size of 21.75 x 20. In fine condition. Underwood was responsible for developing the Apollo photographs—in fact, he was the first person to view every photograph from the Gemini, Apollo, Skylab, Apollo-Soyuz, and the first 23 space shuttle missions. Starting Bid $200
Carried to the moon on Apollo 11 and “delayed in quarantine” upon return—from Aldrin’s personal collection
2223. Buzz Aldrin’s Apollo 11 Flown Crew-Signed Type 1 Cover. Amazing flown Apollo 11 ‘Type 1’ postal cover
carried to the moon on the first lunar-landing mission, postmarked at Webster, TX on August 11, 1969, and stamped: “Delayed in quarantine at Lunar Receiving Laboratory M.S.C.–Houston, Texas.” Boldly signed in blue felt tip by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, and signed in black felt tip by Michael Collins. Also annotated in the upper left in ballpoint by Aldrin: “A-58, Carried to the Moon on Apollo 11.” The ‘Type 1’ cover features a full-color cachet of lunar surface activities. Although the crew splashed down on July 24, 1969, they and their equipment and belongings were immediately quarantined until August 11, when the covers were able to be postmarked at the Webster, Texas, Post Office. Removably mounted in a sleeve affixed to a letter of provenance signed by Aldrin, noting that the cover had been “in the Aldrin family’s private collection since 1969.” Beautifully cloth-matted and framed to an overall size of 14.5 x 17. In fine condition. A superb example, these covers are seldom seen where part of Armstrong’s signature is not obscured by the color cachet. These covers represent the pinnacle for any collection of space-related covers. Starting Bid $2500
www.RRAuction.com | 59
Coveted Apollo 11 ‘Type 1’ insurance cover, with bold pre-launch crew signatures
2224. Apollo 11 Crew-Signed ‘Type 1’ Insurance Cover. Immensely desirable Apollo 11 ‘Type 1’ insurance cover with a color cachet of lunar surface activities, postmarked at Houston on July 20, 1969, the moon landing date of the Lunar Module Eagle, signed in blue felt tip prior to launch by Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, and Buzz Aldrin. These historic covers were flown to Houston after launch for cancellation by Apollo 10 Commander Tom Stafford in his T-38 jet. In fine condition. The famous insurance covers, first produced for Apollo 11, were to provide financial security for astronauts’ families in case of disaster. They have earned near-legendary status as the ultimate space-related philatelic item and one of the most sought-after formats for astronaut autographs. Starting Bid $1000
2225. Apollo 11 Original ‘Type 1’ NASA Photograph. Official ‘Type
1’ first generation color glossy 10 x 8 red-numbered NASA photo of Lunar Module Pilot Buzz Aldrin preparing to deploy the Early Apollo Scientific Experiments Package (EASEP) on the surface of the moon during the historic Apollo 11 mission. The photo, identified as “AS11–40-5931,” features purple NASA caption text and “A Kodak Paper” watermarks to reverse. In fine condition, with some stray ink marks in the right border and small creases to upper right and lower left corners. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
60 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2226. Apollo 11 Original ‘Type 1’ NASA Photograph. Official ‘Type
1’ first generation color glossy 10 x 8 red-numbered NASA photo of a close-up of a moon rock under study and examination in the Manned Spacecraft Center’s Lunar Receiving Laboratory; this specimen was one of several collected by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin during their extravehicular activity on the lunar surface during the Apollo 11 mission. The photo, identified as “S–69–40948,” features purple NASA caption text and “A Kodak Paper” watermarks to reverse. In fine condition, with slight crazing to lower left corner. Encapsulated in a PSA/ DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
Hand controller ‘dust boot’ flown on the Apollo 11 Command Module ‘Columbia’ 2227. Apollo 11 Flown CM Hand Controller DustBoot Cover. Flown Apollo 11 Com-
mand Module Rotation Hand Controller Dust Boot removed from the base of Rotation Controller #2, located between the middle and left seats. This controller was used for docking the Command Module to the Lunar Module. The gray rubber dust boot has five accordion-like segments, and is displayed on a plaque with a replica of the ‘joystick-type’ hand controller grip. The wooden plaque features an engraved plate, reading: “Apollo 11 Rotation Control Handle ‘Dust Boot’ Flown to the Moon on CM-107 Columbia, From RC #2, Used for LM Docking.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a letter of provenance. A unique flown piece that was utilized in the critical LM/CM docking sequence during man’s first lunar landing mission. The accompanying letter attests to this boot having been removed from the Columbia’s Rotational Hand Controller #2 by NASA employee Bill Whipkey while serving in the capacity of producing presentation pieces for the Apollo 11 crew. The dust boot was originally consigned to RR directly from Mr Whipkey’s close friend (Sandy Clarkson) and purchased by the current owner/consignor.. Starting Bid $500
2228. Apollo 11 Original ‘Type 1’ NASA Photograph. Official
‘Type 1’ first generation color glossy 10 x 8 red-numbered NASA photo of the interior of the Mission Operations Control Room in the Mission Control Center, Building 30, during the Apollo 11 lunar extravehicular activity, with astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin visible on the overhead television monitor. The photo, identified as “S–69–39817,” features purple NASA caption text and “A Kodak Paper” watermarks to reverse. In fine condition. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 61
2229. Apollo 11 Original Vintage NASA and Press Photograph Archive. Collection of 37 vintage glossy
NASA photographs celebrating the historic Apollo 11 mission, ranging in size from 6.5 x 9.5 to 10 x 8, with the majority placing emphasis on crew training exercises in lead-up to the first moon-landing mission. The assemblage includes: three (3) red-numbered color photos, with reverse of two bearing NASA caption text and all three containing “A Kodak Paper” or “This Paper Manufactured by Kodak” watermarks; thirteen (13) black-numbered photos, with eleven bearing NASA caption text and two containing “Kodak” watermarks; and twenty-one (21) unnumbered examples, all with NASA caption text to reverse. The reverse of eight photos feature stamps marked “The Huntsville Times Library,” “Houston Chronicle Library,” “Library, Houston Post,” or “Return to: Chronicle Files,” with numerous photos also bearing typed and handwritten notations, as well as the occasional affixed sticker or clipping.
Photo subjects include (with some duplicates): Neil Armstrong smiling in his space suit during the Apollo 11 mission; the iconic ‘visor’ shot of Buzz Aldrin standing on the moon; the vast cratered farside of the moon as viewed from the Apollo 11 spacecraft; Aldrin setting up the solar wind experiment during a lunar landing practice session; Aldrin and Armstrong placing objects in the lunar sample return container during an EVA practice run; Armstrong practicing with the 10-foot-high gain antenna; Aldrin deploying the passive seismometer during training; an astronaut bootprint in the lunar soil at Tranquillity Base; the explosive liftoff of the Apollo/Saturn V space vehicle carrying the Apollo 11 astronauts; Armstrong, Aldrin, and Michael Collins inspecting a two-pound moon rock they presented to the Smithsonian Institute; President Richard Nixon conversing with NASA Administrator Dr. Thomas O. Paine while awaiting splashdown; the Apollo 11 mission insignia, and more. In overall very good to fine condition, with some creasing, wear to edges, and some photos bearing editorial notations to front image. Starting Bid $200
2 2 3 1 . Apollo 11 Signed Book.
2230. Apollo 11 Signed First Day Cover. Desirable
FDC featuring the ‘First Man on the Moon’ stamp, with first day of issue cancellations for “Moon Landing, USA, Jul 20, 1969” and “Washington, DC, Sep 9, 1969,” signed in blue ballpoint by Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins, and in black felt tip by Buzz Aldrin. Addressed in type to “Miss Catherine Ann Hill, c/o Radm C. A. Hill, Jr., U. S. N., Chief U. S. Naval Mission to Brazil.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
62 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Scarce signed book: To the Moon, Section II: The Story in Pictures and Text. First edition. NY: Time-Life Records, 1 9 6 9 . Hardcover, 9.25 x 12.25, 192 pages. Signed on the half-title page in black felt tip by Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins; the adjacent page bears an affixed plastic sleeve containing photos of Armstrong at an event, ostensibly the time he signed this book. In very good to fine condition, with tape stains and associated residue above the signatures. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Novaspace for the Collins signature. Starting Bid $300
Oversized 50th anniversary Robbins restrike, signed by CMP Michael Collins 2232. Apollo 11 Robbins Medal Restrike Signed by Michael Collins. Amazing Apollo 11 Robbins
medal restrike created for the 50th anniversary of the mission, struck from five ounces of silver containing spaceflown material, and encapsulated by NGC with an authentic Michael Collins signature on the label. The oversized 60mm medal features the same design as the original Robbins medallion: the face featuring an early design of the iconic Apollo 11 mission insignia raised in high relief, showing the eagle carrying the olive branch in its beak. The reverse bears the last names of astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins, and is engraved with the launch date of July 16, 1969; moon landing date of July 20, 1969; and return date of July 24, 1969, along with the anniversary dates, “1969–2019.” Encapsulated and graded by NGC as “MS 70.” Collins is said to have signed just 35 of these special Robbins restrikes. Starting Bid $500
The first lunar landing crew sends “thanks for all your Apollo 11 help” 2233. Apollo 11 Signed Photograph. Outstanding
color vintage glossy 10 x 8 red-numbered NASA photo of the Apollo 11 crew in their white space suits against a lunar background, signed and inscribed in black felt tip, “To Tom Lane, Thanks for all your Apollo 11 help—M. Collins,” “Neil Armstrong,” and “Buzz Aldrin.” In fine condition, with some trivial staining along the right edge, and a small crease to the upper right corner tip. Starting Bid $500
www.RRAuction.com | 63
Scarce, fully signed EVA image from Apollo 11 2234. Apollo 11 Signed Photograph. Remarkable
official color semi-glossy 8 x 10 NASA photo of LMP Aldrin deploying the solar panels of the seismometer during the historic EVA of the Apollo 11 mission, with the Lunar Module Eagle and the American flag visible in the background, signed in black felt tip, “Neil Armstrong,” “M. Collins,” and “Buzz Aldrin.” Reverse bears faded purple NASA caption text. In very good to fine condition, with scattered small surface creases and a paperclip impression to the top edge. A decidedly uncommon fully signed photo of the groundbreaking Apollo 11 mission. Starting Bid $500
Dramatic image of the Apollo 11 recovery, signed by the full crew
2235. Apollo 11 Signed Photograph. Outstanding color glossy 7 x 7
photo of the Apollo 11 recovery, affixed to a 13.5 x 10.5 mount, signed on the mount in black felt tip, “Neil Armstrong,” “M. Collins,” and “Buzz Aldrin.” Framed to an overall size of 17.5 x 14.5. In fine condition. An appealing oversized piece fully signed by the first crew to touch down on the lunar surface. Starting Bid $500
64 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Pristine trio of Apollo 11 WSS lithos 2236. Apollo 11 Signed Photographs. Exceptional trio of official color 8 x 10 NASA lithographs of the Apollo 11 astronauts posing in their white space suits, individually signed in black ink, “Neil Armstrong,” “Buzz Aldrin,” and “Mike Collins.” Attractively double-matted and framed together to an overall size of 35 x 19. In overall very fine condition. This is a flawless, particularly attractive complete set of Apollo 11 crew photos. Starting Bid $300
Fully signed art poster honoring Apollo 11’s 20th anniversary 2237. Apollo 11 Signed Poster. Exceptional official color 19.5 x 29.5 NASA poster honoring the 20th anniversary of Apollo 11, signed at the bottom in blue ballpoint by Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins. The handsome poster features an artistic rendition of the iconic ‘visor’ shot of Buzz Aldrin, framed by Neil Armstrong’s memorable words: “One Small Step for a Man, One Giant Leap for Mankind.” Framed to an overall size of 21.5 x 31.25. In fine condition. Starting Bid $300
2238. Neil Armstrong Signed B o o k .
Sought-after signed book: Apollo: Ten Years Since Tr a n q u i l i t y Base. Washington, D.C.: National Air and Space Museum, 1979. Softcover, 8 x 10, 174 pages. Signed nicely on the half-title page in blue ballpoint by Neil Armstrong. In fine condition, with light cover wear. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from Zarelli Space Authentication. Starting Bid $300
2239. Neil Armstrong Signed Photograph.
Beautiful official color 8 x 10 NASA lithograph of Commander Neil Armstrong posing in his white space suit against a lunar backdrop, signed in blue felt tip. In very fine condition. A highly sought-after and uninscribed example. Starting Bid $300
www.RRAuction.com | 65
2240. Neil Armstrong Signed Book. Signed book: Apollo by Robin Kerrod. London: Prion, 1989. Hardcover with dust jacket, 11.5 x 11, 80 pages. Signed on the half-title page in blue ballpoint, “Neil Armstrong, Apollo 11.” In fine condition, with some creasing to the dust jacket, and an ownership notation to the top of the signed page. Accompanied by a letter of provenance: “I had lent this book to my friend Peter Lawson, who was Head of Cranfield Aerospace Engineering, to read. Peter placed this book (playfully) among the exhibits and remarked to Neil that this was one of the projects they had not been involved with, but asked him to sign it, which he did, and Peter passed the book back to me.” Also accompanied by a copy of a newspaper article from July 1996, referencing Armstrong’s honorary visit to the graduation ceremonies of the Cranfield College of Aeronautics. Starting Bid $200
Armstrong and others celebrate 75 years of powered flight
2241. Neil Armstrong Signed Book.
Uncommon signed book: Diamond Jubilee of Powered Flight: The Evolution of Aircraft Design. Published by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 1978. Softcover, 8.5 x 11, 152 pages. Signed on the inside back cover in black felt tip by Neil Armstrong. The back cover and inside back cover are also signed by 23 other attendees of the anniversary conference, including: James H. Doolittle, Milt Caniff, Lowell Thomas, Sergei Sikorsky, Ron Smith, Robert E. Bower, Walter Boyne, Paul E. Garber, George C. Martin, Roy H. Lange, Seymour Z. Rubenstein, Richard L. Foss, and more. In fine condition. Sponsored by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, in cooperation with the Air Force Museum and the University of Dayton School of Engineering, the Diamond Jubilee of Powered Flight was a two-day conference on the design of past and future aircraft that was held at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Museum on December 14 and 15, 1978. Sessions on the evolution of aircraft design covered the first three 25-year periods of aircraft design—including the Wright Brothers’ contributions—and another looked at future design trends like the space shuttle. The event included speeches made by internationally recognized engineers and designers from Lockheed, Boeing, Rockwell, McDonnell-Douglas, U.S. Air Force, and NASA. Starting Bid $200
Tremendously early photo of Armstrong as a Navy pilot 2242. Neil Armstrong Signed Photograph. Extraordinary vintage glossy 8 x 10 close-up photo of Armstrong as a young pilot with the United States Navy, signed and inscribed in blue ballpoint, “To George, with best wishes, Neil Armstrong.” Reverse bears an “Official Navy Photograph” stamp, which credits the photo to George Franchois. In fine condition, with poor-to-moderate handwriting contrast, and a collector’s notation in the bottom border. In 1947, at the age of 17, Armstrong began studying aeronautical engineering at Purdue University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering in 1955. A call-up from the Navy interrupted his studies on January 26, 1949, which led to Armstrong’s eventual promotion as a fully qualified naval aviator and then to his joining the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) in 1955. A magnificently rare and early signed portrait of history’s first moonwalker. Starting Bid $300 66 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Training-used LM descent monitoring chart from Neil Armstrong’s personal collection
2243. Neil Armstrong’s Apollo 11 Training-Used Lunar Module Descent Monitoring Chart. Neil Armstrong’s Lunar Module descent monitoring chart used during training for the Apollo 11 mission, comprised of seven 8.5 x 10.5 chronopaque photographic lunar map panels taped end-to-end, measuring an overall 8.5 x 73.5 when unfolded. The back of the first sheet is marked: “Descent Monitoring Chart, SEB32100025-006, 16 July, Site 2, Training Copy, Updated 26 June.” The legend on the map’s third plate reads: “Edition 1, LM Descent Monitoring Chart - Sheet 2, 16 July 1969 Launch Date - Landing Site No. 2.” The chart shows landmarks of the moon’s surface witnessed around the time of the LM Eagle’s Power Descent Initiation (PDI): the first two panels map the surface from fifteen minutes before PDI to two minutes before PDI. The five other plates trace the LM’s expected path over the lunar surface from four minutes before PDI to five minutes after, with the moment of PDI denoted at the center. On these five plates, the planned LM descent path is printed as the solid white center line, and expected viewing limits from the LM’s windows are demarcated by dashed white lines. The craters Maskelyne, Maskelyne B, and Maskelyne G are seen on the last plate. The actual Apollo 11 landing site is located about 210 kilometers to the west-southwest of the crater Maskelyne. In fine condition. Accompanied by two letters of provenance from The Armstrong Family Collection, signed by Armstrong’s sons, Rick and Mark, both encapsulated by CAG. Provenance: Heritage Auctions, The Armstrong Family Collection III, July 2019. A remarkable piece from the collection of Neil Armstrong, used in training to help familiarize him with the landmarks he would see en route to the lunar surface to become mankind’s first moonwalker. Starting Bid $500
2245. Early Apollo Program Research Archive. Extensive
2244. Paul Calle Signed Sketch of Neil Armstrong.
Fantastic original limited edition large sketch of Neil Armstrong in his white space suit giving a thumbs up by renowned space artist Paul Calle, numbered 4/11, accomplished in graphite on an oversized 9.5 x 6.25 First Day Cover. Postmarked July 20, 1969, the date of the Apollo 11 moon landing, and September 9, 1969, the issue date for the jumbo-sized commemorative “First Man on the Moon” stamp. Signed below the stamp in pencil, “Paul Calle.” Mounted and framed to an overall size of 13 x 9.5. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
archive of early publications related to the growth and development of the Apollo Program, containing a dozen seldom-seen booklets, reports, and manuals, with the majority deriving from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Instrumentation Laboratory, which was later named The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory. Highlights include: Volumes 1 and 2 of the Apollo Guidance and Navigation report “R-500, Space Navigation Guidance and Control,” dated June 1965; four Apollo Guidance and Navigation reports prepared by the MIT Instrumentation Laboratory; an immense bracket-bound manual entitled “Final Report on Special Techniques for Space Navigation, Phase II: Physical Phenomena,” dated July 1964; an MIT booklet entitled “MVLS-69-2, Life Support In Unusual Environments,” dated February 1969; a 34 x 22 blueprint for “Helmet and Visor Assy.” from the MIT Instrumentation Laboratory, dated June 25, 1971; and several other technical reports and manuals. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200 www.RRAuction.com | 67
“Carried to the Moon aboard Apollo XI, July 1969”— Beta patch fully signed by the pioneering crew
2246. Michael Collins’s Apollo 11 Flown Crew-Signed Beta Patch. Michael Collins’s exceptional flown 5.5 x 5.5 swatch of Beta cloth featuring the Apollo 11 insignia carried to the moon during the first lunar-landing mission, signed and flightcertified in black felt tip, “Carried to the Moon aboard Apollo XI, July 1969, Michael Collins,” and also signed by his crewmates, “Neil Armstrong” and “Buzz Aldrin.” Handsomely double-matted and framed beside a handwritten letter of provenance signed by Collins, dated April 2004, in full: “This Apollo XI crew patch was carried to the moon in July 1969 in my personal preference kit and has been in my possession ever since.” In fine condition. A superb flown format fully signed by the first lunar landing crew, boasting excellent provenance from the collection of the CMP. An attractively displayed, spectacular piece of space history. Starting Bid $2500
68 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
apollo 12 2247. Apollo 12 Crew-Signed Flown Flag Display. Superb flown
6 x 4 fabric American flag carried to the moon on the Apollo 12 mission, affixed to a light blue 13.5 x 8.5 presentation mount, neatly signed below in black felt tip by the crew, “Charles Conrad, Jr.,” “Dick Gordon,” and “Alan L. Bean.” Affixed below the flag is a typed caption, “This flag was flown to the moon aboard Apollo 12, 14–24 November 1969.” On the left side is a photograph of the LM Intrepid at the landing site in the ‘Ocean of Storms.’ Matted and framed to an overall size of 19.5 x 14.5. In fine condition. Accompanied by an official glossy 10 x 8 NASA photo of LMP Alan Bean presenting this exact display to JSC Staff Photographer Pat Patnesky. Starting Bid $200
apollo 14
2248. Edgar Mitchell’s Apollo 14 Flown Lunar Module Spoon. Incred-
ible flown spoon carried to the lunar surface during the Apollo 14 mission and used by Edgar Mitchell as his exclusive eating utensil in the Lunar Module Antares. The spoon measures 7˝ in length, with the handle featuring the NASA logo and engraved text: “Edgar D. Mitchell, LM-8 LMP.” The spoon is accompanied by its original plastic packaging with Velcro swatch, as well as by a color photo of Mitchell holding the spoon inside its packaging, with Mitchell signing in black felt tip below a preprinted statement: “This is my Apollo 14 Lunar Module Spoon, which was my eating utensil in the Antares on the Moon!” Also included is a signed certificate of authenticity from Mitchell, who states: “I Certify that the accompanying Apollo 14 Lunar Module Spoon which bears the engraved words ‘Edgar D. Mitchell LMP’ is the eating utensil that I used aboard the Apollo 14 Lunar Module Antares, during my stay with Alan Shepard on the Fra Mauro Highlands of the Moon, during February 5th and 6th, 1971.” Starting Bid $2500
2249. Alan Shepard ‘Type II Flight Spare’ Name Patch.
Uncommon Beta cloth ‘Type II Flight Spare’ name patch for Apollo 14 moonwalker Alan Shepard, 7.5 x 2.5, identified in blue block text, “A. Shepard.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 69
apollo 15 “Carried to the Hadley Delta Mountain, Surface of Moon, Apollo 15”
2250. Apollo 15 Lunar Surface Flown American Flag. Astounding flown American flag, 6 x 4, carried
to the lunar surface aboard the Lunar Module Falcon during the Apollo 15 mission and stowed in the pocket of Commander Dave Scott’s space suit during all three lunar surface EVAs. The flag is signed and flight-certified in blue ink, “Carried to the Hadley Delta Mountain, Surface of Moon, Apollo 15, Dave Scott CDR.” Includes a signed letter of authenticity from Scott, which states, in part, “I hereby certify that the United States flag included with this letter was carried in the pocket of my A7L-B spacesuit…during each of our three EVAs at Hadley Apennine site, including the highest point reached on Hadley Delta Mountain…This special United States flag has been in my personal collection since returning to Earth.” A small image identifying the pocket in which Scott stored the flag is printed at the top of the letter. Both flag and letter are archivally double-matted and framed with an engraved plaque and a large photo of Scott on the moon, with circled flag pocket, to an overall size of 21.5 x 29.75. In fine condition. Starting Bid $2500
Troubleshooting page for the Hasselblad 70mm camera, carried to the lunar surface on Apollo 15 2251. Apollo 15 Surface-Flown Checklist Page Signed by Dave Scott. Flown double-sided
checklist page carried to the lunar surface as part of the Apollo 15 “LM Malfunction Procedures” manual, 10.5 x 8, signed in black felt tip, “Dave Scot, Apollo 15 CDR.” This checklist page provides a troubleshooting flowchart for “70mm Camera Malfunctions.” It was taken from the flown manual entitled “Apollo 15, LM Malfunction Procedures, Part No. SKB32100116386, S/N 1001,” originally from the collection of Dave Scott and sold by RR Auction in April 2018. In fine condition. Accompanied by a provenance packet that includes a certificate of authenticity from Artifact Cloud, a copy of the original letter of provenance, and a notarized certificate attesting to its authenticity. Starting Bid $200
70 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2252. Apollo 15 Trial Cancellation. Scarce
NASA Manned Spacecraft Center Stamp Club commemorative cover with a color cachet honoring ten years of US manned spaceflight, featuring a first day of issue trial cancellation for Apollo 15’s last day of lunar exploration, reading: “United States on the Moon, Aug. 2, 1971.” The cover was created before the flight by Dr. Matthew Radnofsky. In fine condition. This was the cancellation that Dave Scott chose to use on the lunar surface. Starting Bid $200
Flown to the lunar surface in the LM ‘Falcon’
2253. Apollo 15 Flown LM Utility Towel Assembly Bag Flown LM Utility
Towel Assembly Bag carried to the lunar surface on board the Apollo 15 mission, originally from the collection of Apollo 15 CDR Dave Scott. The white Beta-cloth, zippered pouch has a flap at the top, marked: “LM Utility Towel Assy., Mfg. by: B. Welson Co., P/N: SEB421000080-202, S/N: 1120, Date of Mfg. 2/19/68.” The flap also bears a small piece of tape annotated by Scott with his wife’s nickname, “Lurt.” This bag held small towels used by Commander Scott to clean moon dust from his hands and face while inside the Apollo 15 LM ‘Falcon.’ Includes a letter of provenance from Scott to his wife Anne Lurton Scott, August 2, 1972, in part: “This is to certify that the attached ‘LM Utility Towel Assey’ bag was an official item of equipment used aboard the Apollo 15 Lunar Module (LM) during the flight of Apollo 15. It was presented to me after the flight as a remembrance of the mission.” Mounted, matted, and framed together with a portrait and mission patch to an overall size of 14.5 x 31.75. In fine condition.. Starting Bid $2500
apollo 16 Kepler coin carried into lunar orbit during Apollo 16
2254. Apollo 16 Kepler Coin Display [Attested to as Flown by Jack Swigert’s Neice] Entirely rare 1971 Johannes Kepler 400th Anniversary pendant
coin, 1.5˝ in diameter, attested to as flown by the niece of Jack Swigert, and carried into lunar orbit during the Apollo 16 mission on behalf of Apollo astronaut Jack Swigert. The front of the coin features a raised image of what appears to be a crescent moon, and the reverse marked in Italian, noting that the coin was one of 290 issued. The coin is archivally double-matted with the original plastic holder and annotated caption, “Carried on Apollo 16,” an engraved information plaque, an embroidered Apollo 16 mission emblem, and a color satin-finish photo of Charlie Duke during a lunar EVA, signed in gold ink, “Sampling the rim of Plum Crater! Charlie Duke, Apollo 16 LMP.” Archivally mounted and framed using Artglass AR99 Acrylic™ to an overall size of 15.25 x 18.75; backing features a small window that reveals the reverse side of the coin. In overall fine condition. Accompanied by a signed letter of authenticity from the niece of Jack Swigert. Starting Bid $300 www.RRAuction.com | 71
“I believe UFO’s are counterfeit signs and wonders”
2255. Apollo 16 Lunar DustCovered Beta Fragment [Attested to as Flown by Florian Noller]Tiny
fragment of Beta cloth netting, attested to as flown to the lunar surface on Apollo 16 by Florian Noller, measuring approximately .5 x .5, affixed to a limited edition color satin-finish 10 x 8 photo of the Apollo 16 landing site, with the caption: “Beta cloth netting material coated with lunar dust, flown to the lunar surface April 16th–27th 1972.” Numbered and signed on the back: “Sample #98, Florian Noller.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Artifact Cloud, in part: “The beta cloth netting piece attached to the photo presentation was flown to the lunar surface onboard the LM ‘Orion.’ Obtained directly from Apollo 16 moonwalker Charlie Duke. Lunar dust that was ubiquitous in the LM got stuck on many artifacts returned to earth by the astronauts.” Starting Bid $200
2256. Apollo 16 Signed Cover. Postal
cover, 6 x 5, with an affixed Apollo 16 emblem sticker, postmarked on the mission launch date of April 16, 1972, signed in black ballpoint by John Young, in blue ballpoint by Ken Mattingly, and in blue ink by Charlie Duke. In very fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2258. Charlie Duke Signed Apollo 16 Training Orbital Chart. First edition Lunar Module
2257. Charlie Duke Autograph Letter Signed. Fascinating ALS signed “Charlie Duke, Apollo Astronaut,” seven pages, 8.5 x 11, January 16, 1984. Lengthy letter that features Duke expatiating on his Roman Catholic faith, the role of religion in every day life, and the existence of revelations, with Duke offering his thoughts on the difference between a true revelation and a counterfeit sign: “The Bible says the devil will do counterfeit signs, wonder and miracles (2 Thessalonians 2:9 and Matthew 24:24) and I believe UFO’s are counterfeit signs and wonders. Believing this I asked God directly in prayer according to Matthew 7:7 and John 14:14 and God answered my prayer directly confirming my belief.” Duke opens the letter by dismissing the notion that astronauts who have been in space become born again Christians: “I know personally every astronaut who has been in space and less than 10 of them are born again Christians. Most of them probably don’t even believe in God as a personal loving God. There are no (not one) astronauts who have become preachers and hold meetings making thousands of dollars. Jim Irwin does have an organization called High Flight Foundation, which is dedicated to spreading the Gospel of Jesus. I have seen his financial statements and the highest income I have ever seen is $40,000 for one year. From this, he pays rent, salaries, travel expenses, etc. Little is left for his personal use. He drives a Volkswagen.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Orbit Monitor Chart used in training for the Apollo 16 mission, comprising 24 lunar map plates (each 8 x 10.5) taped end-to-end in a loop, signed on plate no. 1 in black felt tip, “076 39 01 Duke: I tell you when we get down to eight miles, we’re gonna really look like we’re down among them. Charlie Duke, Apollo 16 LMP,” and on plate no. 21, “Overhead view of our landing site at Descartes, April 1972, Charlie Duke, Apollo 16 LMP.” The chart’s legend reads: “Orbit Monitor Chart, Apollo 16, April 16, 1975, SKB 32100122384, 1st Edition, February 4, 1972,” and is annotated in ink, “5.” In very good to fine condition, with some old clear tape along one edge. A desirable twice-signed and lengthily annotated piece from the Apollo 16 Lunar Module Pilot. Starting Bid $200
72 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Amazing ‘spare’ Core Tube Cap driven around the moon during the Apollo 16 mission 2259. Charlie Duke’s Apollo 16 Lunar Surface Flown Core Tube Cap.
Charlie Duke’s remarkable flown ‘Core Tube Cap’ carried to the lunar surface during the Apollo 16 mission. The clear plastic cap, 2˝ in diameter, marked “S/N 2056” on the top, traveled to the moon inside the Modularized Equipment Stowage Assembly (MESA) of the Lunar Module Orion. After lunar touchdown, the cap was secured within the Lunar Hand Tool Carrier attached to the Lunar Rover, where it remained for all three lunar surface EVAs. The cap is housed in a transparent pouch initialed and flightcertified in black felt tip by LM Pilot Duke, “Carried aboard the Lunar Rover 2, S/N2056, CMD,” and is joined by an “Apollo 16 Lunar Surface Artifact” card, signed in black felt tip, “Charles M. Duke, Jr.,” which lists information relative to cap “2056,” in particular the presence of “Trace” lunar dust.
Also included with the cap is signed certificate of authenticity, which features an image of Duke holding the cap and artifact card, and states: “This is to certify that the accompanying Apollo 16 Lunar Surface Core Tube Cap was among the Geology Tools driven across the Moon aboard our Lunar Rover...Most of our core tube caps were used, and later delivered with their tubes to the ‘Lunar Receiving Lab.’ This particular cap, however, is a very rare example that was carried on the Moon but became a spare...This Core Tube Cap represents one of the rarest and most historic geology artifacts in the world, and is also one of only a handful of objects on earth that was ever driven aboard a car on the Moon!” All items are archivally cloth-matted and framed to an overall size of 15.5 x 23. In fine condition. Starting Bid $1000
www.RRAuction.com | 73
“I flew the day before Sputnik!”—Duke’s first flight log from USAF training
2260. Charlie Duke’s USAF Flight Training Logbook. Charlie Duke’s first United States Air Force pilot logbook, 7.25 x 4.25, signed on the first page in blue ballpoint, “This is my very first log book as I began USAF flight training in September 1957, Charlie Duke, Apollo 16.” On the “Identification” page, Duke filled out his name and signature (“Duke, Charles M. Jr.,” and “Charles M. Duke, Jr.”), and personal information including birth date (“3 Oct. 1935”), height (“6´ 0˝”), eye and hair color (“Brown”), and weight (“165”). In addition to all of Duke’s original entries logging flights from September 3, 1957, through September 17, 1958, he has gone through and added annotations to describe flights of special significance, signing again in each instance: “My very first flight in an U.S. Air Force Aircraft,” “I flew the day before Sputnik!” “My very first solo in a U.S. Air Force jet” and “I received my USAF pilot wings after this flight.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a signed letter of provenance from Duke. Starting Bid $200
apollo 17 2261. Apollo 17 Lunar Surface Flown Film. Flown .75 x .75 swatch of
film carried to the lunar surface aboard the Lunar Module Challenger during the Apollo 17 mission. The swatch is affixed to a 8 x 10 certificate of authenticity signed in ballpoint by Richard W. Underwood, Supervisory Aerospace Technologist at the Johnson Space Center. The certificate details the chronology of the film from after liftoff until its return on board the CSM America. Included with the film is a color satinfinish photo of Gene Cernan holding the American flag during a lunar EVA, signed in silver ink, “Gene Cernan, Last man on moon, Apollo XVII.” Both are attractively double-matted and archivally framed with an engraved plaque and embroidered NASA and Apollo 17 patches to an overall size of 21.75 x 19.75. In fine condition. Underwood was responsible for developing the Apollo photographs—in fact, he was the first person to view every photograph from the Gemini, Apollo, Skylab, Apollo-Soyuz, and the first 23 space shuttle missions. Starting Bid $300
74 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
The rarest Apollo-flown Robbins medallion, carried on man’s last lunar voyage
2262. Ed Gibson’s Apollo 17 Flown Robbins Medal. Ed Gibson’s rare and historic flown sterling silver Apollo 17
Robbins medal, approximately 1.25? in diameter, featuring a raised design of the mission insignia on the face. The reverse is encircled with raised text, “America-Challenger, Apollo XVII, The Beginning,” and is engraved with the launch date of December 6, 1972, the moon landing date of December 11, 1972, and the reentry date of December 19, 1972. The medal is serial numbered “F44” on the edge. Encapsulated and graded by NGC as “MS 67,” with the label noting the provenance, “Ex: Ed Gibson.” This is one of the most sought-after and difficult-to-obtain of all the Apollo flown medals, as only eighty were flown on man’s final voyage to the moon—the fewest carried on any Apollo mission. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity signed by astronaut Ed Gibson. Starting Bid $5000
www.RRAuction.com | 75
apollo astronauts 18 astronauts lend their names to a two-dollar bill, including Armstrong, Collins, Young, and Duke 2263. Apollo Astronauts Signed Two-Dollar Bill. Series 1963
two dollar bill, signed on the portrait side in ballpoint and felt tip by Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, Donn Eisele, Rusty Schweickart, Wally Schirra, Dick Gordon, Charles Conrad, Walt Cunningham, Charles Duke, Dave Scott, Ken Mattingly, John Young, Tom Stafford, Paul Weitz, and Al Worden; and signed on the reverse in ink and felt tip by Alan Bean, Harrison Schmitt, and Don Lind. In fine condition, with three vertical folds. An impressive collection of astronauts, including six moonwalkers. Starting Bid $200
Featuring history’s first African-American astronaut 2264. Manned Orbiting Laboratory Group 3 Signed Photograph. Choice official glossy 10 x 8 US Air Force photo of the third group of astronauts for the Manned Orbiting Laboratory project, signed in black felt tip, “Bob Herres,” “Bob Lawrence, Jr.,” “Pete Peterson,” and “Jim Abrahamson.” Reverse bears an “Official U.S. Air Force Photo” stamp. In very good condition, with surface impressions and a paperclip impression to the left edge, and creasing which is essentially constrained to the perimeter. A remarkably rare photo elevated by the presence of Robert Henry Lawrence, Jr., the first African-American astronaut, who, at the age of 32, was killed in a training accident on December 8, 1967; his autograph is scarce in any format. Starting Bid $200
Artist’s proof of ‘Naval Aviation in Space,’ limited to 78 and signed by nine space pioneers including Armstrong 2265. Naval Aviation in Space Signed Artist’s Proof Lithograph. Soughtafter limited edition color artist’s proof lithograph of a painting entitled ‘Naval Aviation in Space,’ 25 x 30.25, numbered 75/78 AP, signed in pencil by nine astronauts, all former Naval aviators, representing all of NASA’s space programs, including: Alan Shepard (first American in Space and Apollo 14 Commander/moonwalker), Neil Armstrong (Apollo 11 Commander and first moonwalker), Pete Conrad (Commander of Gemini, Apollo 12 moonwalker, and Skylab missions), Jack Lousma (Skylab astronaut), John Glenn (first American to orbit the earth), Gene Cernan (Commander of Apollo 17 and the Last man on the Moon), Jim Lovell (Commander of Apollo 8, the first flight to/around the moon), Wally Schirra (the only astronaut to fly in the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs), and Rick Hauck (Commander of the first shuttle flight after the Challenger tragedy). Also signed by the artist, R. L. Rasmussen. In fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from the Naval Aviation Museum. The nine astronauts who signed were part of a symposium held at the Naval Aviation Museum in 1989 and the print was originally issued as a fund-raiser. The signatures represent the first American in space, the first American to orbit the earth, and the first and last men to walk on the moon—an ideal ensemble of aeronautic legends. Starting Bid $300 76 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Impeccable 200+ piece vintage NASA photography archive
2266. Apollo Original Vintage NASA Photography Collection. Exceptional NASA photography archive, highlighted
by over 200 original NASA photos documenting the revolutionary Apollo moon-landing program, unsigned, glossy and semiglossy, approximately 8 x 10 or 10 x 8, with the lion’s share dedicated to early testing and exercises for the Apollo 17 mission. The photo archive, divided by mission, is as follows: Apollo 11 (19 photos); Apollo 12 (31); Apollo 13 (4); Apollo 14 (8); Apollo 15 (5); Apollo 16 (1); Apollo 17 (65 photos, plus 32 contact sheets and 5 transparencies). The archive also contains 183 official NASA lithographs; 78 large-format Kodak safety negatives of Apollo equipment and crews during early testing and preparations for the Apollo 11 suit; 28 photos documenting the design and modification of the Primary Life Support System; and more. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $300
www.RRAuction.com | 77
nasa flight directors 2272. Mission Control Signed Photograph. Color semi-glossy 20 x 16 photo of NASA’s Mission Control Center, signed in silver ink by 22 personnel members, including: Arnie Aldrich, Milt Heflin, Milt Windler, Bob Carlton, Alan Briscoe, Jim Kelly, Gary Scott, John Aaron, Bill Moon, Jack Garman, Bill Peters, Rod Loe, Jerry Mill, Hal Loden, Bob Heselmeyer, Dutch von Ehrenfried, Merlin Merritt, and more. Rolled and in fine condition, with some light crazing to the emulsion. Starting Bid $200
Von Braun expresses his delight that a future NASA colleague has chosen “to commit yourself to rocket technology” 2273. Wernher von Braun Typed Letter Signed. TLS in German, one page, 8 x 10.5,
Army Ballistic Missile Agency, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama letterhead, April 28, 1959. Letter to Jesco von Puttkamer, a German-American aerospace engineer and senior NASA manager, with Von Braun mistakenly addressing Puttkamer as “Baron,” confusing him with his father of the same name. In full (translated): “Your letter of April 14th, for which I thank you most sincerely, came into my possession. It is not every day that such a nice and enthusiastic letter ends up on my desk. I was really happy about it, and especially that you wanted to commit yourself to rocket technology. I am convinced that you will be able to give a lot of help and inspiration to other young people who are just starting their studies or who do not know how and where to start a course that leads to a profession in rocket technology. In addition to the practical activity in a development or research institute, this seems to me a quite worthwhile task. What we still need today, perhaps more in Europe than here, is to convey our knowledge and experience to the young people who are the scientists and engineers of tomorrow. You will certainly have the same success with your final exam as with the two compulsory coursework. In any case, I would be very happy for you. With my best wishes for a successful future and best regards.” In fine condition, with scattered light creasing, and file holes to the left edge. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $200 78 |
July 16 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
skylab Carried on the first manned Skylab mission for 28 days 2274. Charles Conrad’s Skylab I Flown Patch. Beautiful flown embroi-
dered Skylab I mission patch, 4˝ in diameter, affixed to a letter of provenance signed in blue felt tip by Commander Charles Conrad, in part: “This cloth patch is one of two similar designs of the Skylab I emblem that is from my personal collection. The above patch has ‘CKW,’ the initials from our last names, to the right of the Skylab space station. I was the commander of the first manned mission to Skylab…This patch was carried with us during the launch of the SL-2 Saturn IB vehicle on May 25, 1973, and flew in space for 28 days.” Matted alongside a color lithograph of the Skylab space station to an overall size of 18.5 x 11.5. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2275. Ed Gibson Signed Skylab 3/SL-4 Flown Cue Card. Single-sided cue card
flown on the Skylab 3 (SL-4) mission, 6.5 x 8, signed and flight-certified along the edge in black felt tip by Science Pilot Ed Gibson, “Flown on Skylab, Ed,” and signed in the corner, “Ed Gibson, Science Pilot, Skylab III.” The cue card is headed “Major 55 Spectral Lines” and charts temperature against height. The back features four small Velcro tabs and is imprinted with the Skylab 3 insignia. In fine condition, with small pieces of tape at the top and bottom. Starting Bid $200
2277. Skylab 4 Original ‘Type 1’ NASA Photograph. Official ‘Type 1’ first
generation color semi-glossy 8 x 10 red-numbered NASA photo of the launch of the Skylab 4 mission from Pad B, Launch Complex 39, at the Kennedy Space Center on November 16, 1973. The photo, identified as “S–73–37285,” features purple NASA caption text and “This Paper Manufactured by Kodak” watermarks to reverse. In fine condition, with a small crease to lower left corner. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder. Starting Bid $200
Made for Schweickart during Skylab 2 training 2276. Rusty Schweickart Skylab Trouser Assembly. Impressive pair of gold-colored trousers made for astronaut Rusty Schweickart during training exercises for the Skylab 2 mission at the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. The trousers are made of woven Durette material and feature metal snaps and Velcro belt cinches to waist and pockets, zippers to front, side and cargo pockets, and removable lower pant sections; the manufacturing tags to inner waist, which have been crossed over in red felt tip, are marked as follows: “Trouser Assy, P/N: SEB13100142–301 (302), S/N: 1047, Crewman: Schweickart, Contract No: NAS9–8309, Date of Mfg: 4–7–72, Mfg By: Welson & Co, Inc.” and “Shorts, P/N: SEB13100142–718 (721), S/N: 1047, Crewman: Schweickart.” In fine condition, with expected wear from use. Trousers like these were later used as part of the Skylab crews’ in-orbit wardrobe. The full ensemble included a matching jacket, short-sleeve knit shirt, and soft fabric ankle-boots, all of which were made of the comfortable, fireresistant woven Durette fabric. A hidden zipper below knee area also allowed the custom-fit trousers to convert easily from pants to shorts. An exceptional pair of trousers made for the backup commander of the first manned Skylab mission. Starting Bid $500
www.RRAuction.com | 79
cosmonauts
Gorgeous watercolor from Leonov, depicting his selection as the pilot of Voskhod 2 2281. Alexei Leonov Original Watercolor Painting. Magnificent original painting by re-
nowned cosmonaut Alexei Leonov, accomplished in watercolor on an 11 x 7.5 sheet of artist’s paper, signed on the right side in graphite. The artwork depicts Pavel Belyayev and Alexei Leonov in the space suits as they’re being given command of the historic Voskhod 2 mission by Sergei Korolev, Chief Designer of the Soviet space program. Attractively double-matted and framed to an overall size of 18 x 14.75; Leonov has also inscribed the painting on the back with the subject matter, “Before the start, Voskhod 2.” In fine condition. The Voskhod 2 mission was a resounding success for the Soviet space program, with Leonov becoming the first person ever to leave a spacecraft and conduct an extravehicular activity, or spacewalk. An exceptional work of art from one of space exploration’s foremost artists. Starting Bid $500
Flown on the final manned spaceflight to the Mir space station
2282. Sergei Zalyotin’s Soyuz TM-30 Flown Sokol Gloves.
Sergei Zalyotin’s pair of flown Sokol KV-2 space suit gloves worn aboard the Soyuz TM-30 spacecraft as part of Mir EO-28, the final manned spaceflight to the Mir space station, both signed in black felt tip by Zalyotin. The gloves are marked on the inner wrist with a serial number, “ГП-7A-11Б-0970426,” and printed in blue with Zalyotin’s initials in Cyrillic, “ЗСВ.” The gloves feature blue anodized aluminum wrist couplings designed to attach the suit, with each coupling marked on the interior: “ЛЕВDЕ, D48D136” and “ПРАВDЕ, D48D147.” In overall fine condition. Accompanied by a copy of a letter from Zalyotin affirming the flown status of these gloves, in addition to two color photos of Zalyotin, who has signed both in felt tip. Extremely attractive and highly displayable flown cosmonaut gloves, seldom offered as a pair.. Starting Bid $500
80 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Tsiolkovsky’s “The Purpose of Starflying,” carried into orbit on Soyuz 4
2283. Soyuz 4/5 Flown Tsiolkovsky Brochure Signed by Vladimir Shatalov. First edition of Konstantin Tsiolkovsky’s paperback pamphlet entitled
“The Purpose of Starflying,” published in Kaluga in 1929, 5 x 7, 40 pages, carried into space on Soyuz-4, signed and flight-certified on the front cover in blue ballpoint by the mission commander, “Onboard the spacecraft Soyuz-4, 15 January 1969, V. Shatalov.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Walter Michael Hopferwieser. Launched on January 14, 1969, Soyuz 4 performed the first successful docking of Soyuz spacecraft when it connected with Soyuz 5 on January 16th. A unique and very early flown piece from the Russian space program. Starting Bid $300
“My life in Space is very interesting and busy”—written on board the ISS
2284. Anton Shkaplerov ISS/CRS-6 Flown Autograph Letter Signed. ALS signed “Anton,” one page, 8.25 x 11.75, March 21, 2015. Letter to fellow cosmonaut Oleg Artemyev, written while on board the International Space Station for Expedition 43, in full: “My life in Space is very interesting and busy. Unfortunately one cargoship ‘Progress’ was crashed. We lost food, clothing and provision. Now we continue to work on board. We have enough water, oxygen and clothing on the Space station.” The letter was returned to Earth on Dragon CRS-6. In very good to fine condition, with scattered light creasing. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Starting Bid $200
2285. Soyuz MS-10 Flown Cover Signed by 12 ISS Astronauts. Flown cover carried on Soyuz MS-10 and Soyuz MS-12, signed in ink by Oleg Kononenko, David Saint-Jacques, Anne McClain, Aleksey Ovchinin, Nick Hague, Christina Koch, Aleksandr Skvortsov, Luca Parmitano, Andrew Morgan, Oleg Skripochka, Jessica Meir, and Hazza Al Mansouri. During the failed Soyuz MS-10 flight, this cover was held inside the orbital module which crashed to Earth from the height of 50 kilometers without a parachute—hence the wrinkles in the corners. In very good condition, with overall somewhat heavy creasing. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Walter Michael Hopferwiser. A desirable piece of flown ‘crash mail,’ signed by a dozen members of ISS expeditions. Starting Bid $200 www.RRAuction.com | 81
soviet/ russian hardware 2287. Russian ZSH-6 LP High Altitude Helmet. Circa 1980s Soviet ZSH-6 LP high-altitude pilot and cosmonaut helmet, as worn by Mig-25/Mig-31 pilots at altitudes over 70,000 feet and by cosmonauts during training. Includes the padded green communications liner—the Soviet counterpart to America’s ‘Snoopy cap’—with built-in microphone and headset. The white outer helmet is electrically heated and has an airtight sealed faceplate and shell. The green tube provides oxygen to the pilot, and the electrical cable is used for communications and power. The helmet has a metal neck ring used to connect directly to the pressure suit, ensuring an airtight seal. If the helmet or suit were to become depressurized at high altitude, the pilot would rapidly lose consciousness. Includes its original ‘Passport’ documentation, which states that this helmet was made in 1985 and was designed to be used for up to eight years. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
space shuttle 2288. Approach and Landing Tests Training Used Checklist Signed by Fred Haise.
2289. Jeff Hoffman’s Flown Toiletries. Jeff Hoff-
Ring-bound NASA checklist entitled “System Reference Book,” used in training for the Approach and Landing Tests of the the prototype Space Shuttle Enterprise, signed on the front cover in blue ballpoint, “Used in training during ALT—Fred Haise, Enterprise CDR.” The 54-page checklist, which measures 8 x 6 and is dated between August and May 1977, is divided by tabs for sections 4 through 7—Fault Messages, BTU Input/Output Assignments, EPDC, and Status Checks. In fine condition, with expected signs of use. Starting Bid $200
man’s collection of flown toiletries carried on his various Space Shuttle flights, including STS-46 and the STS-61 Hubble rescue mission, including: Speed Stick deodorant; two wooden-handled brushes; two tubes of aloe vera gel; a stick of Ivory soap; No-Rinse shampoo; a tube of Crest toothpaste; a metal Swedish Crown comb; a tube of Chapstick; three toothbrushes sealed in plastic, one with a sticky note reading: “Jeff, This is from your last flight, Vicki”; and fingernail clippers. All articles bear affixed swatches of blue Velcro for securing them within the spacecraft. In overall very good to fine condition. Provenance: From the personal collection of Jeff Hoffman. Starting Bid $200
2290. Jeff Hoffman’s STS-35 Crew-signed Training-used Cargo Systems Manual. Jeff Hoffman’s “Cargo Systems Manual: ASTRO-1” manual used in training
for STS-35, 8.5 x 11, published by NASA’s Mission Operations Directorate on August 10, 1990, signed on the front cover in black felt tip by the complete crew—Vance Brand, Guy Gardner, Jeff Hoffman, Mike Lounge, Bob Parker, Sam Durrance, and Ron Parise—and inscribed at the top in an unknown hand, “To Jeff—Warmest personal regards from your fellow crewmembers!” The three-page booklet contains a change order, title page, and fold-out schematic entitled “Command and Data Routing Overview (ASTRO Configuration).” In fine condition. ASTRO-1, the mission’s primary payload, was a Spacelab observatory consisting of three telescopes: Hopkins Ultraviolet Telescope (HUT); Wisconsin Ultraviolet PhotoPolarimeter Experiment (WUPPE); and Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (UIT), mounted on the Instrument Pointing System (IPS). The full suite of telescopes obtained 231 observations of 130 celestial objects over a combined span of 143 hours.
Provenance: From the personal collection of Jeff Hoffman. Starting Bid $200
82 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2291. Jeff Hoffman’s STS-61 Flown Comfort Gloves. Jeff Hoffman’s
flown EVA comfort gloves carried on STS-61 and worn during three spacewalks for the repair of the Hubble Space Telescope, sealed in their original cleaning/ maintenance plastic with NASA-JSC labels, identifying them as “Item Number: 0106-84906-04[R][HF]” and “Item Number: 0106-8490603[L][HF],” and “S/N: 144.” Affixed to the opposite side is a note to Hoffman by NASA employee Bill Maas, in full: “Jeff, These were your flight comfort gloves. We had to downgrade them to Class III. I tried to get quality to let us mark them as inconspicuous as possible. It has been a pleasure working with you. Good luck, Bill Maas.” In fine condition. Comfort gloves were available for optional use with the Shuttle Extra-vehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) space suit gloves, and were designed to provide a comfortable layer of fabric against the hands and to aid in wicking perspiration.
2292. Jeff Hoffman’s STS-75 Flown Ascent Checklist. Jeff Hoff-
man’s flown ring-bound “Ascent Checklist” carried on the Space Shuttle Columbia for STS-75, 6 x 8, featuring translucent plastic covers with affixed blue Velcro swatches, and a white Beta cloth spine marked in block letters, “Ascent C/L.” The checklist is separated into tabbed sections allowing quick access by the crew, with primary contents including: “Prelaunch Procedures,” “Ascent Procedures,” “Post OMS 1 Burn Procedures,” “OMS 2 Burn Cards,” “Post OMS 2 Burn Procedures,” “AOA PADS,” “OMS Targets, Comm Coverage, Land Sites,” and “Weather Pads.” In fine condition. Provenance: From the personal collection of Jeff Hoffman, and accompanied by a signed portrait and letter of provenance. Starting Bid $300
Provenance: From the personal collection of Jeff Hoffman, and accompanied by a signed portrait and letter of provenance. Starting Bid $300
2293. Jeff Hoffman’s STS-75 Flown Tether. Jeff Hoffman’s long segment of
flown electrically conductive tether carried on STS-46 and STS-75 as part of the Tethered Satellite System (TSS) experiment, featuring an insulated copper conductor wrapped in a white braided Nomex sheath. In fine condition. The Tethered Satellite System was first flown on STS-46 as TSS-1: during deployment, the satellite reached a distance of only 860 feet from the orbiter instead of the planned 20.7 kilometers due to a jammed tether line. When the tether could not be freed over the course of several days, TSS operations were curtailed, and the satellite was stowed for return to Earth. It was reflown as the primary payload of STS-75, under the name TSS-1R, but the tether broke after being deployed 19 kilometers. After the mission, the Tethered Satellite Project cut up segments of the tether and gave them out as mementos of the mission. As Hoffman flew on both STS-46 and STS-75, he received this fairly long piece of the tether. Provenance: From the personal collection of Jeff Hoffman, and accompanied by a signed portrait and letter of provenance. Starting Bid $500 www.RRAuction.com | 83
2294. NASA Group 8 Signed Covers. Uncommon pair of postal covers, both 7.5 x 3.75, both postmarked at the Kennedy Space Center on April 12, 1981, the launch date of the STS-1 mission, with the covers featuring ink or felt tip signatures of the 35 astronaut candidates selected as part of NASA group eight in 1978, including: Ron McNair (who signs both covers), Ellison Onizuka, Judith Resnik, Sally Ride, Rhea Seddon, Dan Brandenstein, Michael Coats, Dick Covey, John Creighton, Robert Gibson, Frederick D. Gregory, Frederick Hauck, Jon McBride, Dick Scobee, Brewster Shaw, Loren Shriver, David Walker, Donald Williams, Guion Bluford, James Buchli, John Fabian, Anna Fisher, Dale Gardner, S. David Griggs, Terry Hart, Steven Hawley, Jeffrey Hoffman, Shannon Lucid, Richard Mullane, Steven Nagel, George Nelson, Robert Stewart, Kathryn D. Sullivan, Norman Thagard, and James van Hoften. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2295. Shuttle Crew Signed Flown ISS Covers. Three covers flown on the
International Space Station, postmarked on board the ISS on the 50th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin’s first manned spaceflight, each signed in ink by members of notable Space Shuttle crews: STS-35 Columbia (Vance Brand, Guy Gardner, Jeff Hoffman, Mike Lounge, Ron Parise, and Sam Durrance), STS-37 Atlantis (Steven Nagel, Ken Cameron, Linda Godwin, Jerry L. Ross, and Jay Apt), and STS-39 Discovery (Mike Coats, L. Blaine Hammond, Gregory J. Harbaugh (ins), Rick Hieb, Don McMonagle, Lacy Veach, and Guion S. Bluford). In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2296. Space Shuttle Curry Sauce with Veggies. Space Shuttle
spacefood pack labeled “Curry Sauce w/Vegetables, FT55-14 16034,” 4.5˝ x 8˝ x .5˝, with a small circular piece of Velcro on the front, and a bilingual label in English and Russian on the back. Unlike the unappetizing freeze-dried food products of earlier space programs that required rehydration, this type of thermostabilized food pouch just needs to be heated before being eaten. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
84 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2297. Space Shuttle Lot of (5) Body Bath Pouch Assemblies. Group of
five Space Shuttle-era “No Rinse Body Bath Pouch” assemblies, 9.5˝ x 4˝, with sealed nozzles to top, small Velcro swatches to either side, and identical instruction and parts labels: “Add 6 OZ Hot Water, 2 OZ Cold Water, P/N SED32103194–303.” Two assemblies include the pouch tubing. In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2298. Space Shuttle Main Landing Gear Uplock Actuator Engineering Prototype. Engineering pro-
totype of the Space Shuttle Landing Gear Uplock Actuator, measuring approximately 16 x 10 x 11, bearing a Bertea Corporation tag on the center cylinder, reading: “Code Ident No. 82106, Mfg Date 10-76, Part No. 246200-1001, Serial No. 82106-004, Actuator, Uplock, Main Landing Gear, Hyd.” In fine condition. This actuator supports pre-flight retraction of the Space Shuttle main landing gear prior to launch, and release of the landing gear just prior to touch-down. An appealing piece of essential Shuttle hardware. Starting Bid $200
2299. Space Shuttle Tofu with Hoisin Sauce. Space
Shuttle spacefood pack labeled “Tofu w/ Hoisin Sauce, 1311 BLY418,” 4.5˝ x 8˝ x .5˝, with a small circular piece of Velcro on the back. Unlike the unappetizing freeze-dried food products of earlier space programs that required rehydration, this type of thermostabilized food pouch just needs to be heated before being eaten. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2301. STS-115 Flown Broccoli Au Gratin.
Space Shuttle spacefood pack labeled “Broccoli Au Gratin, 3oz hot water * 5-10min, 5219 BOS903,” 4.5˝ x 5.75˝ x 1˝, presumed flown aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis on STS-115 to the International Space Station. The label bears an orange dot, and the back of the pack has three affixed Velcro dots. In fine condition. Accompanied by a letter of provenance from noted space collector Larry McGlynn, a member of the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation’s Board of Trustees. In part: “This food package labeled Broccoli Au Gratin was flown on STS-115. The food is contained in a rehydratable package with an injection receptor located at the top of the container to be used to inject hot or cold water into the food. The orange dot was for a member of the crew which was color coded on the menu and the astronaut’s food tray. This flown food package was given to me as a gift by members of the STS-115 flight crew.” Starting Bid $200
2300. STS-135 Flown Cover Signed by 7 Astronauts. Flown cover
carried on the Space Shuttle Atlantis during the last mission of the Shuttle program, STS-135, signed on board the International Space Station by seven astronauts, including Sandra Magnus, Mike Fossum, Andrei Borisenko, Ron Garan, Sergey Volkov, and others. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2302. STS-60: Ken Reightler’s Flown Shirt. Ken
Reightler’s greenand-blue Land’s End long-sleeve rugby shirt worn and flown during the STS–60 mission, size large, embroidered on the left breast with white thread, “Discovery, STS–60.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a signed and flightcertified certificate of authenticity from Reightler, in part: “This green, with blue pin stripes Lands’ End Rugby shirt… flew in space aboard Space Shuttle Discovery…during the STS–60 mission…This shirt has been in my possession since the flight up until the time I donated it to the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation.” Starting Bid $100
www.RRAuction.com | 85
Used to time experiments on the Space Shuttle Discovery
2303. STS-29 Flown Heuer Stopwatch. Flown Heuer stopwatch carried on STS-29 by Mission Specialist Robert C. Springer, featuring dark blue hands on a white face with black Arabic numerals in five-second increments. The black back of the stopwatch is hand-etched “1006.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity signed by Springer, in part: “This stop watch from my personal collection was flown on STS-29. Several of the experiments I operated required precise time constraints and I chose to use my personal stop watch to manage the critical events.” Among the experiments conducted on STS-29 were a test on rats to determine whether the environmental effects of spaceflight inhibit bone healing, an experiment to determine the effects of spaceflight on fertilized chicken embryos, a test for a potential spacecraft cooling system, a protein crystal growth experiment, and a life sciences experiment designed to show the effects of microgravity on root development in plants. An interesting flown timepiece carried on a significant Shuttle mission. Starting Bid $500
86 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Carried on STS-65 for 236 Earth orbits— a whopping 6.1 million miles!
2304. STS-65 Flown Custom-Made Watch. Custom-
made watch carried into space on the STS-65 mission, featuring the mission insignia on the face, green hands, and a black leather bracelet. Includes a display stand with engraved plaque: “STS-65 Mission Emblem watch was flown aboard ‘Columbia’ from July 8–23, 1994, completed 236 orbits and flew 6.1 million miles around the Earth.” The watch has no serial number or maker indicated. In fine condition, with expected wear to the watchband from use. Accompanied by a letter of provenance fully signed by the STS-65 crew—Robert Cabana, James Halsell, Rick Hieb, Carl Walz, Leroy Chiao, Donald Thomas, and Chiaki Mukai—in part: “This STS-65 watch was flown aboard the United States Space Shuttle Columbia July 8, 1994, through July 23, 1994. Launching from the Kennedy Space Center, Florida, Columbia and its crew of seven astronauts completed 236 orbits of the Earth, traveling 6.1 million miles before landing back on Runway 33 at the Kennedy Space Center, Florida.” Also includes an official color NASA lithograph depicting the STS65 crew and an informational brochure about the International Microgravity Laboratory (IML-2), which hosted experiments in life sciences and microgravity on STS-65. Starting Bid $1000
www.RRAuction.com | 87
2305. Space Shuttle 1000 Series EVA Glove TMG. Early
1000 series Space Shuttle glove TMG (Thermal Micrometeoroid Garment), with two ILC-Dover tags on the interior, reading: “Item: TMG, Glove Assembly, Part No. 0106-80538-09, Serial No. 038, Size 03 (C), Code ID 74897, MFG 2/80” and “Item: Glove Assembly, Left, Part No. 0106-10006, Size 03 (C), Spec. 0106-10006, CEI No. 106, Code Ident. 74897, Contract No. NAS 9-15150.” With just some minor staining to the exterior, this glove appears unused—it is a fine example of the earliest Shuttle glove. Designed and manufactured by ILC Dover to support the earlier Space Shuttle mission EVAs, the TMG is the outermost layer of the space suit glove and provides insulation, radiation shielding, and protection from micrometeorites that could otherwise puncture the suit. Starting Bid $200
2306. Space Shuttle 4000 Series EMU Glove Restraint Assembly. Rare right-handed 4000
series Space Shuttle glove restraint layer, with ILCDover parts tag sewn on the back of the wrist: “Item: Restraint Assembly, Glove 4000, Part No. 010688936-10, Serial No. 283, Size ZSA, Code ID 74897, MFG 1/00.” In very fine condition. Accompanied by two original bags, one with an affixed NASA-JSC cleaning label and one with affixed parts labels, denoting the piece as Class I flight hardware with a total acquisition cost of $7,500. Starting Bid $300
2307. Space Shuttle Bail Out Mask. Space Shuttle–era emergency oxygen mask made by the Sierra Engineering Co., designed to connect to a temporary oxygen supply in the event of smoke or noxious gas inside the spacecraft, with a label applied to the filter on the front: “P/N SDD11100275301, S/N 1049.” The oxygen valve, tubing, and connectors all remain intact. In fine condition. Starting Bid $200
88 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2308. Space Shuttle Fecal/Emesis Collection Bags. Sealed package of unused fecal/emesis, folded to an overall size of 7˝ x 6.75˝ x 1.75˝, marked on the packaging: “Part Name - Fecal Emesis Collection Bag, G. E. Part No. 47A232804P1, Contract No. M9J7XSG-485039D, Buyers Control No. MC282-0069-002, Ident. Code 60852, Mfr’r. Flurolon Corp., Package Lot No. A-25, Mfr’r. Date 1/84.” The topmost bag is marked: “Buyer’s Control No. MC282-0069-0002, G.E. P/N 47A232804P1, FCC-S/N 256.” In fine condition. The bags were used for crew member-generated biological waste storage during the multi-day shuttle mission. Starting Bid $200
2309. Space Shuttle Hardware Lot of (10). Collection of ten pieces of Space Shuttle hardware, including: two Space Shuttle Cryogenic Relief Valves; a sealed package of unused fecal/emesis bags; two pieces of Space Shuttle thermal insulation; a light gray Space Shuttle valve panel; a Space Shuttle Electrical Interface Panel; a Space Shuttle Track Installer Reel Assembly; an early Space Shuttle dual check valve; and a Space Shuttle Radiation Detector HighFidelity Mock-Up. In overall very good to fine condition. Starting Bid $200
2310. Space Shuttle Series 4000 TMG EVA Glove. Desirable right-handed 4000 series Space Shuttle glove TMG (Thermal Micrometeoroid Garment), with an ILC-Dover tag on the interior, reading: “Item: TMG, Glove Assembly, Part No. 0106-88975-02, Serial No. 183, Size 2MC, Code ID. 74897, MFG 3/94.” The glove TMG appears unused, and features a gray palm with blue fingertips. In very fine condition. Accompanied by the plastic NASA bag with affixed “Overdue” label. The TMG is the outermost layer of the spacesuit and provides insulation, radiation shielding, and protection from micrometeorites that could otherwise puncture the suit. Starting Bid $300
www.RRAuction.com | 89
shuttle hardware 2311. Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Booster Recovery Beacon. Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Booster (SRB) recovery beacon, measuring 4.25˝ x 4˝ x 3.5˝, housed in a white case, with a Micro Electronics, Inc. label, reading: “Light, Flashing, Model 209-B-3, Serial 1000012, Part Number 10400-0162-802…Contract Number: NAS8-32000…Date of Manufacture: March 1983.” In overall fine condition. Starting Bid $200
Space Shuttle camera designed for observation of Halley’s Comet
2312. Space Shuttle Wide Field Camera and Lens Hood. Impressive dual-lens Space Shuttle Wide Field Cam-
era (WFC) with lens hood, the main white canister camera body measuring 16˝ in diameter and 25˝ tall, set upon a 21˝ x 25˝ three-legged base, and the lightweight lens hood measuring 17˝ x 22.5˝ x 21˝. The white canister’s body bears a Teledyne tag, reading: “WFC Canister Assembly, Part No. F5-10042-1, Contr. No. NAS8-32712, For NASA-MSFC.” The canister top and cover are removable, revealing two Nikon Nikkor lenses (50mm f/1:1.4 and 85mm f/1:1.4), as well as blue Automax film magazines and internal electronics. The lens hood has a red metal cover stenciled “Non-Flight Item,” and the interior is ribbed with flat black panels to absorb sunlight and reduce lens flare. In fine condition. Produced for the Astro-1 payload manifested for a March 1986 flight, the Space Shuttle Wide Field Camera (WFC) was designed to make detailed studies of Halley’s Comet, which was nearing its perihelion passage and approaching maximum brightness in the spring of 1986. The Astro-1 instruments were designed, manufactured, tested, and ready for orbiter installation by January 1986, when the Challenger disaster occurred and further Space Shuttle flights temporarily suspended. Because Halley’s Comet was no longer in position for detailed observation, the Wide Field Camera was removed from the payload in the spring of 1987, and the Astro-1 did not fly until STS-35 at the end of 1990. A superb and interesting piece of NASA photographic history. Starting Bid $500 90 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
viking 2313. JPL Mars Viking Omni Antenna Mockup. JPL Mars Viking Omni Antenna
Mockup, measuring 19.25˝ long and 4˝ in diameter, comprising a hollow metal tube (sealed at one end) with two circular mounting brackets. In very good to fine condition, with scattered scuffs and surface scratches. The Viking’s omnidirectional low-gain antenna was used to used to send and receive transmissions while the lander was near Earth; a high-gain dish antenna was used as it journeyed further into space. Starting Bid $200
Hinge and latch for the Viking’s solar arrays 2314. JPL Mars Viking Orbiter Solar Array Hinge and Latch. Two components for the Mars Viking Orbiter’s solar arrays: one trapezoidal outboard hinge with a wired port for a motion sensor switch, measuring approximately 27˝ x 10.25˝ x 3˝, marked on the underside, “10040069-1, S/N 005”; and one rectangular inboard latch, measuring 22˝ x 8.25˝ x 4.5˝, marked on the underside, “100400682, S/N 007.” In overall fine condition. Accompanied by an original JPL storage request receipt for the inboard latch, and by photocopied JPL inspection report paperwork related to the Viking’s hinge and latch assemblies. Any Viking hardware is extremely rare, making this a great opportunity for collectors. Starting Bid $300
Extremely rare developmental Mars Viking support strut 2315. JPL Mars Viking Orbiter Support Strut and Hardware. Developmental ground
test Mars Viking Orbiter support strut with thermal coupler, measuring 39˝ long, marked on the end of one bracket, “P/N 10050985-1, S/N 015,” on the body, “10040055-103, S/N 008,” and on the other bracket, “10050982-1, S/N 010.” Complete with its original cloth transport bag. Additionally includes several pieces of hardware associated with Viking, including: a thermal pile vibration fixture, a Damon crystal filter, seven wire connector terminals, a lower bridge bracket, several pieces of test and witness glass, a leak check fixture, and a filter cementing fixture. Most of these parts are individually held in plastic cases and include related labels or paperwork. In fine condition. Any Viking hardware is extremely rare and highly sought-after. Starting Bid $300
www.RRAuction.com | 91
miscellany 2316. Allis-Chalmers Radiation Cooled Fuel Cell Module Assembly. Allis-Chalmers Radiation Cooled Fuel Cell Module Assembly developed
for unmanned NRO and USAF Spacecraft, weighing 50 lbs and measuring approximately 17.5˝ x 12˝ x 10.5˝ in its handling frame, with identification plate. The design requirement for this fuel cell assembly was simplicity—it eliminated an external radiator, blower, and fans, instead using louvers to regulate temperature. This novel design was covered by an Allis-Chalmers patent. The 28 cells in each module combine to operate between 22 volts and 30 volts, and are wired in series for redundancy in case one fails. In very good to fine condition. This piece will be crated and shipped from California; the buyer is responsible for all associated costs. Starting Bid $200
2317. Final Frontier Design EVA Space Suit Glove Prototype. Desirable EVA space suit glove prototype made by Final Frontier Design (FFD) in 2012 for testing with FFD space suits. The glove features an orange wrist joint and palm with black fingers and fingertips, and a Final Frontier Design tag sewn on the glove back side. Mounted on a thick metal plate for display. In fine condition, with expected wear.
With this design prototype, FFD approved the glove design with gimbal ring wrist joint and original flat patterns for single restraint bladder technology; it was designed for display only, and the Thermal Micrometeoroid Garment (TMG) is not included. Final Frontier Design was founded after Ted Southern and Nikolay Moiseev took home a $100,000 second place prize in NASA’s 2009 Astronaut Glove Challenge, with a pressurized glove design that outperformed NASA’s Phase VI gloves in a variety of tests. Their company has since gone on to win several NASA contracts for various space suit and life support system elements, and has developed low-cost EVA (Extravehicular Activity) and LEA (Launch, Entry, & Abort) space suits. Moiseev one day plans to put one of his FFD suits on Mars. Starting Bid $300
2318 . NASA Kern DKM2-AE Theodolite Surveyor. Robust
and high-precision Swiss-made Kern DKM2-AE theodolite surveying instrument with NASA property tags on the side, serial no. 292424, complete with its matching metal case and its thickly-padded bright orange Kern travel case. In very fine condition. Though not a flight item, this would have been used by NASA for ground surveying of things like camera positions. This is a 1-second instrument and cost about $10,000 in 1970. Starting Bid $200
92 |
July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2319. Collection of (97) NASA Lithographs and Photos. Collection of 97 space images, consisting mostly of official
NASA lithographs from throughout its history. Highlights include: two official color glossy red-numbered NASA photos of the Apollo 12 Saturn V rocket at Launch Complex 39; an official glossy photo of the nominal mission profile for STS-2; and ten glossy photos of the lunar surface, evidently taken by Ranger 7 in 1964, all affixed to scrapbook pages. The remainder of the lot is comprised mostly of lithographs from the Space Shuttle program, as well as thirteen Mariner 9 lithographs (all with irregularly trimmed edges, affixed to scrapbook pages) and a few Gemini and Apollo lithographs. In very good condition, with diagonal stripes of toning to reverse of most, trimmed edges to many, and many of the earlier photos and lithographs affixed to double-sided scrapbook pages. Starting Bid $200
space art 2320. Ron Woods Original Painting.
2321. Ron Woods Original Painting of Neil Armstrong. Ter-
Original painting of spacesuit technician Troy Stewart, Jr., making suit checks to the back of a NASA pilot, accomplished in watercolor on a sheet of 14 x 10.25 archival paper by NASA suit technician-turned-artist Ron Woods. Signed and inscribed on the reverse in pencil, “Troy, Jr., Ron Woods, 2019.” In very good to fine condition, with two areas of paint loss to front and rear of astronaut.
rific original painting of moonwalker Neil Armstrong being prepped by spacesuit technician Troy Stewart, Sr., on the morning of the historic Apollo 11 mission, accomplished in watercolor on a sheet of 14 x 10.25 archival paper by NASA suit technician-turned-artist Ron Woods. Signed on the reverse in pencil, “Troy, Sr., Ron Woods, 2019.” In fine condition. A wonderful rendering of the Apollo 11 Commander, his visage filled with anticipation as his suit is prepared at the Kennedy Space Center’s Manned Spacecraft Operations Building in the early hours of July 16, 1969.
During the Apollo program, Ron Woods worked for ILC as a suit technician performing suit maintenance, interface testing with the Command Module, Lunar Module, and Lunar Rover vehicles, and insertion of astronauts in Command and Lunar modules for training. He suited crew members for Apollo 8, 11, 15, all Skylab missions, and Apollo-Soyuz. He also supported the first two Space Shuttle missions as a suit technician at KSC and three additional missions at primary and back-up landing sites. Starting Bid $200
During the Apollo program, Ron Woods worked for ILC as a suit technician performing suit maintenance, interface testing with the Command Module, Lunar Module, and Lunar Rover vehicles, and insertion of astronauts in Command and Lunar modules for training. He suited crew members for Apollo 8, 11, 15, all Skylab missions, and Apollo-Soyuz. He also supported the first two Space Shuttle missions as a suit technician at KSC and three additional missions at primary and back-up landing sites. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 93
2031. Isaac Asimov Group of (9) Signed Typescripts. Starting Bid $200
2032. George Washington Carver Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2033. Thomas Edison Typed Letter Signed
2034. Michael Faraday Autograph Letter Signed. Starting Bid $200
2035. Leslie Groves Handwritten Draft Letters Starting Bid $200
2036. Hermann von Helmholtz Document Signed Starting Bid $200
2037. Rene Laennec Document Signed
2038. Wilhelm Rontgen Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2039. Antonio Scarpa Autograph Document Signed Starting Bid $200
2040. Isaac Asimov Signed Typescript
2042. Paul Broca Autograph Note Signed Starting Bid $200
2043. Augustin Pyramus de Candolle Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
94 | July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
2041. Mavis Batey Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2044. Benjamin Dearborn: Lightning Printed Letter Starting Bid $200
2045. Thomas Edison Original Photograph Starting Bid $200
2046. Thomas Edison Original Photograph Starting Bid $200
2048. Ambrose Fleming Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2051. I. M. Levitt Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
2047. John Ericsson Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2049. Otto Hahn Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2052. Justus Liebig Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2054. Hudson Maxim Typed Manuscript Signed Starting Bid $200
2050. Jack Kilby Signed Sketch Starting Bid $200
2053. Joseph Lister Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2055. George Porter Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2056. Carl Sagan Signed Booklet Starting Bid $200
Detailed description & condition statements are available at www.RRAuction.com or (800) 937-3880 | 95
2057. Harlow Shapley Autograph Letters Signed (3) Starting Bid $100
2059. Clyde W. Tombaugh, James W. Christy, and Glenn T. Seaborg Signed Typescript Starting Bid $200
2058. William Shockley Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
2060. Transistor: Shockley, Bardeen, and Brattain Starting Bid $200
2061. Thomas J. Watson Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2088. Alien Concept Artwork Starting Bid $200
2089. Apollo 13 Alignment Optical Telescope Movie Prop Starting Bid $300
2090. Back to the Future Signed DeLorean Time Machine Mode Starting Bid $200
2091. From the Earth to the Moon Screener Video Box Set Starting Bid $200
2092. Star Trek: Gene Roddenberry Typed Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
2093. Apple 1984 ‘Test Drive a Macintosh’ Dealer Poster Starting Bid $300
2094. Apple 1984 Mac X-Ray Launch Poster
2095. Apple 1984 Macintosh 128K Poster Starting Bid $200
96 | July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Starting Bid $200
2096. Apple 1998 iMac Launch Poster.
2097. Apple 2002 iMac G4 Poster
2098. Apple Computer 1987 ‘Computer Capers’ Poster Starting Bid $200
2099. Apple Computer Group of (3) Promotional Posters. Starting Bid $200
2100. Apple Employee Award Group Lot
2101. Apple III Group Lot
2102. Apple Music 2003 Poster
2103. Apple: Wozniak and Wayne Group Lot
2104. Power Computing (2) Posters from 1997 Macworld Expo Starting Bid $200
2109. Burroughs 220 Print Drum
2110. Prototype Drum Memory Fence Tracking System Starting Bid $200
2129. Gold-Clad AMD ALU Chip
2130. Fujitsu 128K Bubble Memory Cartridge Starting Bid $200
2131. Norden PDP-11 Military Computer Core Memory Starting Bid $200
2132. RCA 1800 COSMAC Microprocessor
2133. ROLM NOVA Military Computer Core Memory Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Detailed description & condition statements are available at www.RRAuction.com or (800) 937-3880 | 97
2134. Wang 8-Pin Ballistic Matrix Print Head Starting Bid $200
2135. 1930s Carbon Button Broadcast Microphone Starting Bid $200
2138. Pair of Cold War-era Russina Tank Commander Helmets Starting Bid $200
2140. WWII BC-611 American Walkie Talkie Starting Bid $200
2148. Balloon Mail Handwritten Letter Starting Bid $200
98 | July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2136. Everest Z5R Pinwheel Calculator Starting Bid $200
2137. Hemmi No. 275 Slide Rule Starting Bid $200
2139. WWII American TBY-4 Two-Way Radio Transmitter/Receiver Starting Bid $250
2146. Charles Lindbergh Document Signed Starting Bid $200
2147. Aviation: National Charity
2149. Steve Fossett Signed Cover
2150. French Aeroplanes Catalog
Starting Bid $200
Air Pageant Program and Ticket Stub Starting Bid $100
Starting Bid $200
2151. L’Aviation et les Aviateurs Booklet Starting Bid $200
2152. Port Aviation and Bournemouth Programs Starting Bid $200
2153. Wright Brothers Aviation Journal
2154. Wright Brothers French Booklet
2155. Wright Brothers French Journal
2156. Wright Brothers German Booklet
2157. Wright Brothers German Booklet
2158. Wright Brothers German Booklet
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
2159. Wright Brothers Group of (7) Photographs Starting Bid $200
2161. Wilbur Wright Photograph Starting Bid $200
2162. Wilbur Wright Photograph Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
2160. Wilbur and Katherine Wright Group of (3) Photographs Starting Bid $200
2163. Wilbur Wright Photograph Starting Bid $200
Detailed description & condition statements are available at www.RRAuction.com or (800) 937-3880 | 99
2164. Wilbur Wright Photograph Starting Bid $200
2165. Wilbur Wright Photograph Starting Bid $200
2168. Orville Wright’s French Booklet Starting Bid $200
2178. Alan Shepard Hand-Drawn Technical Diagram Starting Bid $200
2278. ASTP Demo Chicken and Rice Spoon-Bowl Starting Bid $200
2166. Wilbur Wright Photograph Starting Bid $200
2167. Wilbur Wright Print Starting Bid $200
2169. Orville Wright’s German Booklet Starting Bid $200
2267. Apollo 11 Lot of NASA Publications
2268. Apollo 13 Model Signed by Fred Haise
2269. Apollo 13 Signed Lithograph
2279. Andrey Borissenko ISS/
2280. Cosmonauts Set of (6) Signed KNIGA Covers Starting Bid $200
2286. Soyuz TMA-17 Flown Cover Signed by 28 ISS Astronauts Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
STS-134 Flown Autograph Letter Signed Starting Bid $200
100 | July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Starting Bid $300
Starting Bid $200
2322. NASA Group 8 Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
2323. Apollo Guidance Computer Ground Test Interface Panel Starting Bid $200
2325. Rockets and Missiles Original Vintage NASA and Press Photograph Archive Starting Bid $200
2324. Hubble Telescope Flown Insulation Starting Bid $200
2326. Gordon Cooper Group of (5) Signed Items Starting Bid $200
2327. Gordon Cooper Signed Photograph Starting Bid $100
2328. John Glenn Typed Letter Signed
2329. Mercury Astronauts Signed Photograph
2330. X-15 Pilots Signed Cover
2331. Michael Collins Signed Photograph
2332. Gemini 5 CrewSigned Recovery Ship Cover Starting Bid $200
2333. Gemini 5 Crew-Signed Tracking Station Cover
2334. Gemini 7 Signed Cover
2335. Project Gemini Set of (10) Flown Heatshield Covers Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $100
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Detailed description & condition statements are available at www.RRAuction.com or (800) 937-3880 | 101
2336. Elliot See Signature
2337. Elliot See Typed Letter Signed and Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
2338. Apollo A7LB Space Suit Helmet Disconnect Ring Starting Bid $200
2339. Apollo Command Module
2340. Apollo CM Hatch Assist Compressed Nitrogen Bottle Starting Bid $200
2341. Lunar Receiving Lab Wire Cable
2342. Apollo Launch and Recovery Covers
2343. Apollo Patch (12) Group Lot
2344. Apollo Program Charts
2345. Apollo Recovery Operations Team Badge Starting Bid $200
2346. NASA Early Apollo and Lunar Orbiter 1964–1966 Publica-
2347. Walt Cunningham Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
2348. Wally Schirra and Walt Cunningham Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
102 | July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Starting Bid $200
tions Starting Bid $200
2350. Apollo 9 Atlantic Recovery Force Certificate Starting Bid $200
Block 1 and Block 2 Mock-Up Components Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
2351. Jim McDivitt Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
2352. Buzz Aldrin Signed Books
2353. Buzz Aldrin Signed Photograph
2354. Buzz Aldrin Signed Photograph
2355. Buzz Aldrin Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
2356. Apollo 11 ‘Manned Flight Awareness’ Medallion Starting Bid $200
2357. Apollo 11 20th Anniversary Poster Starting Bid $200
2358. Apollo 11 Geologic Map of Lunar Landing Site Starting Bid $200
2359. Apollo 11 Kapton Foil
2360. Michael Collins Signed Photograph
2361. Michael Collins Signed Photograph
2362. Charlie Duke Signed Photograph
2363. Alan Bean Signed Photograph
2364. Alan Bean Signed Photograph
2365. Charles Conrad Signed Baseball
2366. Charles Conrad Signed Photograph
2367. Charles Conrad Signed Photograph
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $100
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Detailed description & condition statements are available at www.RRAuction.com or (800) 937-3880 | 103
2368. Charles Conrad Signed Photograph
2369. Apollo 13 Group of (4) NASA Publications Starting Bid $200
2370. Apollo 13 Launch Guide Signed by Fred Haise Starting Bid $200
2371. Apollo 13 Signed Cover Starting Bid $200
2372. Apollo Lunar Module Booklet Signed by Fred Haise Starting Bid $200
2373. Fred Haise Signed Photograph
2374. Fred Haise Signed Photograph
2375. Fred Haise Signed Photographs
2376. Fred Haise Signed Poster
2377. Apollo 14 Commemorative Franklin Mint Medal Starting Bid $100
2378. Edgar Mitchell Signed Photograph
2379. Edgar Mitchell Signed Photograph
2380. Edgar Mitchell Signed Photograph
2381. Apollo 15 Flown Lunar Module Kapton Foil Starting Bid $200
2382. Apollo 15 NASA Publications
2383. Apollo 15 Signed Cover
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
104 | July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $100
Starting Bid $200
2384. Jim Irwin Signed Photograph
2385. Jim Irwin Signed Photograph
2386. Dave Scott Signed Photographs
2387. Charlie Duke Signed Photograph
2388. John Young Signed Photograph
2389. John Young Signed Photograph
2390. John Young’s Apollo 16
2391. Apollo 17 Signed Cover
2392. Gene Cernan Signed Baseball
2393. Gene Cernan Signed Photograph
2394. Harrison Schmitt Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
Letter Signed Starting Bid $100
2396. NASA Personnel Coveralls
2397. Skylab Introduction Manual
2398. Tom Stafford Signed Beta Patch
2399. Alexei Leonov and Vladimir Shatalov Signed Print Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Beta Cloth Signed by Charlie Duke Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
2395. Charles A. Berry Signed Photograph and Autograph
Detailed description & condition statements are available at www.RRAuction.com or (800) 937-3880 | 105
2400. Alexei Leonov Signed Photograph
2401. Alexei Leonov Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
2402. Fred Haise and Gordon Fullerton Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
2404. NASA Group 9 Signed Cover
2405. Space Shuttle Launch Vehicle Permits Starting Bid $200
2406. Space Shuttle Manned Flight Awareness Poster Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
Starting Bid $200
2408. AIT Solar Array Starting Bid $200
2410. Chinese Space Food Souvenir Package Starting Bid $100
2411. Navy Recovery Patches Starting Bid $200
106 | July 16, 2020 | SCIENCE & TECH & SPACE EXPLORATION
2403. NASA Group 10 Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
2407. Space Shuttle: McCandless, Fullerton, and Allen Signed Photograph Starting Bid $200
2409. Apollo and Space Shuttle Manuals Starting Bid $200
2412. Spectrolab Satellite Solar Panel Starting Bid $200
Meteorites
THE MAJESTY AND MYSTERY OF THE COSMOS RAIN ON EARTH
Meteorites are extraterrestrial materials that have fallen from space. Most were once part of large asteroids. All known meteorites are thought to have originated in our own solar system, but most of the specific origin points are unknown. The exceptions are the HED (howardite, eucrite, diogenite) meteorites from asteroid Vesta, along with a comparatively tiny number that were once part of the Moon or Mars. Among the rarest materials in existence, meteorites have made epic journeys through space—250,000,000 miles is an average distance from the asteroid belt to Earth—plummeted through our atmosphere riding a flaming fireball, hit the surface of our planet sometimes forming craters, and were later found, examined, and described. Their scarcity makes diamonds and emeralds appear almost ordinary in comparison. An oft-quoted statistic posits that the weight of all meteorites ever found equal less than one year’s industrial output of gold. And while terrestrial gems and minerals frequently have great beauty and value, nothing can quite compare to the allure of holding an authentic piece of another world. Meteoritics—the science of meteorites—differs from its cousin paleontology in that new specimens are not named in honor of, or by, their discoverers. Meteorites take their names from the town or geographical feature nearest to the point where they fell, and naming and classification are exacting processes. All specimens offered in this catalog (except the unofficial “Campo Las Palmas,” “Ghadamis,” “NWA 5950,” and “NWA XXX”) have been approved by a universally-recognized committee of academic experts and published in the definitive scientific database—the Meteoritical Bulletin. Rare, valuable, and sometimes very small in size, provenance is everything for meteorites, and each lot in our Summer 2020 auction has been examined and authenticated by Geoffrey Notkin, an internationally-recognized authority on meteorites. The CEO of Aerolite Meteorites Inc.—a world leader in space rock recovery, sales, and education—Notkin starred in three seasons of the hit television series, “Meteorite Men” for Discovery Networks. He is the President of the National Space Society, a TEDx speaker, the author of four books and hundreds of articles on meteorites, science, adventure travel, and the arts. Several specimens in this catalog come directly from Notkin’s personal collection [SEE LOTS 2425, 2438, 2463, 2464].
Visit www.RRAuction.com for more detailed meteorite descriptions and images. www.RRAuction.com | 107
The HED Meteorites: from Vesta with Lava Vesta is the largest and brightest asteroid in the asteroid belt and the second largest body overall, with an average diameter of about 525 km (326 miles). A couple of billion years ago two massive impacts ejected part of Vesta’s mass and some of that material landed here on Earth as HED (howardite, eucrite, and diogenite) meteorites. The meteorites that traveled here from Vesta demonstrate that the solar system is, or was, active— geological processes have been at work out there, shaping worlds. And we have the evidence of it right here, as Vesta’s intriguing HED meteorites.
2413. Northwest Africa (NWA) 8559 (Howardite) Meteorite. Howardite stone meteorite from Asteroid Vesta
Northwest Africa, found 2013. Complete laboratory-prepared slice, 71.49 grams. Often benefitting from cutting in the laboratory, Howardite interiors can be visually intriguing, and such is the case with NWA 8559. The mottled look of this prepared specimen clearly demonstrates it’s an amalgam of many different materials, some originating from within Vesta itself, with others assumed to have arrived from other far-off and unidentified asteroids. This howardite is a kaleidoscope of variegated space rocks merged into a single, speckled, and fascinating complete slice. Note the variety of shapes, sizes, and colors of its abundant extraterrestrial inclusions. Starting Bid $200
2414. Northwest Africa NWA 11342 (Diogenite) Meteorite. Diogenite stone meteorite from Asteroid Vesta
Northwest Africa, found 2013. Complete laboratory-prepared slice, 19.9 grams. Perhaps one of the most fascinating rock types in existence, they are thought to be of plutonic origin— only a single stone of NWA 11342 was found in Morocco in 2017, and this complete laboratory-prepared slice was taken from it. Starting Bid $200
2415. Millbillillie (Euc) Meteorite. Eucrite stone meteorite from Asteroid Vesta Witnessed fall, October 1960, Western Australia. Complete fusion-crusted individual, 29.5 grams. Eucrites are achondrites (“without chondrules”) and are basalt—cooled lava from Vesta. Especially difficult to recover and identify in the field, they do not contain the large amounts of iron that are typically found in most other meteorite types. One of its most desirable characteristics is its remarkably black glossy fusion crust which, in some cases—such as this fine example—is so shiny it looks almost like sprayed-on enamel paint! Millbillillie is one of the few meteorites that displays such a shiny, glassy crust. Starting Bid $200
108 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
Iron Meteorites: Anvil of the Asteroids
Iron is an indicator for meteorites; most of them are rich in it, particularly iron meteorites which, typically, consist of more than 90% ferrous materials. When the average person thinks of what a meteorite looks like, the object he or she is imagining is most likely an iron. Iron meteorites come from large asteroids with molten cores that once orbited the sun between Mars and Jupiter. Extremely slow cooling of those cores, over many millions of years, allowed nickel-iron alloys to crystallize into fantastic geometric structures described as Widmanstätten Patterns. Like snowflakes, the pattern hidden within each iron is unique and an expert can often identify a particular meteorite just by its etch.
Gibeon: Watchmaker’s Choice
2416. Gibeon “Moon Boot” Meteorite. Iron, IVA. Namaland, Namibia, first known 1836. Superb individual with meteorite-
specific surface features and rare natural hole, 5.8 kg (12.75 lbs). Once a popular favorite among collectors, this essential iron meteorite has all but disappeared from the marketplace and superior examples such as this generate a great deal of interest. Combine the appeal of its Widmanstätten etch pattern with its exceptional stability and resistance to rusting and you have relentless demand from jewelers and watchmakers. In rare cases, complete individuals are recovered, and this lot is one such example. Impressive in weight, this gorgeous iron meteorite shows abundant regmaglypts (thumbprints) on its surface—indicators of ablation during its furious flight through Earth’s atmosphere. It is presented in as-found condition with attractive dark red and brown desert patina. In one photo it seems to resemble an owl; in another an elongated boot, hence its name. Please note the field number “5.8,” likely painted by the finder at the time of its discovery in the Namib Desert. Field numbers are usually seen to add a modest amount of uniqueness, value, and collectibility to a meteorite, but this number could easily be removed if so desired. Starting Bid $500
www.RRAuction.com | 109
Canyon Diablo: The First Crater
2417. Canyon Diablo Meteorite. Iron meteorite IAB-MG, Coconino County, Arizona, USA, first known 1891. Sculptural
specimen with good surface features, 12.2 kg (26.75 lbs). Some collectors prefer meteorites that show their natural gunmetal color and, to that end, this specimen has been gently cleaned to remove much of the oxidation, although some of it’s desert patina remains. Note the large, natural spherical scoop that was likely formed by the erosion of a soft carbon nodule. This hefty specimen displays numerous good surface features and stands up naturally in several orientations, making it an attractive display piece from the world’s most celebrated impact site. Starting Bid $5000
110 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
2418. Canyon Diablo Meteorite. Iron meteorite IAB-MG, Coconino County, Arizona, USA, first known 1891. Sculptural
specimen with good surface features, 12.2 kg (26.75 lbs). Some collectors prefer meteorites that show their natural gunmetal color and, to that end, this specimen has been gently cleaned to remove much of the oxidation, although some of it’s desert patina remains. Note the large, natural spherical scoop that was likely formed by the erosion of a soft carbon nodule. This hefty specimen displays numerous good surface features and stands up naturally in several orientations, making it an attractive display piece from the world’s most celebrated impact site. Starting Bid $500
Toluca: The Foundation of Meteorite Science? 2419. Toluca Meteorite Slice. Iron, IAB-sLL. Toluca, Mexico, first known 1776. Complete etched slice, 331.6 grams. Toluca played a vital role in modern meteorite science, as the primary destination for seminal meteoriticist H.H. Nininger’s first epic meteorite hunt in 1929. Sales and trades from Nininger’s finds and purchases helped establish his importance and, later, the American Meteorite Laboratory and his meteorite museum near Meteor Crater. One could argue that Toluca—which provided both seed money and material for his extraordinary career—was the foundation of modern meteorite science. This complete polished and etched slice displays a particularly exotic and geometric Widmanstätten pattern and was beautifully finished by an expert preparator. Starting Bid $200 www.RRAuction.com | 111
Muonionalusta Watch: Telling Time with the Ice Age Meteorite
2420. Saint-Aubin Meteorite Full Slice. Iron meteorite, IIIAB Champagne-Ardenne, France, found 1968. Complete laboratory-prepared etched slice, 89.6 grams. Saint-Aubin is a rare European iron meteorite that was first found in France in 1968 by farmers plowing a field. It is an ungrouped octahedrite, meaning it does not fit into any existing iron meteorite class. Months of laboratory work were required to prepare the mass from which this slice was taken. It has not just been cut, polished, and etched, but also meticulously stabilized by an expert in meteorite preservation and preparation. Note the exceptionally appealing, geometric Widmanstätten pattern and the dark, angular inclusions, present in this specimen. Starting Bid $200
2421. Watch With Muonionalusta Meteorite. Iron meteorite, IVA. Arctic Circle, near Muonionalusta Island, Sweden, first known 1906. Wristwatch with meteorite face. A slice of this Arctic Circle meteorite has been fashioned into the face for this fully-functioning wrist watch. Meteorites found in remote and nearly inaccessible locales seem to hold a special allure for hunters and collectors alike. Muonionalusta is no exception. The fall site lies north of the Arctic Circle in Sweden and the meteorites found there are so ancient their fall pre-dates at least one ice age. Starting Bid $200
Campo del Cielo: An International and Interplanetarial History Campo del Cielo, one of Earth’s oldest-known meteorites, translates in English to “Field of Heaven” or “Field of the Sky” and is historically important, first recorded in 1576 by Spanish explorers under Captain de Miraval in Chaco province, Argentina. The impact, believed to have occurred approximately 5,000 years ago, created one of the larger known strewnfields on Earth, and perhaps the single biggest crater field. It is also one of the largest impacts from which actual meteorite specimens have been recovered: the heaviest single mass from the fall, known as “El Chaco,” weighs 37 tons and, regarded as a national treasure, remains in Argentina. Numerous additional masses have been found over the years and Campo del Cielo has one of the longest and most interesting terrestrial histories of any iron meteorite. 2423. Campo del Cielo Meteorite (With Hole). Iron meteorite, IAB.
Chaco province, Argentina, first known 1576. “The Tiger’s Paw.” Substantial complete individual with appealing surface features and very rare natural hole weighing 5,205 grams (11.5 pounds). Meteorites that land upon the Earth’s surface without shattering into shard-like fragments (known as shrapnel) are described as complete individuals and are often regarded by collectors as being more desirable. Individuals can frequently be recognized by undulating surface indentations caused by ablation in Earth’s atmosphere and known scientifically as regmaglypts (or “thumbprints”). Occasionally, softer internal inclusions, such as graphite, may melt out of a meteorite during flight, forming a natural hole. Such features are extremely rare, and are probably seen in less than 1 in 1,000 meteorite specimens. Once part of the molten core of a long-vanished asteroid the gnarled, naturally-hammered surface of this appealing Campo del Cielo exhibits all of these desirable features and, when viewed from the side, is reminiscent of a tiger’s paw. Starting Bid $200 112 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
2424. Campo Del Cielo (Recrystalized). Iron meteorite, IAB. First described 1576, Argentina. Full slice with laboratoryprepared surface and inclusions, 8,331 grams (18 1/3 pounds). The interiors of some iron meteorites tell a story that is markedly different from their exteriors, and this hefty Campo del Cielo lab-prepared section is just such an example. This miraculous lattice-like arrangement, known as a Widmanstätten Pattern, can be very beautiful and is generally visible only after iron meteorites have been carefully prepared in the laboratory. The kamacite crystals revealed by this process are measured and the average bandwidth is used to subdivide iron meteorites into a number of structural classes. An iron with very narrow bands, less than 1mm, is known as a “fine octahedrite,” while one with a very wide band would be described as a “coarse octahedrite.” Campo del Cielo is a coarse octahedrite and its silvery interlocking bands, known as lamellae, can very clearly be seen in this example. Note the black silicate-graphite-troilite inclusions. This hefty slice has been meticulously stabilized by an expert laboratory prep artist and should be around to be enjoyed for at least another 5,000 years. Starting Bid $500 2425. Campo del Cielo “Show and Tell” Meteorite [Personal Collection of Geoffrey Notkin]. Iron mete-
orite, IAB. First described 1576, Argentina, 1,196.5 grams (2 2/3 pounds). Aerolite Meteorite’s CEO and “Meteorite Men” star, Geoffrey Notkin, is also an internationally-published science writer and in-demand public speaker, who’s presented at Kennedy Space Center, The Royal Ontario Museum, Lowell Observatory, and numerous other notable venues and events and is also a TEDx speaker (Institut le Rosey). One of Notkin’s signature acts at his talks is to pass a meteorite around through the audience in order to give attendees the experience of holding a genuine space rock. Such a specimen must be a “wow” piece—large enough to impress audience members, and also exhibit the striking visual features that are unique to meteorites. This beautifully-regmaglypted Campo del Cielo is just such a piece. Notkin personally selected this example because of its outstanding surface features and shape, which resembles a dinosaur footprint or possibly a maple leaf. If you happened to attend one of Notkin’s popular presentations during the past few years, you may already have seen this fine meteorite. From the personal collection of a well-known meteorite specialist and host of “TV’s Meteorite Men.” Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 113
Campo Del Cielo: The Broken Heart of a Forgotten Asteroid
2426.Campo del Cielo Meteorite on Custom Stand. Iron meteorite, IAB. First described 1576, Argentina. Massive asteroid fragment on custom armature stand with meteorite,weighing 48.2 kg (106 pounds). Nothing describes the grandeur of space quite like 100+ pounds of it crashing into our little blue-green planet Earth. Large asteroids with molten cores produced the raw material for iron meteorites, following collisions within the asteroid belt. As such, you could say this mammoth space rock is the broken heart of an ancient asteroid. This one landed in South America an estimated 5,000 years ago.
Meteorites weighing 100-plus pounds are rare indeed and represent just a fraction of 1% of space rocks recovered by humans in all of history. Most specimens of this size reside permanently in museum exhibits or major private collections and it is quite unusual to see an authentic iron meteorite of this magnitude offered for sale publicly. In addition to its significant mass and interesting shape—somewhat reminiscent of an asteroid from which it is believed to have originated—this highly impressive and substantial Campo del Cielo meteorite comes with its own custom-built steel armature stand which was constructed specially for its display. This is a serious piece that remains a testament both to the determination of meteorite hunters who excavated it from the ground where it fell thousands of years ago, and the longevity of the last remains of a long-vanished minor planet. Starting Bid $1000
114 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
Wolf Creek: The Sacred Space Rock 2428. Wolf Creek Meteorite. Iron meteorite. IIIAB. Western Australia, first recognized 1947. Complete weathered individual, 391.8 grams. With an estimated age of about 120,000 years, Wolf Creek is the secondoldest crater to have produced meteorites, and being at the far end of the scale demonstrating how long meteorites can physically survive on Earth, it has particular scientific interest. A must-have for those who collect iron meteorites associated with craters, or historic meteorites, but specimens are difficult to obtain. Given the crater’s spiritual, religious, and historic importance, it is now illegal to remove meteorite material from the site or, in fact, to export any meteorites from Australia without written government approval (Note that this specimen was legally exported with an official permit). Starting Bid $250
2429. Campo Las Palmas Meteorite [Unofficial]. Iron meteorite, unclassified. Formosa, Argentina,
found 2006. Complete regmaglypted individual with remnant fusion crust, 751.1 grams. The Las Palmas individuals are very well preserved, with multiple, fine, small regmaglypts, and most uncleaned pieces display clear remnant fusion crust. Aerolite Meteorites CEO Geoffrey Notkin went on record saying that, in his professional opinion and based on the find data and surface characteristics, “Las Palmas” is a different and distinct meteorite from Campo del Cielo, but no official new classification has been forthcoming to date. It is, however, without any doubt, a genuine iron meteorite and this specimen, an attractive, elongated complete and uncleaned individual displays multiple fine regmaglypts, a pleasing sculptural shape, and patches of blue-grey fusion crust. Starting Bid $200
Carbonaceous Chondrites: Messengers from the Beginning of Time Carbonaceous chondrites are a rare and scientifically important group of stone meteorites. They carry within them the last traces—sometimes in the form of tiny diamonds—of extremely ancient and long-vanished suns or planets that pre-dated our own solar system by billions of years. As such, carbonaceous chondrite meteorites contain the oldest materials that any human has ever encountered. Many carbonaceous chondrites contain significant amounts of water, carbon, organic compounds and in some cases, extraterrestrial amino acids. This has led to scientific speculation that—during our planet’s distant past—they may have brought from space the materials that were needed for life to evolve here on Earth. www.RRAuction.com | 115
2430. Dar Al Gani (DAG) 521 Meteorite. Carbonaceous chon-
drite, CV3. Al Jufrah, Libya, found 1997. End cut with polished face and large CAI, 115.9 grams. Dar al Gani (DAG) 521 is a carbonaceous chondrite that belongs to the CV3 group. The “V” is a reference to Vigarano, a meteorite that fell in Italy in 1910 and is the first known example of this group. CV3s show large chondrules but little alteration, meaning they have survived, largely unchanged, since the birth of our solar system. An early hot desert find, DAG 521 consisted of a single stone weighing 1,567 grams which was recovered in 1997 on a limestone plateau in Libya, known as Dar al Gani. This rare CV3 is seldom available to collectors and we have not seen a specimen offered for sale in many years. Note the remnant fusion crust on the exterior and the white calcium-aluminum inclusion (CAI), and multiple large chondrules. CAIs are believed to be the oldest substances in the solar system. Starting Bid $200
2431. Allende Meteorite Slice and Individual (Lot of 2). Carbonaceous chondrite, CV3. Witnessed fall,
February 8, Chihuahua, Mexico. This lot comprises two items: a complete individual showing grey-blue fusion crust, 36.8 grams, and a complete slice, 3.5 grams. A rare witnessed fall CV3 carbonaceous chondrite, Allende’s nighttime fireball was witnessed by hundreds of people in rural Mexico on February 8, 1969 and numerous specimens were picked up by locals the next morning. Often described as “the most studied meteorite in history,” Allende is one of the most fascinating and desirable space rocks available to collectors. It is rich in carbon and the calcium-rich inclusions (CAIs) are about 4.6 billion years old. Allende also contains microscopic diamonds which are believed to be the last remnants of an exploding sun that predates our own solar system by billions of years! As such, at an estimated 12 billion years, they are by far the oldest things any human has ever touched. Starting Bid $200
116 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
2432. Northwest Africa (NWA) 5950 Meteorite [Provisional]. Carbonaceous chondrite, CV3. Algeria, found
2009. Polished end cut with large and colorful chondrules, 155.1 grams. Its dark grey matrix is peppered with abundant and densely-packed large chondrules, many of them orange in color. The majority of recovered NWA 5950 specimens were on the small side and unsuitable for preparing into slices. Most of this material has long-since disappeared from the collectors’ market and this unusually large end cut is notable both for its size and the prominent and variegated chondrules displayed on its polished face. The unprepared exterior shows remnant fusion crust, a desert patina, and noticeable protruding chondrules. While listed in the official database, NWA 5950 was not published in the “Meteoritical Bulletin,” so its status is listed as “provisional.” Starting Bid $200
Moon Rocks: Lunar Meteorites
If you look at the surface of the Moon through a telescope, you will immediately notice that its surface is partially covered by a multitude of craters. Some of those may be volcanic in origin, but many or most are meteorite craters formed when meteorites from elsewhere—likely chunks of the asteroid belt—Crashed into the Moon. Sufficient force of impact can accelerate fragments of Moon rock away from its surface, in essence throwing them into space. Some of those pieces are later snared by Earth’s gravitational influence and fall here as meteorites. Lunar meteorites, or lunaites, are very different in composition from the majority of other space rocks. Their uniqueness helps identify them as being lunar in origin. It is directly because of the Apollo missions that scientists are able to identify lunar meteorites. When the composition of a lunar meteorite found on Earth is analyzed in the laboratory, it is seen to be markedly similar to specimens brought back to Earth by the Apollo astronauts. More remarkable than that, even, is the fact that some lunar meteorites can be paired with a particular part of our nearest neighbor, meaning we can tell not just that they came from the Moon, but also, to some degree, which part of the Moon.
In financial terms, lunar specimens are among the most valuable and sought-after of meteorites, often selling on the collectors’ market for as much as $1,000 per gram, making them worth many times their weight in gold. We are pleased to present eight moon rock lots, representing three different lunar meteorites: NWA 11303, NWA 11788, and NWA 5000. Meteorites are typically named after the nearest town to their point of discovery. “NWA” is an abbreviation for Northwest Africa and indicates that these specimens were found in a remote desert environment, away from towns or known geographical features.
www.RRAuction.com | 117
Northwest Africa (NWA) 11303 NWA 11303 is one the most visually appealing lunar meteorites available to collectors, and the favorite of our resident meteorite expert, Geoffrey Notkin. Laboratory-polished slices reveal a kaleidoscope of clasts of varying sizes and colors, clearly demonstrating the multi-faceted composition of this lunar breccia. As noted above, it is expected to see little or no iron and lunar meteorites, but NWA 11303 contains visible metallic inclusions. This extraterrestrial nickel-iron was likely brought to the Moon on board large asteroid fragments, suggesting NWA 11303 is a composite of indigenous lunar material combined with meteorite fragments that could have originated hundreds of millions of miles away. The laboratory noted the extreme hardness of this rock, which lent itself to an exceptional polish.
2433 Northwest Africa (NWA) 11303 Lunar Meteorite Full Slice. Lunar
meteorite, feldspathic breccia Northwest Africa, found 2017. Lunar meteorite (feldspathic breccia). Complete laboratoryprepared slice, 83.9 grams. Exceptional and superb, palmsized complete slice. This specimen was taken from the center of a large mass and is the most significant lunar meteorite slice in this auction. Expertly prepared in the laboratory with a custom-built saw, this full slice was meticulously polished to bring out its variegated multi-hued interior, chock full of extraterrestrial fragments that originated in ancient and far-away places. With presentation case and embossed certificate of authenticity. Starting Bid $2000
118 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
2434. Northwest Africa (NWA) 11303 Lunar Meteorite Full Slice. Lunar meteorite, feldspathic
breccia Northwest Africa, found 2017. Complete laboratory-prepared slice, 20.2 grams. Complete lunar meteorite slice, exactingly prepared in the laboratory and polished to perfection on a diamond lap. Note the pleasing contrast of abundant white and grey clasts suspended in a darker matrix. Careful examination will reveal multiple small blebs of extraterrestrial nickel-iron. Starting Bid $300
2435. Northwest Africa (NWA) 11303 Lunar Meteorite Part Slice. Lunar me-
teorite, feldspathic breccia Northwest Africa, found 2017. Laboratory-prepared part slice, 5.6 grams. Polished part slice showing the desirable high-contrast brecciation for which NWA 11303 is known and admired. Starting Bid $200
2436. Northwest Africa (NWA) 11788 Lunar Meteorite. Lunar meteorite, feldspathic breccia Northwest Africa, found 2017. Fragment, 27.6 grams. Although originating in the same place (the Moon) and found in the same year (2017), note the obvious differences between NWA 11788 and NWA 11303, indicating that our lunar neighbor was an active world, producing varied materials over the millenia .Found in Mali and examined and classified by the Institute of Meteoritics at UNM, Albuquerque, NWA 11788 is darker in color, with green and grey hues and is a breccia consisting of fragments of various lunar minerals including plagioclase, pyroxene, and olivine that have been compressed together over time. Starting Bid $300
www.RRAuction.com | 119
2437. Northwest Africa (NWA) 11303 Lunar Meteorite. Lunar meteorite, feldspathic breccia Northwest Africa, found
2017. Exceptional whole specimen, 363.7 grams. This world-class specimen would be the envy of many museums and significant university collections. A whole stone in as-found condition, clearly showing light and dark patches typical of NWA 11303. It is this brecciated mixture that produces the alluring, high-contrast slices seen in other lots in this auction. A large, visually appealing, and highly impressive example of our nearest celestial neighbor, with impeccable provenance from Aerolite Meteorites, Inc., and examined and classified by the Department of Earth at Space Sciences at the University of Washington, Seattle. Starting Bid $5000
120 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
2438. Northwest Africa (NWA) 11788 Lunar Meteorite [Personal Collection of Geoffrey Notkin].
Lunar meteorite, feldspathic breccia Northwest Africa, found 2017. Whole stone, 146.8 grams. Excellent and impressive whole lunar rock specimen. Note its intriguing mottled exterior and green/grey/black hues. Because of their extremely high value, lunar meteorites are often cut into smaller pieces in the laboratory. Due, however, to this specimen’s appealing shape and color, it was decided to keep it in complete and as-found condition. The term “museum-worthy” is bandied about for all sorts of things, and we use it sparingly, but it is warranted for this large, very fine, and attention-getting piece of the Moon. Many prominent museum collections do not have a comparable example. At the time of writing, in all of scientific literature, there are close to 64,000 known and recognized different meteorites. Of those, a little over 400 are lunar meteorites. Of those, many were found by scientific expedition to Antarctica (and are, therefore, unavailable to collectors), or have a very small total known weight, or TKW, sometimes just a few grams. As such, the opportunity to acquire an attractive lunar meteorite of this size, with this sort of provenance, is notable. Starting Bid $1500
www.RRAuction.com | 121
Northwest Africa (NWA) 5000 The lunar meteorite NWA 5000 was recovered in the Western Sahara in July of 2007. A significant find, NWA 5000 is a lunar highlands monomict gabbroic breccia. It was widely studied and mentioned in numerous academic papers. Polished slices show a particularly appealing contrast between light and dark areas.
2439. Northwest Africa (NWA) 5000 Lunar Meteorite Part Slice “The Eclipse.” Lunar meteorite, lunar highlands
monomict gabbroic breccia, Northwest Africa, found 2007. Part slice, “The Eclipse,” 36.80 grams (57mm x 42mm x 8mm). Adam Hupé, the original owner of the main mass of this meteorite, remarked that he observed a lunar eclipse on the evening of February 20th 2008 from Titlow Beach, Washington, through the two naturally occurring holes in this specimen, hence its unofficial name, “The Eclipse.” This slice has an outside surface with rare translucent fusion crust (the four edges and one surface are polished leaving the second surface unfinished). Accompanied by a metal identification tag, a color identification card, portfolio, custom fitted Pelican case for added safety and security and a certificate of authenticity and other paperwork from the Von Hupé Planetary Collection.Starting Bid $1000
2440. Northwest Africa (NWA) 5000 Lunar Meteorite Part Slice “The Monolith.” Lunar meteorite, lunar high-
lands monomict gabbroic breccia, Northwest Africa, found 2007. Parallel cut and highly polished partial slice, “The Monolith,” 52.80 grams (67mm x 38mm x 8mm). Lunar meteorite part slice personally prepared by Adam Hupé. He considered it to represent one of the most feature-rich portions of NWA 5000. It has been polished to highlight the meteorite’s contrast and was inspired by the film “2001” during preparation, hence the specimen’s unofficial name. This lot includes a metal identification tag, a color identification card, portfolio, custom fitted Pelican case for added safety and security and a certificate of authenticity and other paperwork from the Von Hupé Planetary Collection. Starting Bid $1000
122 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
Mars: The Red Planet Lands on Earth It may sound like science fiction, but it is proven science fact: We have authenticated pieces of Mars here on Earth and they were not brought back by any kind of spaceflight mission—robotic or otherwise. Perhaps it is, in the end, the real Mars that enthralls the most; the tangible Mars, the Mars that meteorite collectors can actually hold in their hands—the Mars that gives us documented meteorites from the Red Planet. We know that pieces of the Red Planet fell here because of the robot Viking spacecraft that landed on Mars in 1976. Six years after those landings, Drs. Johnson and Bogard were studying an unusual meteorite, here on Earth; a meteorite with a most unusual name—Elephant Moraine 79001, found in Antarctica in 1979. The two scientists made an astonishing discovery: tiny amounts of gas trapped within vugs in the 79001 meteorite were a close match to the thin atmosphere of Mars, as recorded by the Viking landers. The experiment was later repeated and confirmed by looking at several other Martian meteorites, clearly indicating their origin point. And what a fiery and furious life they’ve had! Blasted off the surface of their home planet by other meteorite impacts (the impactors likely being large asteroid fragments), they wandered in space until falling here. The improbable origin story of Martian meteorites makes them plenty rare—what are the chances that something would be blasted off a smaller planet that is, on average, 140 million miles away and then land on ours? Couple that with the fact that Martian meteorites are fragile; they are essentially cooled lava from another planet and contain little or no metal, meaning that—unlike most meteorites—metal detectors and magnets cannot be used to recover them, making them notoriously difficult to identify and recover in the field. 2441. Northwest Africa (NWA) 11228 Mars Meteorite. North-
west Africa, found 2015. Martian meteorite, shergottite, part slice, 1.6 grams. NWA 11288 is interesting for several reasons, apart from the obvious fact that it’s from Mars. Only a small amount of this material was recovered—about 407 grams as per the scientific literature. More importantly, this meteorite contains vugs (cavities) and it was just such features that allowed Drs. Johnson and Bogard to retrieve the tiniest “breath” of Martian air from inside their Antarctic meteorite named Elephant Moraine 79001. This part slice exhibits cream and green hues and “shows a high abundance of vesicular glasses,” indicative of its volcanic origin. Starting Bid $250
2442. Nakhla Martian Meteorite. Martian meteorite, nakhlite, witnessed fall June 28, 1911, Egypt. Fragment with fusion crust, 1.1 grams. Nakhla is that rarest of things. It is a Martian meteorite, yes, but it is also a witnessed fall Martian, of which only five exist in all of history. Combine the desirability of a witnessed fall with a rarity of a piece of Mars, add in the fact that Nakhla gave name to a meteorite class—the nakhlites—and throw in an apocryphal story of how it “vaporized” a dog on impact in early twentieth century Egypt, and you have one of the most entertaining space rock tales ever told. Witnessed fall Martians are infrequently made available and are coveted by researchers and collectors alike. This specimen shows some fusion crust on one face and was purchased in 1997 from noted meteorite expert, collector, and dealer Allan Lang of R.A. Langheinrich Meteorites and it has remained in a private collection until now. This lot is presented with its original Riker mount (display box) along with its R.A. Langheinrich Meteorites identification card, giving this rare and desirable 1911 find impeccable provenance. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 123
2443. Northwest Africa (NWA) 13227 Meteorite. Northwest Africa, found 2019 Martian meteorite, shergottite. Complete slice, 54.1 grams. This large, complete slice should amaze and delight any Red Planet afficionado, perhaps even Edgar Rice Burroughs himself. What would the creator of Barsoom thought if he’d been fortunate enough to hold such a sizable piece of it in his hand? Perhaps he would have been surprised to discover that the Red Planet is green on the inside, and made up in larger part of clinopyroxene and olivine. Northwest Africa 13227 was examined and classified by Dr. Anthony Irving of the Department of Earth and Space Sciences at the University of Washington, Seattle and it has been recognized as an authentic piece of Mars by academia. Its official details were published in the “Meteoritical Bulletin” this year (2020). Starting Bid $1000
124 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
Pallasites: The Jewels of Space Belonging to the stony-iron group, pallasites are perhaps the most alluring of all meteorites, and they are certainly of great interest to collectors and enthusiasts. Pallasites consist of a nickel-iron matrix rich in colorful olivine crystals. When olivine crystals are of sufficient purity and display an emerald-green color, they are known as the gemstone peridot. When cut and polished into thin slabs, the crystals in pallasites sometimes become translucent, giving them a remarkable otherworldly beauty. While micro-diamonds have been found in some meteorites, notably the carbonaceous chondrite Allende [SEE LOT 2431], pallasites are the only meteorites that contain gemstones easily visible to the naked eye. Believed to have formed at the core/mantle boundary of large asteroids, they are extremely rare, and as of the spring of 2020, out of nearly 64,000 officially recognized meteorites, there are only 130 known pallasites.
2444. Northwest Africa (NWA) 10023 Pallasite Meteorite. Pallasite meteorite, PMG-an. Moroccan-Algerian
border, found 2014. Laboratory-prepared complete etched translucent with extraterrestrial gems, 10.5 grams. Northwest Africa (NWA) 10023 was found near the Moroccan-Algerian border in 2014. Preparation in the laboratory revealed an extremely high olivine (peridot) density, and a high degree of translucency. Note the unusual juxtaposition of large, yellow and orange crystals beside tiny, darker crystals. There is very little of this attractive pallasite available, and this slice has been expertly cut for maximum translucency and visual appeal. While it is given a PMG designation for pallasite main group, it is also regarded as anomalous within that group. Starting Bid $200
2445. Seymchan Pallasite Meteorite. Pallasite meteorite, PMG. Magadan district, Russia, first known 1967. Polished part slice with extraterrestrial gems, 129.8 grams. Originally classified as an IIE iron meteorite, in the early 2000s new finds resulted in a rare classification change in scientific literature, revising Seymchan from iron to pallasite. Seymchan has an unusual structure: some areas display olivine-rich clusters, while others consist almost entirely of nickel-iron. This squarecut part slice is polished on one side and etched with nitol on the other, to reveal its shimmering Widmanstätten Pattern. Small, luminous, richly-colored olivine (peridot) crystals are suspended in a shiny nickel-iron matrix. Starting Bid $200
2446. Sericho Meteorite. Pallasite. Kenya, found 2016. Half individual with etched and polished face, 129.8 grams. While pallasites are typically considered to be composed approximately 50% olivine and 50% nickel-iron, Sericho has a particularly high crystal density, with estimates putting it at 70–80% olivine. This half stone with polished face—described as an “end cut” by collectors—is a remnant of a lost and subterranean active zone on an unknown but ancient asteroid. It has been exquisitely etched and polished by an expert in pallasite preparation to reveal abundant colorful crystals situated in a brilliant nickel-iron matrix. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 125
2447. Sericho Meteorite. Pallasite, Kenya, found 2016. Superb half individual with etched and polished face and abundant gemstones, 7.5 kg / 16.5 lbs. This magnificent large example of the Sericho pallasite is a treasure trove of extraterrestrial gemstones of rich and varying colors. This type of “end cut” is highly valued by many meteorite collectors as it presents an example of the best of both worlds, that being the inside and the outside of a meteorite in a single specimen. The exterior of this large piece shows a rich chocolate-ocher natural patina, acquired from its centuries-long residence in the deserts of Kenya. The interior has been cut in the lab with a special saw and them meticulously prepared to reveal an ocean of glittering space gems. Only a handful of skilled preparators have the expertise to carry out the type of exacting work that can reveal the inner beauty of a pallasite such as this. Sericho’s matrix is very hard—an amalgam of nickel, iron, and trace elements. The diamond-tipped saw employed to slice it must be resilient enough to work its way through such as mass, but also delicate and patient enough not to destroy the comparatively soft crystals within (peridot rates 6.5–7 on the hardness scale). Expert human craft and technique have here added value and beauty to some of the solar system’s finest work. Starting Bid $500
2448. Admire Meteorite Full Slice and Faceted Extraterrestrial Gemstone. Lot of two
items, which includes a pallasite meteorite, PMG. Admire, Kansas, first known 1881. Exquisite, olivine-rich laboratory-prepared complete slice, 420.0 grams, and an authentic palladot extraterrestrial gem-quality faceted stone, 0.17 carats. The Admire strewnfield has produced numerous impressive large masses and it was prominently featured on the television series “Meteorite Men.” Extraordinary discoveries were made at Admire during filming, which resulted in the location being referred to as “The Secret Alpha Site” as well as appearances in all three seasons of “Meteorite Men”—the only site to be so well represented [E101 “Pilot”; E201 “Alpha Gemstones”; E 307 “Homestead”]. Admire peridot space gems are one of the rarest materials in existence, and the resulting Admire peridot has been studied by meteoriticists and gemologists and officially recognized as a new gemstone: palladot. This beautiful and partially translucent full slice of the Admire pallasite was exactingly cut, polished, and stabilized by one of the foremost meteorite preparation experts in the world. In contrast with Brenham [LOT 2449], Admire presents a cornucopia of richly-colored, angular crystals of widely differing dimensions and forms. When held up to the light, it appears almost as an otherworldly piece of stained glass art. Both the slice and the faceted gemstone were taken from masses personally found by the Meteorite Men. Starting Bid $300 126 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
2449. Brenham Meteorite Full Slice. Pallasite meteorite, PMG-an. Kiowa County, Kansas, first found 1882. Magnificent large full slice with abundant gemstones, 2,220 grams. The inspiring story of the famous Brenham pallasite find in Kanas by Eliza Kimberly is well-known and visiting the Brenham strewnfield became something of a right of passage for would-be meteorite hunters. Surely sometime in the late 1990s, the area was declared “hunted out.” There was ostensibly nothing more to be found. Then, noted modern meteorite hunter, Steve Arnold, made worldwide headline news in 2005 when he unearthed an enormous 650-kg (1,430 lbs) oriented mass barely a stone’s throw from the site his predecessor’s discovery...but ten feet down in the ground. In 2008, Brenham once again came to prominence when it served as a main location in the pilot episode of Science Channel’s “Meteorite Men” in which Arnold and Notkin recovered two giant Brenham masses, with a combined weight of over 500 pounds. Several additional significant pieces were also found by Arnold and Notkin and this specimen originates from one of them. Now the area really has likely been hunted out, and it is quite possible that no other large Brenham masses now remain to be found, making this lot all the more desirable. Taken from one of Arnold’s personal finds, made circa 2006, this magnificent full slice is awash in coffee bean-shaped yellow and green extraterrestrial gemstones. Note the large, dark green, and ball-shaped olivine cluster, slightly off from the center. The shape of the slice—reminiscent of a letter “D”—indicates that the original whole mass was oriented, much like Arnold’s record-breaking 650-kg find. It maintained a fixed orientation towards Earth during flight, and the leading edge ablated into a gentle cone shape. So, even after cutting and preparation in the laboratory, the vestiges of this meteorite’s tumultuous flight through our atmosphere can still be seen written into its luminous shape. Starting Bid $2000
www.RRAuction.com | 127
Ataxite Meteorites The metallic element nickel, Ni on the periodic table, is important in the classification and identification of meteorites. While the unrefined form of nickel, nickel ore, is relatively abundant on Earth, nickel in its pure form is very rare. That’s not the case in iron meteorites. In fact, nickel is so consistently seen in iron meteorites that its presence is used as a definitive indicator in laboratory or assay tests: no nickel = no meteorite. The average component is about 7%.In the rare ataxite sub-group, however, nickel is present in much higher amounts. The taenite alloy in the Dronino ataxite (presented here) for example can contain more than 26% nickel. Ataxites typically do not display a Widmanstätten Pattern, or etch, when prepared in the lab, but slices do lend themselves to an alluring mirror-like finish, if sufficient care and expertise are employed. The Dronino strewnfield is situated close to the Russian town of Kasimov, founded in 1152. In this decidedly rural setting, the archaic pastime of wild mushroom hunting is still practiced. And so it was that the Dronino iron meteorite was accidentally found in the year 2000 by Oleg Gus’Kov, a man in search of earthbound fungi. Extensive work at the site by professional meteorite hunters followed and it was the site of a third season episode (“Dronino”) of TV’s award-winning series “Meteorite Men.” Due to the number of masses found, and their size and disposition, it has been suggested by expert hunters that Dronino is a buried impact site (soil crater), though no definitive evidence is currently on record.
2450. Dronino Meteorite Full Slice. Iron meteorite, ungrouped ataxite. Ryazan, near Kasimov, found 2000. Full slice, polished to mirror finish on both sides, 233 grams. Unlike most other iron and stony-iron meteorites, Dronino will not etch to form a geometric Widmanstätten Pattern. But, it does reveal a beautiful mirror-like finish, along with small amoeba-shaped inclusions, as seen here. No other known meteorite exhibits features quite like this. Starting Bid $200
2451. Dronino Meteorite. Iron meteorite, ungrouped
ataxite Ryazan, near Kasimov, found 2000. Sculptural fragment, 587 grams. This angular, sculptural fragment, perhaps reminiscent of a bear’s head or a warrior’s helmet, is covered on both sides by curving striations that could have been formed upon impact or by terrestrial weathering, or both. These angular, shard-like characteristics are somewhat reminiscent of Sikhote-Alin shrapnel [SEE LOT 2462] associated with the Siberian crater field. This perhaps lends credence to the theory that Dronino was a crater-forming event, though clear evidence of any such crater remains to be found, and the idea has not been officially accepted by academia. Starting Bid $200
128 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
2452. Dronino Meteorite. Iron meteorite, ungrouped ataxite. Ryazan, near Kasimov, found 2000. Large fragment, 12,142
gr (27 3/4 lbs). This hefty specimen is larger than the majority of pieces found in Russia’s Dronino strewnfield. Note the interesting surface features which appear to be torn or striated, likely by in-air explosion or terrestrial impact. This meteorite has been cleaned to remove surface soil and oxidation and stabilized (using non-invasive methods) to ensure longevity. Starting Bid $3000
www.RRAuction.com | 129
Northwest Africa A SCIENTIFIC TREASURE TROVE OF HOT DESERT SPACE ROCKS In the late 1990s the influx of Northwest African (NWA) meteorites meant many rare types that had been of limited availability to researchers—and scarcely available at all to collectors—could now be much more widely studied, and enjoyed by enthusiasts. When a new meteorite falls from the sky, or is found at some later date, it is traditionally named after the nearest town to the fall site. But there are comparatively few towns in the hot deserts of Northwest Africa and, as a result, a new naming and numbering system was adopted by academia, which included the acronym “NWA” for Northwest Africa, together with a number. Stone meteorites known as chondrites are the most abundant of any meteorite type and they are designated by letters and numbers: L or H for low or high iron and numbers from 3 to 7 indicating the condition of the chondrules they contain (the lower the number, the more pristine the chondrules). Chondrules are tiny, grain-like spheroids, often of widely-differing colors. They are believed to have formed in the solar nebula disk before the planets in our solar system and are never found in Earth rocks. They are survivors from the very beginning of our own solar system and, as such, are an amazing glimpse back through billions of years of astronomical time.
2453. NWA XXX: Unnamed Space Nomad Meteorite.
Stone meteorite, chondrite, unclassified. Northwest Africa, found circa 1999. Half stone with polished face and abundant chondrules, 607.5 gram. Official numbers and names are assigned only to meteorites that have gone through the complex and time-consuming process of classification by an accredited laboratory, and as resources are limited, finders/ owners sometimes elect not to as is the case with this attractive half stone. The exterior shows patches of black fusion crust, while the interior is rich in colorful chondrules of widely varying size and color. Notice also, the presence of xenolithic clasts—areas of chondrules that appear different in size, color, and density to the others. This intriguing phenomenon suggests that chondritic material from another source was forcibly combined with the original matrix, perhaps by the bombardment of other meteorites, or by asteroidal collision in the distant past. Starting Bid $200
130 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
2454. NWA XXX Sahara Stone Meteorite End Cut.
Northwest Africa (NWA) XXX unclassified stone meteorite with an exceptional laboratory-prepared face, weighing 1.582 kilograms and measuring approximately 115 mm x 105 mm x 35 mm. This hefty, highly attractive desert find shows a number of sought-after characteristics typical in stone meteorites. Its exterior displays deep and well formed regmaglypts, a feature that is unique to meteorites. While regmaglypts are frequently seen on the surface of iron meteorites, it is quite rare to see such well-formed examples on a stone. The exterior also exhibits remnant fusion and the large polished face reveals an interior rich in interesting features. A beautiful and striking display piece, full of wonder, and rich in archetypal features unique to space rocks. Accompanied by a specimen identification card from Aerolite Meteorites. Starting Bid $200
Northwest Africa (NWA) 869
The enigmatic Northwest Africa (NWA) 869 meteorite, found in the year 2000 is, geologically one of the more interesting stone meteorites available to collectors and has been described as a “meteorite science classroom in a single rock.” NWA 869 comes with a highly unusual classification, L 3–6, meaning it exhibits characteristics of different meteorite types (L3 through L6) within a single mass. It is almost as if dissimilar materials were crushed together into a new form. And, in fact, that may be exactly what happened. A regolith breccia, believed to be a mix of materials from many sources (meteorites/asteroids) that formed in space and later landed here on Earth, bringing its apocalyptic history with it. Meteorite NWA 869 may actually be a collection of many different meteorites in one!
2455. Northwest Africa (NWA) 869 Meteorite Half Stone. Stone meteorite, chondrite L3–6. Northwest Africa,
found 2000. Polished end cut with abundant chondrules, 391.8 grams. The finished face of this NWA 869 end cut displays numerous multi-billion-year-old chondrules—the building blocks of the rocky bodies of the solar system. The exterior of the masses show remnant fusion crust and a red figure “F” has been painted on the exterior and this is likely a field note, perhaps the initial of the original finder. Starting Bid $200
2456. Northwest Africa (NWA) 869 Meteorite. Stone meteorite, chondrite L3–6 Northwest Africa, found 2000. Whole stone with remnant fusion crust, 851.4 grams. As the hot desert meteorite NWA 869 routinely exhibits such fascinating interior features, many larger pieces, similar to this one, went to the lab to be cut into slices. But this whole stone was too attractive to give it over to the saw. The exterior shows abundant remnant fusion crust—a dark and blackened rind that is a testament to this space rock’s fiery journey through Earth’s atmosphere in the distant past. Some faint regmaglypts can also be seen on the surface. Starting Bid $250
2457. Dar el Kahal Meteorite. Stone meteorite, chondrite H5–6 Gao, Mali, found 2013. Complete polished slice, 328.8 grams. A rarity among Northwest African meteorites in that it has a name rather than a number, it shows multiple classifications within a single rock. Dar el Kahal is rich in nickel-iron and is also a breccia—essentially a rock made up of fragments of other rocks. This elegant full slice was taken from the center of a large mass and has been well prepared to reveal an abundance of extraterrestrial nickel-iron flecks. The shiny metal points within the dark matrix are reminiscent of the night sky. Both faces have been highly polished and one has been coated with a non-invasive protectorant. The sealed side displays the metallic inclusions with more clarity, while the uncoated side shows off more discernible chondrules, giving the opportunity to appreciate two different facets of the same specimen. Starting Bid $200 www.RRAuction.com | 131
2458. Libyan Desert Glass (With Hole). Impact glass, impactite. Found Libyan Desert Egypt, known since Egyptian era. Exceptional individual with rare natural hole, 66.0 grams. Libyan Desert Glass, a beautiful honey-colored impactite, was revered by the ancient Egyptians and worn by Pharaoh Tutankhamun. This beautiful piece shows several pseudo-regmaglypts and an extremely rare natural hole, likely caused by wind-born sand erosion in the desert. While not actually a meteorite, this lovely natural glass is the progeny of a large meteorite’s collision with our planet. Starting Bid $200
Witnessed Falls: Children of the Fireball
One might, understandably, be confused by the following question: “Is this meteorite a fall or a find?” A fall refers to a witnessed fall—when one or more meteorites were actually seen in flight by credible observers, and that term is often associated with fireballs. A find is a meteorite that has been discovered on the ground at a later date, but was not part of a witnessed event. Most witnessed falls are on the recent side—while finds have often been on Earth for long periods of time. Witnessed falls tend to have more financial value than finds and may even be documented by video footage, such as the Chelyabinsk fireball of 2013 [SEE LOTS 2465, 2466, 2467, and 2476]. Finds could conceivably be recovered anywhere, while recovered falls are often the result of ground searches following a documented fireball event. Witnessed falls are forever associated with a particular moment in time and space, a moment that was sometimes briefly shared by thousands of shocked, surprised, and amazed bystanders. Some meteorite collectors yearn for that rarest of things, a human artifact that was actually hit and damaged by a falling meteorite. Such items are exceedingly rare and have only been offered a few times in the history of meteorite collecting. We are honored to present two such coveted collectibles in this catalog [Chelyabinsk window and Zarcas panel SEE LOTS 2476 and 2474].
Gao-Guenie: The Rock with Two Names
2459. Gao-Guenie Meteorite. From the Robert Haag Collection.
Stone meteorite, chondrite H4. Witnessed fall, March 5, 1960, Gao, Burkina Faso. Superb fusion-crusted oriented stone, 1,350 grams. The famous Gao-Guenie meteorite is a witnessed fall from 1960 and it predates the rush of new finds made in Northwest Africa during the 1990s and 2000s. This collectible fall was originally named Gao, and initially believed to be different from the Guenie meteorite subsequently found in the same area. Researchers later determined that both meteorites were identical, thus the meteorite was renamed Gao-Guenie in 1998. In the 1990s, noted meteorite collector Robert Haag traveled to Burkina Faso and recovered numerous excellent examples of the Gao-Guenie meteorite. This outstanding specimen came from Haag’s collection and is likely one he recovered on that trip. Note the excellent fusion crust, multiple well-formed regmaglypts, and noticeable orientation. The vast majority of recovered Gao-Guenie stones are very small, perhaps 20 to 40 grams. It is unusual indeed to see a large stone of this quality. This fine example was acquired from Haag in the 1990s and has been in a private collection since that time. Starting Bid $300
132 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
Sikhote-Alin: Portent from Space
It has been rumored in both the film and meteorite worlds that the jagged asteroidal mass seen ominously approaching Earth in the action-packed science fiction blockbuster “Armageddon” was modelled on the SikhoteAlin meteorite fall of 1947. And it’s easy to imagine why that might be true. At some time in the distant past and, perhaps as much as 250,000,000 miles from Earth we posit that two asteroids collided. One mass, weighing about 70 tons, drifted through the cold spaces between planets for millions of years, ultimately freezing to minus 454 degrees Fahrenheit. Two years after the end of the Second World War, on a cold and snowy February evening, the dense mass crashed into the warm atmosphere of planet Earth, at 25,000 m.p.h. or more. The shockwave reportedly knocked over forest workers, as twisted shards of metal rained down among snowy pines. Melted, torn, and blasted, these fragments so resembled the remnants of wartime bombing that they were named shrapnel. Others landed as complete pieces, their surfaces rounded and sculpted by ablation into fantastical shapes, and covered or partially covered with scalloped indentations called regmaglypts or thumbprints. These sculpted pieces, known as individuals, present beautiful natural formations and comprise only about 20% of all recovered masses. The fall site was studied in detail and Russian academics excavated 180 of 200 identified impact pits and craters. In later years, amateur and professional meteorite hunters scoured the fall site using metal detectors while braving ticks, snakes, Siberian tigers (and, some claim, the Russian mob). But the site, now thoroughly hunted, is exhausted and no new meteorites from this—the world’s largest crater field—are to be found. And the extent of that crater field has often been cited as an example of why we must take steps to protect Earth from future asteroid impacts; had such an impact occurred in a densely-populated area, the effects would have been devastating. An easy favorite among experienced collectors, Sikhote-Alin is an extremely rare witnessed fall iron and many individuals display the classic characteristics of meteorites: regmaglypts, orientation, rollover lips, and even impact pits from in-flight collisions with other meteorites. These intriguing visitors from space are survivors from the greatest meteorite fall in recorded history.
2460. Sikhote-Alin Hybrid Meteorite. Iron meteorite,
IIAB. Witnessed fall February 12, 1947, eastern Siberia. Rare shrapnel / individual hybrid, 157.8 grams. This rare and very desirable specimen shows characteristics of both shattered (shrapnel) and whole (individual) meteorites, suggesting that it exploded close to Earth’s surface, after initially having its outside sculpted by ablation. One face represents the exterior of a large individual prior to fragmentation, as indicated by the large, overlapping regmaglypts on its surface. The angular reverse face represents the interior and is visible only because the larger mass was torn apart during flight. Starting Bid $200
2461. Sikhote-Alin Meteroite. Iron meteorite, IIAB. Witnessed fall February 12, 1947, eastern Siberia. Complete individual hybrid, 127.5 grams. This fine example displays characteristics synonymous with coveted Sikhote-Alin individuals. High-speed passage through Earth’s atmosphere has resulted in its surface melting and flowing into multiple, well-formed and overlapping regmaglypts (thumbprints) and an appealing sculptural shape. Starting Bid $200
www.RRAuction.com | 133
2462. Sikhote-Alin Meteorite Shrapnel. Iron meteorite, IIAB. Witnessed fall February 12, 1947, eastern Siberia. Rare uncleaned shrapnel, 179.0 grams. The vast majority of recovered Sikhote-Alin specimens were cleaned by the finders, however, it often removed some of the surface features unique to meteorites. Uncleaned, as-found pieces show an attractive bronze or ocher patina and examination with a loupe or magnifying lens will sometimes reveal intriguing surface details. While individual Sikhote-Alin meteorites display alluring features and appeal to the aesthetically-inclined, shrapnel fragments such as this—found in and around the large number of craters at the fall site—brilliantly illuminate the savage forces inflicted upon incoming meteorites. Starting Bid $200 2463. Sikhote-Alin Meteorite [Personal Collection of Geoffrey Notkin]. From the personal
collection of Geoffrey Notkin. Iron meteorite, IIAB. Witnessed fall February 12, 1947, eastern Siberia. Superb individual with sheared face, 609.7 grams. Although many pieces fell at the Sikhote-Alin site in 1947, there are precious few larger examples. Perhaps 90 to 95% of all recovered pieces were less than 500 grams in weight. It is, therefore, unusual to see a specimen of this size and quality, especially since no new material is being found at the site. This excellent specimen shows large, deep and well-formed flowing regmaglypts on over half its surface, as well as abundant flow lines. The reverse face may indicate an in-air collision with another meteorite from the same fall. This scarred face is suggestive of very high-speed contact. This excellent specimen is from the personal collection of Geoffrey Notkin, host of television’s “Meteorite Men” and CEO of Aerolite Meteorites. It was acquired many years ago directly from a friend of Notkin’s, and a hunter who recovered meteorites at the fall site in the 1990s, and it has remained in his private collection until now. Sikhote-Alin specimens of this size and quality are very rarely offered for sale. This lot also includes a hardback copy of the out-of-print book “Meteorite Hunter: The Search for Siberian Meteorite Craters” (McGraw-Hill 2002) by noted science writer, astronomer, and adventurer Roy Gallant. Interestingly enough, Notkin himself participated in one of Gallant’s expeditions which is chronicled in the same book and he is mentioned in Chapter Six: “Popigai: Mosquitos, Diamonds, and a Very Big Crater.” The book comes with dust jacket and is in like-new condition.” Starting Bid $300
2464. Sikhote-Alin Meteorite [Personal Collection of Geoffrey Notkin]. Iron meteorite, IIAB. Witnessed
fall February 12, 1947, eastern Siberia. Intriguing individual with abundant regmaglypts, 80.2 grams. This very attractive specimen is a treasure trove of Regmaglypts, with both faces being covered in tiny, overlapping thumbprints. The “front” or leading edge displays regmaglypts that are deeper and better formed. The “back” or trailing edge, also shows regmaglypts, but they are shallow. And so, this piece tells a story: It likely fragmented very high in the atmosphere. This beautiful specimen is from the personal collection of Geoffrey Notkin, and was handpicked from finds made at the fall site in the 1990s, because of its uniqueness. It has remained in Notkin’s private collection until now. Starting Bid $250
134 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
Chelyabinsk: 21st Century Fireball
One could argue that the history of meteorites is, in large part, also the violent and dangerous history of our fragile home planet being hammered by the cosmos—savagely and repeatedly. One could also argue that as far back as the 1400s, each century has had its definitive meteorite event, which shocked and terrified the populace, and for the 21st century, at least so far, no space rock enthusiast would deny that Chelyabinsk is the meteorite event that captured the attention of the world. Car-mounted video recorders, popular in Russia, captured astonishing footage of the fireball, and following a series of in-flight explosions, a large number of small meteorites rained down on the snow-covered ground outside of the city. Very shortly thereafter, the city itself was rocked by a massive shockwave and an estimated 1,200 people were injured. News of the fireball spread rapidly all over the world, and soon became the most widely-seen meteorite event in history. The stone meteorites presented here are from the definitive 21st-century meteorite event and they show rich, black fusion crust. This indicates that they were picked up very shortly after the fall, before having time to rust or weather. Of very particular note is the Chelyabinsk window [LOT 2476], shattered by the incoming bolide’s shockwave and personally collected and documented at the site by a reputable meteorite professional.
2465. Chelyabinsk Meteorite. Stone meteorite, LL5. Witnessed fall, Chelyabinsk, Russia, February 15, 2013. Complete fusion-crusted, oriented stone, 40.8 grams. Superb complete stone, entirely covered by rich black and brown fusion crust. This somewhat cone-shaped meteorite also displays some orientation, a faint rollover lip, delicate flowlines and a few regmaglypts of varying size and depth. A superior example of this most-witnessed of witnessed falls. Starting Bid $200
2466. Chelyabinsk Meteorite. Stone meteorite, LL5.
Witnessed fall, Chelyabinsk, Russia, February 15, 2013. Complete fusion-crusted, stone, 17.2 grams. Excellent cube-shaped stone showing rich, black primary and secondary fusion crust. Secondary crust forms when one or more faces of an incoming meteorite break or shatter during flight. Starting Bid $200
2467. Chelyabinsk Meteorite. Stone
meteorite, LL5. Witnessed fall, Chelyabinsk, Russia, February 15, 2013. Complete fusion-crusted, stone, 4.9 grams. Complete stone showing slight orientation and well-formed fusion crust on most of its surface. The beginnings of secondary fusion crust are visible in places where this stone likely collided with others, during flight, and the original primary crust was knocked away. Starting Bid $100
www.RRAuction.com | 135
Aba Panu: Packed with Minute Glassy Spheres
Aba Panu is a witnessed fall that occurred on April 19, 2018, when numerous stones landed between the Nigerian villages of Ipapo and Tede. An L3 chondrite, comparatively low in metal (nickel-iron), its chondrules are as close to pristine as we can expect to see. L3 meteorites are particularly interesting to researchers and collectors alike, as they underwent a very low degree of alteration on the parent bodies. Their 4.67-billion-year-old chondrules give us perhaps our best look back at the earliest moments of our own solar system. Aba Panu is delightfully rich in them: white, grey, and cream-colored chondrules and chondrule fragments. Densely packed together, their abundance is marvelous, in fact, the meteorite seems to be made up almost entirely of these tiny, ancient intriguing spheres. Combine that with the fact that in all of meteorite history there have only been seven L3 witnessed falls (none of the other six are readily available to collectors) and you have a highly desirable and rarely-offered space rock collectible.
2469. Aba Panu Meteorite Endcut. Stone meteorite, chondrite, L3. Witnessed fall, Oyo, Nigeria, April 19, 2018. Laboratory-prepared cut, 256.0 grams. Exceptional full slice of this rare witnessed fall. Note the extremely large spherical white chondrule on the polished face (see detail photo). The exterior shows fusion crust and a few blebs of extraterrestrial nickeliron. Starting Bid $300
2468. Aba Panu Meteorite. Stone meteorite, chondrite,
L3. Witnessed fall, Oyo, Nigeria, April 19, 2018. Laboratoryprepared full slice, 46.7 grams. A beautiful oval slice packed with fine, multi-colored chondrules. One face has been highly polished on a diamond lap; the other retains the saw-cut aspect. Starting Bid $200
136 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
2470. Ghadamis (Libya) Meteorite. Stone meteorite, chondrite, likely L6. Witnessed fall, August 26, 2018. Whole stone with fusion crust, 432.7 grams. Ghadamis (unofficial name) is recorded as falling in Libya on August 26, 2018. Note the rich black fusion crust and large well-formed regmaglypts on this excellent whole stone. Not having yet been given an official name by the Nomenclature Committee, the academic body that oversees all new meteorite finds, its name is listed as “unofficial,” though there’s no doubt it’s an authentic meteorite. Starting Bid $200
2471. Aguas Zarcas Meteorite. Carbonaceous chondrite,
CM2. Witnessed fall, Alajuela, Costa Rica, April 23, 2019. Part slice, 1.4 grams. This part slice shows a charcoal-grey matrix with an intriguing dusting of delicate, light-colored ancient chondrules—survivors from the very dawn of our solar system. The exterior edge shows some original, black fusion crust. Extremely rare, desirable, and scientifically extraordinary. Starting Bid $200
2472. Aguas Zarcas Meteorite. Carbonaceous chondrite, CM2. Witnessed fall, Alajuela, Costa Rica, April 23, 2019. Partial end cut with fusion crust, 13.0 grams. Part end cut with highly-polished face showing abundant tiny chondrules, and an interior with rich, matte black fusion crust, reminiscent of a charcoal briquette, as is expected from this rare and carbonbearing meteorite. Starting Bid $200
The Universe Was Here: Hammer Stones and Impact Artifacts
The odds of a person, or a thing, being hit by a meteorite are—pardon the pun—literally astronomical. Manmade objects that have been struck by a meteorite and show the evidence of that impact, and are acquireable, are also tiny in number. The Peekskill Meteorite car which was struck by a stone meteorite in New York State in 1992 and the Claxton, Georgia mailbox that was stoved in eight years earlier are two of precious few examples. While meteorites fascinate, the damage they do to terrestrial objects—the physical marking of their passage from the cosmos (there) to Earth (here) seems to enthrall even more. It’s as if the Universe said: I was here!” The meteorites that have perpetrated such damage are known, colorfully, as hammer stones. The instances in which an object of human origin that has been impacted by a meteorite have come up for sale are so few in number that one could almost describe any such sale as a cosmic event in itself. RR Auction is delighted to present not one, but two, such impact artifacts in our summer 2020 auction: The Aguas Zarcas roof panel and partial hammer stone [LOT 2474] and the Chelyabinsk window [LOT 2476]
2473. Aguas Zarcas Hammer Meteorite. Car-
bonaceous chondrite, CM2. Witnessed fall, Alajuela, Costa Rica, April 23, 2019. Part hammer stone with small patch of fusion crust and tiny flecks of green paint from impact 5.4 grams. This 5.4-gram fragment is part of the hammer stone which hit the Aguas Zarcas roof panel [LOT 2473]. The impacting stone broke into several pieces and this is the largest known extant piece. It shows abundant small white a grey chondrules and small patches of fusion crust. Please note the minuscule flecks of green paint (visible in catalog photo) which adhered to it upon impact. Starting Bid $300
www.RRAuction.com | 137
2474. The Aguas Zarcas Roof Panel and Hammer Stone Fragments. AGUAS ZARCAS HAMMER STONE FRAGMENT WITH PAINT: Carbonaceous chondrite, CM2. Witnessed fall, Alajuela, Costa Rica, April 23, 2019. Fusion-crusted part hammer stone with green paint from impact, 3.87 grams. AGUAS ZARCAS IMPACT ARTIFACT: Exceptional and unique impact artifact. Section of corrugated roof from La Marina, Costa Rica, mounted, with display items and photographs. The Aguas Zarcas carbonaceous chondrite witnessed fall of April 23, 2019 in Costa Rica, is regarded as an important event due to the extreme rarity of the meteorite’s type—a CM2, which makes up only three percent of all meteorites—and the rapidity with which fallen pieces were recovered. Perhaps of even greater interest to collectors and historians is what one of those meteorites struck. As reported by the Spacerocks Club: “At 9:07pm CST on April 23rd, 2019 a meteor was seen in the sky above Alajuela province in Costa Rica. Sonic boom explosions followed a few moments later and pieces of rock rained down on the villages of: La Palmera, La Marina, Santa Rosa and Aguas Zarcas.The following day Danny Rojas Castro happened to be renovating the community center Salon Juan Rafael Rojas Quiros/Amalia Kopper Dodero of La Marina when he noticed a strange damaged panel. Then he noticed the fragments of rock on the street and sidewalk below the roof. An enterprising collector who traveled to the scene in hopes of finding meteorites acquired this extraordinary artifact directly from Senõr Castro, along with several of the meteorite fragments. This lot comprises the actual section of green corrugated roof that was hit by one of the incoming Aguas Zarcas meteorites, together with a paint-streaked fragment of the meteorite itself. The dent or tear in the metal, formed by the impact, can clearly be seen towards the top left of the panel. The roof panel has been mounted on a wooden display board with a frame edge. The other portion of this lot consists of a 3.87-gram fusion-crusted fragment of the actual impactor, or hammer stone, that hit the roof. The hammer stone broke into several pieces, following the impact. Two other fragments of the hammer stone, weighing 5.4 grams [LOT 2473] and 1.3 grams [LOT 2475], are offered separately. Note the green paint on the leading surface of the meteorite, which is clearly a match for the green paint of the roof panel. A pairing of a hammer stone and roof panel impact artifact is an extraordinarily rare and unusual occurrence. The pairing was exhibited by Aerolite Meteorites, Inc., during January and February 2020 at the international gem show in Tucson, Arizona where it was seen by an estimated 60,000 people. Displays such as this are a source of wonder, and not just for meteorite enthusiasts. Such pieces make us remember and realize that our planet is a target in space and that, when meteorites do land, they can land anywhere...and hit anything. Such things perhaps make us more aware of our place in the cosmos. Our resident meteorite expert said this pairing “Would likely make an eternally popular and crowd-drawing exhibit at any science museum.” This lot is also accompanied by a signed affidavit of authenticity from the acquiring agent. Starting Bid $2500
138 |
July 16, 2020 | METERORITES
2475. Aguas Zarcas Hammer Meteorite.
Carbonaceous chondrite, CM2. Witnessed fall, Alajuela, Costa Rica, April 23, 2019. Part hammer stone with fusion crust, 1.3 grams. This is the smallest known extant piece of the Aguas Zarcas hammer stone. Black fusion crust is evident. No paint is evident. Starting Bid $200
2476. Chelyabinsk Meteor Shockwave Window. Exceptional impact artifact: window
with broken glass shattered by the shockwave from the Chelyabinsk fireball, February 15, 2013, Chelyabinsk, Russia. The most thoroughly documented fireball event in all of recorded history, it is unparalleled for another reason: the massive damage it inflicted on civilization. A noted and experienced meteorite hunter and collector quickly traveled from the United States to Russia with the intention of recovering freshly-fallen meteorites. He was successful in this, but he also had another, and perhaps, even more challenging goal: He was going after impact artifacts. Surprised to initially find no obvious remaining architectural evidence of the massive fireball and its shockwave, eventually, a house was located where the owner had not been quite as efficient with rapid repair response. Presented here is the Chelyabinsk broken window impact artifact: a wooden frame with several glass shards shattered by the 2013 fireball still in place. A cloth backing has been added, along with a photograph of the window in front of the Russian house from which it was recovered. A rare, excellent, and enthralling memento of Earth’s “most famous fireball.” Pair it with one of the fusion-crusted Chelyabinsk stone meteorites offered here [SEE LOTS 2465 through 2467], the actual creators of the shockwave that shattered this window, for a seriously museum-worthy exhibit. Starting Bid $300
Visit www.RRAuction.com for more detailed meteorite descriptions and images. www.RRAuction.com | 139
CONDITIONS OF SALE ANYONE EITHER REGISTERING TO BID OR PLACING A BID (“BIDDER”) ACCEPTS THESE CONDITIONS OF SALE AND ENTERS INTO A LEGALLY, BINDING, ENFORCEABLE AGREEMENT WITH R&R AUCTION COMPANY OF MASSACHUSETTS, LLC (“RR AUCTION”) TOGETHER WITH BIDDER, THE “PARTIES”). This Agreement contains important provisions that control rights and liabilities, and specifically has provisions governing how disputes are handled as well as LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY that can be imposed upon RR Auction, WAIVER OF JURY and ARBITRATION PROVISIONS. This acknowledgement is a material term of these Conditions of Sale and of the consideration under which RR Auction agrees to these terms. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. The following terms and conditions (“Conditions of Sale”) constitute the sole terms and conditions under which RR Auction will offer for sale and sell the property on its website, and/or described in the catalog of items for auction (the “Catalog”). These Conditions of Sale constitute a binding agreement between the Parties with respect to the auction in which Bidder participates (the “Auction”). By bidding at the Auction, whether in person, through an agent or representative, by telephone, facsimile, online, absentee bid, or by any other form of bid or by any other means, Bidder acknowledges the thorough reading and understanding of all of these Conditions of Sale, all descriptions of items in the Catalog, and all matters incorporated herein by reference, and agrees to be fully bound thereby. Section 1 The Parties1.1 RR Auction and Auction This Auction is presented by RR Auction, a d/b/a/ of R&R Auction Company of Massachusetts, LLC, as identified with the applicable licensing information on the title page of the Catalog or on the www.RRauction.com Internet site. The Auction is conducted under these Conditions of Sale. Announcements and corrections from the podium at live auctions and those made through the Conditions of Sale appearing on the Internet at RRauction.com supersede those in the printed Catalog. 1.2 Bidder Bidder shall mean the original Bidder on the property offered for sale by RR Auction and not any subsequent owner or other person who may acquire or have acquired an interest therein. If Bidder is an agent, the agency must be disclosed in writing to RR Auction prior to the time of sale, otherwise the benefits of the warranty shall be limited to the agent and not transferable to the undisclosed principal. The rights granted to Bidder under these Conditions of Sale are personal and may not be assigned or transferred to any other person or entity, whether by operation of law or otherwise without the express written assent of RR Auction. Bidder may not transfer, assign, or otherwise convey these Conditions of Sale or any of the rights herein, and such purported transfer, assignment, or conveyance shall be null and void. No third party may rely on any benefit or right conferred on any Bidder by these Conditions of Sale, and no third party is intended as a beneficiary of these Conditions of Sale. Bids will not be accepted from minor persons under eighteen (18) years of age without a parent or legal guardian’s written consent containing an acknowledgment of the Conditions of Sale herein and indicating their agreement to be bound thereby on behalf of the Bidder. All Bidders must meet RR Auction’s qualifications to bid. Any Bidder who is not a client in good standing of RR Auction may be disqualified at RR Auction’s sole option and will not be awarded lots. Such determination may be made by RR Auction in its sole and unlimited discretion, at any time prior to, during, or even after the close of the Auction. RR Auction reserves the right to exclude any person from the Auction. If an entity places a bid, then the person executing the bid on behalf of the entity agrees to personally guarantee payment for any successful bid and agrees to be bound by these Conditions of Sale in addition to company for whom the Bidder is acting By accepting the Conditions of Sale, Bidder personally and unconditionally guarantees payment. Section 2 Bidding Privileges 2.1 In order to place bids, Bidders who have not established an account with RR Auction must either furnish satisfactory credit information (including two collectibles-related business references) or supply additional information if requested, well in advance of the Auction. Bidders who are not members of RRAuction. com should pre-register before the close of the Auction to allow adequate time to contact references. Privileges will be granted at the sole discretion of RR Auction. Additionally, Bidders who have not previously established credit or who wish to bid in excess of their established credit history may be required to provide a cash deposit prior to RR Auction’s acceptance of a bid. Check writing privileges and immediate delivery of merchandise may also be determined by pre-approval of credit based on a combination of criteria: RRAuction.com history, related industry references, bank verification, a credit bureau report and/or a personal guarantee for a corporate or partnership entity in advance of the Auction venue. 2.2 Bidder providing any false or misleading information provided in connection with the registration shall be a material breach of the Conditions of Sale and in addition to any other remedies at law shall excuse RR Auction from performance under these Conditions of Sale, including the right to any refund. 2.2 Bidding privileges may be revoked without notice, for any reason, at the sole discretion of RR Auction . Section 3 Buyer’s Premium 3.1 The Bidder acknowledges and agrees that a 25% buyer’s premium will be
added to the hammer price on all individual lots sold in timed and live Auctions. Buyer’s premium for our Sports Auctions is 20%. For payment other than by cash, delivery will not be made unless and until full payment has been received by RR Auction, i.e., check or wired funds have fully cleared. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, signed by RR Auction, payment in full is due within thirteen (13) calendar days of the Auction or within twelve (12) calendar days of the invoice date, whichever is earlier. Bidder’s failure to pay any payment in full when due required shall constitute a material breach, and in addition to other damages available under contract or law, at RR Auction’s election, RR Auction may cancel the sale and require full premium still be due along with interest at 1.5% per month from the date of breach, or at the maximum legally allowable rate. Section 4 Bidding 4.1 Each Bidder’s determination of its bid should be based upon its own examination of the item(s) and independent investigation, rather than the any reliance as to what is represented in the Catalog, online or elsewhere. Bidder affirms that it regards any statements made by RR Auction concerning the item as solely opinion and that Bidder is making its own inspection and independent evaluation of the goods, and is not relying upon any description or statements by RR Auction (including as to quality, authenticity, provenance, ownership, liens existing, on goods legality, or value) in making its determination to bid on or purchase an item. In any purchase or sale, the value of the item(s) is determined by the price. THE BIDDER HEREBY ASSUMES ALL RISKS CONCERNING ANY AND ALL PURCHASES TO THE FULLEST EXTENT UNDER APPLICABLE LAW. 4.2 RR AUCTION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ERRORS IN BIDDING. A Bidder should make certain to bid on the correct lot and that the bid is the maximum (plus the Buyer’s Premium) that the Bidder is willing and able to pay. Since other Bidders (by mail, facsimile, online, and in person) will be present, and since a re-offering could damage the momentum of the sale, once the hammer has fallen and RR Auction has announced the winning Bidder, such Bidder is unconditionally bound to pay for the lot, even if the Bidder has made a mistake. 4.3 All prospective Bidders who examine lots in person prior to the sale shall personally assume all responsibility for any damage they cause in so doing. RR Auction shall have sole discretion in determining the value of the damage caused, which shall be promptly paid by the prospective Bidder. 4.4 Title to any lot remains with Consignor, any secured party of the Consignor, or assignee of Consignor, as the case may be, until the lot is paid for in full by Bidder and Bidder has fully satisfied any outstanding financial obligations to RR Auction (including as it concerns aby other lots). RR Auction reserves the right to require payment in full before delivering any lot to the successful Bidder. 4.5 It is the Bidder’s responsibility and obligation to have the lots fully insured while in their possession. Bidder assumes any and all risk of loss upon the earlier of shipment to Bidder or in Bidder’s possession. 4.6 Bidder grants to RR Auction or its assigns the right to offset any sums due, or found to be due by RR Auction, and to make such offset from any past, subsequent or future consignment, or items acquired by Bidder in possession or control of RR Auction or from any sums due to Bidder by RR Auction. Bidder further grants RR Auction a lien consisting of a senior security interest (or purchase money security interest to the extent applicable) in such sums or items to the fullest extent applicable, authorizes RR Auction to file documents concerning the interest, and Bidder agrees to execute any further documents as may be reasonably necessary to grant RR Auction such security interest. Bidder agrees that RR Auction and its assigns shall be a secured party with respect to items bought by Bidder and in the possession of RR Auction, to the extent of the maximum indebtedness, plus all accrued fees and expenses, until the indebtedness is paid. 4.7 By bidding in this sale, Bidder personally and unconditionally guarantees payment. The authorized representative of any corporate Bidder who is present at the sale shall provide RR Auction or its agent, prior to the commencement of the bidding (or at the time of registration), with a statement signed by a principal, director or officer that they he or she personally and unconditionally guarantees any payment due RR Auction. 4.8 RR Auction may at its sole and absolute discretion, make loans or advances to Consignors and/or prospective Bidders. Section 5 Bidding Options 5.1 Non-Internet bids (including but not limited to in-person, facsimile, phone and mail bids) are treated similarly to floor bids in that they must be on-increment. Any in-person, facsimile, phone, or mail bids that do not conform to a full increment will be rounded up or down to the nearest full increment and this revised amount will be considered Bidder’s high bid. 5.2 When identical bids are submitted, preference is given to the first received. To ensure the greatest accuracy, written bids should be entered on the standard printed bid sheet and be received at RR Auction’s place of business at least twenty-four (24) hours before the Auction start. RR Auction is not responsible for executing mail bids or facsimile bids received on or after the day the first lot is sold, nor Internet bids submitted after the published closing time; nor is RR Auction responsible for proper execution of bids submitted by telephone, mail, facsimile, e-mail, Internet, or in person once the Auction begins. 5.3 In all Auctions, bids on an item must raise the current high bid by at least 10%, or as specified on a per-Auction basis. Bids will be accepted in whole dollar amounts only. No “buy” or “unlimited” bids will be accepted. In a live sale, bids on an item can change at the discretion of RR Auction. 5.4 RR Auction reserves the right to accept or decline any bid. Bids must be for an entire lot and each lot constitutes a separate sale. All bids are per lot unless otherwise announced. Live auction lots will be sold in their numbered sequence unless RR Auction directs otherwise. It is unlawful and illegal for Bidders to collude, pool, or agree with another Bidder to pay less than the fair value for lot(s). For live auctions, RR Auction will have final discretion in the event that any dispute should arise between Bidders. RR Auction will determine the successful
Bidder, cancel the sale, or re-offer and resell the lot or lots in dispute. RR Auction will have final discretion to resolve any disputes arising after the sale and in online auctions. If any dispute arises, RR Auction’s sale record is conclusive. Section 6 Payment 6.1 Subject to fulfillment of all of the Conditions of Sale set forth herein, upon the sooner of (1) the passing of title to the offered lot pursuant to these Conditions of Sale, or (2) possession of the offered lot by the Bidder, Bidder thereupon (a) assumes full risk and responsibility (including without limitation, liability for or damage to frames or glass covering prints, paintings, photos, or other works), and (b) will immediately pay the full purchase price or such part as RR Auction may require. In addition to other remedies available to RR Auction by law, RR Auction reserves the right to impose from the date of sale a late charge of 1.5% per month of the total purchase price if payment is not made in accordance with the conditions set forth herein. All property must be removed from RR Auction’s premises by the Bidder at his/her expense not later than sixty (60) business days following its sale and, if it is not so removed, RR Auction may send the purchased property to a public warehouse for the account, at the risk and expense of the Bidder. 6.2 Payment is due upon closing of the Auction session, or upon presentment of an invoice. RR Auction reserves the right to void an invoice if payment in full is not received within thirteen (13) calendar days of the Auction or within twelve (12) calendar days of the invoice date. In cases of nonpayment, RR Auction’s election to void a sale does not relieve the Bidder from their obligation to pay RR Auction its fees (seller’s and Buyer’s Premium) on the lot and any other damages pertaining to the lot. 6.3 All sales for total invoices greater than $2,500 are strictly for cash in United States dollars (including U.S. currency, bank wire, cashier checks, eChecks, and bank money orders), and are subject to all reporting requirements. 6.4 All deliveries are subject to good funds; funds being received in RR Auction’s account before delivery of the Purchases; and all payments are subject to a clearing period. RR Auction reserves the right to determine if a check constitutes “good funds”: checks drawn on a U.S. bank are subject to a ten (10) calendar day hold, and ten (10) business days when drawn on an international bank. Clients with pre-arranged credit status may receive immediate credit for payments via e-Check, personal or corporate checks. 6.5 In the event that a Bidder’s payment is dishonored upon presentment(s), Bidder shall pay the maximum statutory processing fee set by applicable state law. If Bidder attempts to pay via check and the financial institution denies the transfer from Bidder’s bank account, or the payment cannot be completed using the selected funding source, Bidder agrees to complete payment. 6.7 If RR Auction refers any unpaid invoice to an attorney for collection, the Bidder agrees to pay and shall be liable for RR Auction’s attorney’s fees, court costs, and other collection costs incurred by RR Auction in addition to the invoice amount and interest the greater of 1.5% per month or at the maximum legally allowable rate from date of invoice to collection. If RR Auction assigns collection to its house counsel, such attorney’s time expended on the matter shall be compensated at a rate comparable to the hourly rate of independent attorneys. 6.8 RR Auction shall have a lien against the merchandise purchased by the Bidder (as well as to the extent it is a consignor any other monies owed or due to Bidder) to secure payment of the Auction invoice. RR Auction is further granted a lien and the right to retain possession of any other property of the Bidder then held by RR Auction or its affiliates to secure payment of any Auction invoice or any other amounts due RR Auction or affiliates from the Bidder. With respect to these lien rights, RR Auction shall have all the rights of a secured creditor, including but not limited to the right of sale. In addition, with respect to payment of the Auction invoice(s), the Bidder waives any and all rights of offset he might otherwise have against RR Auction and the consignor of the merchandise included on the invoice (the Consignor”). If a Bidder owes RR Auction or its affiliates on any account, RR Auction and its affiliates shall have the right to offset such unpaid account by any credit balance due Bidder, and it may secure by possessory lien any unpaid amount by any of the Bidder’s property in their possession. 6.9 All checks, cashiers checks, bank checks, or money orders are payable to R&R Auction Company of Massachusetts, LLC. RR Auction clients with an invoice totaling $2,500 or under will have the option to pay by VISA, Mastercard, Discover or Paypal. All Paypal payments must be sent to FinanceDepartment@rrauction.com.
Section 7 Sales Tax RR Auction is a remote seller and we are now required to collect Sales/Use Tax from our bidders. The states that we have nexus in we will be required to collect and remit sales tax on your behalf. Each state has different requirements to meet nexus. When RR Auction has achieved a certain monetary and/or invoice threshold in each state we will apply sales tax to your total invoice. Please go to our terms on our website to see the states that are affected. If we have not achieved nexus in a particular state it is still your responsibility to pay sales tax on your purchases. The sales tax rate is determined by the State, Country, and City where purchases are shipped to. If you decide to pick up your purchases at our New Hampshire location you will not be required to pay sales tax. The State of New Hampshire does not have a general sales and use tax. All purchases picked up at our Massachusetts location will be taxed at the current rate of 6.25%.
Pennsylvania sales or use tax may be due in connection with the purchase and delivery of tangible personal property to Pennsylvania individuals and businesses. The purchaser is required to file a use tax return if tax is due in connection with the purchase and delivery in the Commonwealth. This notice is required pursuant to the provisions of the Tax Reform Code of 1971. 72 P.S. ¤ 7213.2. If you have a resale number please email Sue@RRAuction.com or fax to (603) 7324288 a copy of your state resale certificate and you will be exempt from paying sales tax. Section 8 Delivery; Shipping; and Handling Charges Bidder is liable for shipping and handling and providing accurate information as to shipping or delivery locations and arranging for such. RR Auction is unable to combine purchases from other auctions or affiliates into one package for shipping purposes. Lots won will be shipped in a commercially reasonable time after payment in good funds for the merchandise and the shipping fees is received or credit extended, except when third-party shipment occurs. Bidder agrees that service and handling charges related to shipping items which are not pre-paid may be charged to a credit card on file with RR Auction. Successful international Bidders shall provide written shipping instructions, including specified Customs declarations, to RR Auction for any lots to be delivered outside of the United States. NOTE: Declaration value shall be the item’(s) hammer price and RR Auction shall use the correct harmonized code for the lot. Domestic Bidders on lots designated for third-party shipment must designate the common carrier, accept risk of loss, and prepay shipping costs. Section 9 Title Title shall not pass to the successful Bidder until all invoices of Bidder (including those pertaining to the item(s) at issue) and amounts owed to RR Auction are paid in full. It is the responsibility of the Bidder to provide adequate insurance coverage for the items once they have been delivered to a common carrier or third-party shipper. Section 10 Rights Reserved RR Auction reserves the right, at any time before, during or after an auction has ended to: withdraw any lot before or at the time of the Auction, cancel any bid, and/ or to postpone the Auction of all or any lots or parts thereof, for any reason. RR Auction shall not be liable to any Bidder in the event of such withdrawal, cancellation, or postponement under any circumstances. RR Auction reserves the right to refuse to accept bids from anyone at any time. Section 11 Conducting the Auction 11.1 RR Auction reserves the right to postpone the Auction or any session thereof for a reasonable period of time for any reason whatsoever, and no Bidder or prospective Bidder shall have any claim as a result thereof, including consequential damages. 11.2 RR Auction’s Discretion: RR Auction shall determine opening bids and bidding increments. RR Auction has the right in its absolute discretion to reject any bid in the event of dispute between Bidders or if RR Auction has doubt as to the validity of any bid, to advance the bidding at its absolute discretion and to determine the successful Bidder in the event of a dispute between Bidders, to continue the bidding or to reoffer and resell the lot in question. In the event of a dispute after the sale, RR Auctions record of final sale shall be conclusive. RR Auction also may reject any bid if RR Auction decides either that any bid is below the reserve of the lot or article or that an advance is insufficient. Unless otherwise announced by RR Auction at the time of sale, no lots may be divided for the purpose of sale. 11.3 Reserves Lots may be subject to a reserve which is the confidential minimum price below which the lot will not be sold. Consignors may not bid on their own lots or property. RR Auction may, from time to time, bid on items that it does not own. RR Auction may execute bids consecutively or otherwise up to one bid increment below the reserve. 11.4 Off-Site Bidding Bidding by telephone, facsimile, online, or absentee bidding (advance written bids submitted by mail) are offered solely as a convenience and permitted subject to advance arrangements, availability, and RR Auction’s approval which shall be exercised at RR Auction’s sole discretion. Neither RR Auction nor its agents or employees shall be held liable for the failure to execute bids or for errors relating to any transmission or execution thereof. In order to be considered for off-site bidding in any manner, Bidders must comply with all of these Conditions of Sale and the terms contained on the Registration Form. 11.5 Estimate Prices: In addition to descriptive information, each item in the Catalog sometimes includes a price range which reflects opinion as to the price expected at auction (the “Estimate Prices”). In other instances, Estimate Prices can be obtained by calling RR Auction at (603) 732-4280. The Estimate Prices are based upon various factors including prices recently paid at auction for comparable property, condition, rarity, quality, history and provenance. Estimate Prices are prepared well in advance of the sale and subject to revision. Estimates do not include the Buyer’s Premium or sales tax (see under separate heading). 11.6 Owned or Guaranteed Property: RR Auction generally offers property consigned by others for sale at public auction; in very limited occasion, lots are offered that are the property of RR Auction. 11.7 Before the Auction: Bidder may attend pre-sale viewing for all of RR Auction’s auctions at no charge. All property to be auctioned is usually on view for several days prior to the sale. Bidder is encouraged to examine lots thoroughly. Bidder may also request condition reports (see below). RR Auction’s staff are available at viewings and by appointment. 11.8 Maximum Bids In All Auctions: To maximize Bidder’s chance of winning, RR Auction strongly encourages the use of maximum bids. RR Auction will then bid for Bidder until the lot reaches Bidder’s specified maxi-
mum. Maximum bids are strictly confidential. Placing arbitrary, non-incremental bids on lots with prior maximum bids may result in these lots being sold for less than 10% above the under Bidder’s bid. 11.9 Successful Bids: The fall of RR Auction’s hammer indicates the final bid. RR Auction will record the paddle number of the Bidder. If Bidder’s salesroom or absentee bid is successful, Bidder will be notified after the sale by mailed or emailed invoice. 11.10 Unsold Lots: If a lot does not reach the reserve, it is bought-in. In other words, it remains unsold and is returned to the Consignor. RR Auction has the right to sell certain unsold items after the close of the Auction. Such lots shall be considered sold during the Auction and all these Terms and Conditions shall apply to such sales including but not limited to the Buyer’s Premium, return rights, and disclaimers. 11.11 Bidding in Timed Auction: Bidder may open, monitor, and/or raise bids at any time before the close of a lot through www.rrauction.com. RR Auction offers a callback service the day of the Auction, but Bidder is responsible for supplying a correct telephone number(s) where Bidder can be reached until the Auction closes. Bidder must request this service in writing. RR Auction will make reasonable efforts to ensure that Bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, RR Auction does not guarantee this service and it is merely a courtesy and not an enforceable right. The auctioneer may also execute a bid on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve, either by entering a bid in response to salesroom, telephone or absentee bids. Under no circumstances will the auctioneer place any bid on behalf of the consignor above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve. To ensure proper registration, those Bidders intending to bid via the Internet must visit www.RRauction.com and register accordingly at least one full day prior to the actual auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids. Any Bidder may bid on any lot prior to 6 pm EST/EDT. At that time, an extended bidding period goes into effect. If Bidder has not bid on a lot before 6 pm EST/EDT, Bidder may not bid on that lot after 6 pm EST/EDT. Only those Bidders who have placed bids on a lot before 6 pm EST/EDT will be allowed to bid on that lot after 6 pm EST/EDT. If Bidder is the only Bidder on a lot at 6 pm EST/EDT, that lot is awarded to Bidder. During the extended bidding period, a lot will remain open only to those who bid on that lot prior to 6 pm EST/EDT. All lots WITHOUT an opening bid at 6 pm EST/EDT will remain OPEN to ALL Bidders until 7 pm EST/EDT or until they receive their first bid. These lots will close immediately upon receipt of a bid or at 7 pm EST/EDT, whichever comes first. For all lots that are active after 7 pm EST/EDT, bidding will remain open until 30 minutes pass without a bid being placed on THAT lot (the “30 Minute Rule”). The 30 Minute Rule is applied on a PER LOT BASIS; each lot in the Auction closes individually based on bidding activity after 7 pm EST/EDT. On a PER LOT BASIS, the 30 minute timer will reset each time a bid is placed after 7 pm EST/EDT. If Bidder is the high Bidder, raising Bidder’s maximum bid will NOT reset the timer. RR Auction reserves the right to close the Auction at any time at its sole discretion. 11.12 Bidding - Internet Live Auction: Bidder may open, monitor, and/or raise bids at any time before the close of a lot through www. rrauction.com. RR Auction offers a callback service the day of the Auction, but Bidder is responsible for supplying a correct telephone number(s) where Bidder can be reached until the Auction closes. Bidder must request this service in writing. RR Auction will make reasonable efforts to ensure that Bidders who request a callback are contacted if outbid; however, RR Auction does not guarantee this service and it is merely a courtesy and not an enforceable right. To ensure proper registration, those Bidders intending to bid via the Internet must visit www.RRauction.com and register accordingly at least one full day prior to the actual auction. Winning bidders will be notified by RR Auction. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids. During live internet or live auction, property is auctioned in consecutive numerical order, as it appears in the catalog. The auctioneer will accept bids from those present in the salesroom or absentee bidders participating by telephone, internet or by written bid left with RR Auction in advance of the auction. The auctioneer may also execute a bid or bids (successively or otherwise) on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve, either by entering a bid in response to salesroom, telephone or absentee bids. Under no circumstances will the auctioneer place any bid on behalf of the consignor above the reserve. The auctioneer will not specifically identify bids placed on behalf of the consignor to protect the reserve. All auctions for lots are with reserve unless specifically stated otherwise. During live Auctions, internet bids can be placed in real time through one or more of the following Third Party services: www.liveauctioneers.com, www.invaluable. com and www.icollector.com. RR Auction is not responsible or liable for any problems, delays, or any other issues or problems resulting out of use of the Internet generally or specifically, including but not limited to transmission, execution or processing of bids. RR Auction treats any third-party site bids as floor or telephone bids. Floor bids and telephone bids are always considered first over third party sites bids, and floor bids are considered earlier than telephone bids. All RR Auction lots purchased through the third-party sites carry an additional Buyer’s Premium. 11.13 Miscellaneous: Agreements between Bidders and Consignors to effectuate a non-sale of an item at Auction, inhibit bidding on a consigned item to enter into a private sale agreement for said item, or to utilize RR Auction’s Auction to obtain sales for non-selling consigned items subsequent to the Auction, are strictly prohibited. If a subsequent sale of a previously consigned item occurs in violation of this provision, RR Auction reserves the right to charge
Bidder the applicable Buyer’s Premium and Consignor a Seller’s Commission as determined for each auction venue and by the terms of the seller’s agreement. Acceptance of these Terms and Conditions qualifies Bidder as a client who has consented to be contacted by RR Auction in the future. In conformity with ”donot-call” regulations promulgated by the Federal or State regulatory agencies, participation by the Bidder is affirmative consent to being contacted at the phone number shown in his application and this consent shall remain in effect until it is revoked in writing. RR Auction may from time to time contact Bidder concerning sale, purchase, and auction opportunities available. 11.14 Rules of Construction: RR Auction presents properties in a number of collectible fields, and as such, specific venues have promulgated supplemental Terms and Conditions. Nothing herein shall be construed to waive the general Conditions of Sale by these additional rules and shall be construed to give force and effect to the rules in their entirety. Section 12 RR Auction’s Remedies Failure of the Bidder to comply with any of these Conditions of Sale or the terms of the Registration Form is an event of material breach or default. In such event, RR Auction may, in addition to any other available remedies specifically including the right to hold the defaulting Bidder liable for the Purchase Price or to charge and collect from the defaulting Bidder’s credit or debit accounts as provided for elsewhere herein: (a) cancel the sale, retaining any payment made by the Bidder as damages (the Bidder understands and acknowledges that RR Auction will be substantially damaged should such default occur, and that damages under subpart (a) are necessary to compensate RR Auction for such damages); (b) resell the property without reserve at public auction or privately; (c) charge the Bidder interest on the Purchase Price at the rate of one and one-half percent (1.5%) per month or the highest allowable interest rate; (d) take any other action that RR Auction, in its sole discretion, deems necessary or appropriate to preserve and protect RR Auction’s rights and remedies. Should RR Auction resell the property, the original defaulting Bidder shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency in the purchase price and all costs and expenses associated there with, including but not limited to warehousing, sales-related expenses, reasonable attorney fees and court costs, commissions, incidental damages and any other charges due hereunder which were not collected or collectable. In the event that such Bidder is the successful Bidder on more than one lot and pays less than the purchase price for the total lots purchased, RR Auction shall apply the payment received to such lot or lots that RR Auction, in its sole discretion, deems appropriate. If RR Auction does not exercise such discretion, the lots to which the payment shall be applied will be in descending order from the highest purchase price to the lowest. Any Bidder failing to comply with these Conditions of Sale shall be deemed to have granted RR Auction a security interest in, and RR Auction may retain as collateral such security for such Bidder’s obligations to RR Auction, any Bidder’s property in RR Auction’s possession or to which title has not yet passed to Bidder. RR Auction shall have the benefit of all rights of a secured party under the Uniform Commercial Code (U.C.C.) as adopted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Section 13 Warranties 13.1 RR Auction does not provide any warranties to Bidders, whether expressed or implied, beyond those expressly provided in these Conditions of Sale. All property and lots are sold ”as is” and “where is”. By way of illustration rather than limitation, neither RR Auction nor the Consignor makes any representation or warranty, expressed or implied, as to merchantability or fitness for intended use, condition of the property (including any condition report), correctness of description, origin, measurement, quality, rarity, importance, exhibition, relevance, attribution, source, provenance, date, authorship, condition, culture, genuineness, value, or period of the property. Additionally, neither RR Auction nor the Consignor makes any representation or warranty, expressed or implied, as to whether the Bidder acquires rights in copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property (including exhibition or reproduction rights) related to the item, or whether the property is subject to any limitations or other rights. RR Auction does not make any representation or warranty as to title. 13.2 All descriptions, photographs, illustrations, and terminology including but not limited to words describing condition (including any condition reports requested by Bidder, see also Terminology), authorship, period, culture, source, origin, measurement, quality, rarity, provenance, importance, exhibition, and relevance, used in the Catalog, bill of sale, invoice, or anywhere else, represent a good faith effort made by RR Auction to fairly represent the lots and property offered for sale as to origin, date, condition, and other information contained therein; they are statements of opinion only. They are not representations or warranties and Bidder agrees and acknowledges that he or she shall not rely on them in determining whether or not to bid or for what price. Price estimates (which are determined well in advance of the Auction and are therefore subject to revision) and condition reports are provided solely as a convenience to Bidders and are not intended nor shall they be relied on by Bidders as statements, representations or warranties of actual value or predictions of final bid prices. 13.3 Bidders are accorded the opportunity to inspect the lots and to otherwise satisfy themselves as to the nature and sufficiency of each lot prior to bidding, and RR Auction urges Bidders to avail themselves accordingly. 13.4 All lots sold by RR Auction are accompanied by an Auction Certificate (“AC”). On any lot presented with an AC issued by RR Auction, the certification is only as to its attribution to the person or entity described or to the lot’s usage and only as explicitly stated therein (the “AC”), to the exclusion of any other warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to those pursuant to the Uniform Commercial Code. The AC inures only to the original Bidder (as shown in RR Auction’s records). Bidder may not transfer, assign, or otherwise convey the AC
and such purported transfer, assignment, or conveyance shall be null and void. Section 14 Firearms RR Auction complies with all Federal and State rules and regulations relating to the purchasing, registration and shipping of firearms. A Bidder is required to provide appropriate documents and the payment of associated fees, if any. Bidder is responsible for providing a shipping address that is suitable for the receipt of a firearm. Section 15 Unauthorized Statements Under no circumstances is any employee, agent or representative of RR Auction authorized by RR Auction to modify, amend, waive or contradict any of these Conditions of Sale, any term or condition set forth on a registration form, any warranty or limitation or exclusion of warranty, any term or condition in either the Registration Form or these Terms and Conditions regarding payment requirements, including but not limited to due date, manner of payment, and what constitutes payment in full, or any other term or condition contained in any documents issued by RR Auction unless such modification, amendment, waiver or contradiction is contained in a writing signed by all parties. Any statements, oral or written, made by employees, agents or representatives of RR Auction to Bidder, including statements regarding specific lots, even if such employee, agent or representative represents that such statement is authorized, unless reduced to a writing signed Bidder and by an authorized officer of RR Auction by all parties, are statements of personal opinion only and are not binding on RR Auction, and under no circumstances shall be relied upon by Bidder as a statement, representation or warranty of RR Auction. Section 16 Bidder’s Remedies 16.1 Except as stated expressly herein, Bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy related to or pertaining to items it bids upon, views, or purchases from RR Auction, and any claims by Bidder related to authenticity, ownership, condition, title or value, shall be against Consignor only. 16.2 This section sets forth the sole and exclusive remedies of Bidder as against RR Auction (inclusive of its affiliates, officers, managers, employees or agents), or in any way arising out of, related to, or in connection with these Conditions of Sale, , and is expressly in lieu of any other rights or remedies which might be available to Bidder by law. Time is of the essence with respect to these procedures. 16.3 Title to Items The Bidder hereby accepts the benefit of the Consignor’s warranty of title and any other representations and warranties made by the Consignor for the Bidder’s benefit. In the event that Bidder demonstrates in writing, satisfactory to the sole discretion of RR Auction, that there was a breach of the Consignor’s warranty of title concerning a lot purchased by Bidder, RR Auction may make demand upon the Consignor to pay to Bidder the Purchase Price (including any premiums, taxes, or other amounts paid or due to RR Auction). Should the Consignor not pay the Purchase Price to Bidder within thirty days after such demand (if any made), RR Auction may disclose the identity of the Consignor to Bidder and may assign to Bidder all or some of RR Auction’s rights against the Consignor with respect to such lot or property. Upon such disclosure and/or assignment, all responsibility and liability of RR Auction, if any, with respect to said lot or item shall automatically terminate related to or arising from these Conditions of Sale or such transaction operating as a complete waiver and general release by Bidder as to RR Auction and its agents, contractors, and affiliates, as to any and all claims concerning or related to the item, if any . RR Auction shall be entitled to retain the premiums and other amounts paid to RR Auction by Consignor only. The rights and remedies provided herein are for the original Bidder only and they may not be assigned or relied upon by any transferee or assignee under any circumstances. 16.4 Authenticity Challenge Process (1) If Bidder wishes to dispute or challenge the Authenticity of the lot or item (including asserting that it is incorrect), Bidder must adhere to the following procedure: Within 30 days of the Auction Date, Bidder must present written evidence to RR Auction, that the lot is not authentic as determined by a known expert in the field (and one recognized by RR Auction within its discretion) and send the physical item or lot at issue to RR Auction along with all evidence relied upon by Bidder for contesting the Authenticity. (“Authenticity Challenge Process”) “Authenticity” shall mean a gross discrepancy in the between the description, genuiness, or attribution of the item as represented by RR Auction in the Catalog or at the auction, and the item. If RR Auction concurs that the lot is not Authentic as was represented (it is sole discretion), Bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy as against RR Auction (inclusive of its affiliates, agents, employees, and contractors) shall be a refund of the purchase price of the subject item paid by Bidder, with no other costs, liabilities or amounts recoverable by Bidder. If RR Auction does not agree with the assertion by Bidder, then the Parties shall follow the dispute resolution procedures of these Conditions of Sale. Strict adherence to the Authenticity Challenge Process is a condition of standing for Bidder to initiate suit or claim. (2) So long as Bidder has complied with the Authenticity Challenge Process, any claim, suit or action, by Bidder concerning an AC or Certification of Authenticity, or related to the authenticity of the item must, without any exception, be brought within one (1) year of Auction Date and is subject to the other limitations and conditions stated in the Conditions of Sale. 16.5 Other Issues. Any dispute or claim by Bidder against RR Auction (or its affiliates, directors, employees, officers, agents, or contractors)) other than Au-
thenticity, concerning any item or lot bid upon, or purchased, including value, title, condition, bidding process, or description must be asserted (if at all) in the following manner: (1) If the description of any lot in the Catalog is materially or grossly incorrect (e.g., gross cataloging error), or there is any other gross material issue pertaining to the item or lot, the item or lot may be returned if returned within five (5) calendar days of receipt, and received by RR Auction no later than twenty-one (21) calendar days after the Auction Date with explanation in writing.. If there is any discrepancy between the description in the Catalog and a certificate of auction, then the description in the certificate of auction (“Lot Challenge Process”). This paragraph shall constitute Bidder’s sole right with respect to the return of items, and no refunds shall be given for any items not returned to and received by RR Auction within the period of time stated herein or not materially or grossly in deviation from the description. Such a refund is subject to RR Auction’s sole discretionary review, and any request for refund must be made concurrently with returning the physical item or lot to RR Auction. Any item not returned within said frame will constitute acceptance of the item and a waiver and release of any and all claims by Bidder pertaining to the item other than with respect to authenticity; and (2) Provided that the Bidder has engaged in the Lot Challenge Process, any claim concerning such must be brought no later than one (1) year of the Auction Date for the item or lot at issue and is subject to the other limitations and conditions stated in the Conditions of Sale. NO RETURN OR REFUND OF ANY AUCTION LOT WILL BE CONSIDERED OR PROVIDED EXCEPT AS PROVIDED IN THESE CONDITIONS OF SALE AND BIDDERS OR AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY LAW. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH SUCH SHALL BE A COMPLETE DEFENSE TO ANY CLAIMS BY BIDDER RELATED TO THE CONDITIONS OF SALE, ANY AUCTION OR BID. 16.6 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. For any and all claims by Bidder arising out of or related to this Agreement, Bidder’s viewing, bid, or purchase of items, or any agreement between the Parties, or otherwise, Bidder agrees that to the fullest extent such can be limited under the law, Bidder shall have no right to recover and hereby waives any and all rights to recover from against RR Auction or its affiliates, directors, employees, officers, agents, or contractors, consequential or indirect damages, lost profits damages, punitive, exemplary, statutory (or multiplier damages), physical or emotional distress damages, general or special damages of any kind (beyond amounts actually paid by Bidder for item(s) at issue), and in the event of recovery of any damages whatsoever, such shall be limited by the amounts actually paid by Bidder to RR Auction for the item(s) at issue in such claim, or if no money was paid to RR Auction by Bidder for items at issue, or there items are at issue, the amount of $150.00. Section 17 RR Auction’s Additional Services For Bidders who do not remove purchased property from RR Auction’s premises, RR Auction, in its sole discretion and solely as a service and accommodation to Bidders, may arrange to have purchased lots packed, insured and forwarded at the sole request, expense, and risk of Bidder. RR Auction assumes no and disclaims all responsibility and liability for acts or omissions in such packing or shipping by RR Auction or other packers and carriers, whether or not recommended by RR Auction. RR Auction assumes no and disclaims all responsibility and liability for damage to frames, glass or other breakable items. Where RR Auction arranges and bills for such services via invoice, RR Auction will include an administration charge. Section 18 Headings Headings are for convenience only and shall not be used to interpret the substantive sections to which they refer. Section 19 Entire Agreement Except to the extent Bidder is also a consignor (in which case the terms of the consignment agreement shall also govern), these Conditions of Sale constitute the entire agreement between the Parties together with the terms and conditions contained in the auction Registration Form. They may not be amended, modified or superseded except in a signed writing executed by all parties. No oral or written statement by anyone employed by RR Auction or acting as agent or representative of RR Auction may amend, modify, waive or supersede the terms herein unless such amendment, waiver or modification is contained in a writing signed by all parties. If any section of these Conditions of Sale or any term or provision of any section is held to be invalid, void, or unenforceable by any court or arbitrator of competent jurisdiction, the remaining parts of the agreement and remainder of the sections or terms and provisions of the section and all sections shall continue in full force and effect without being impaired or invalidated in any way. Section 20 Governing Law and Enforcement 20.1 The Parties agree that all agreements between the Parties including but not limited to these Conditions of Sale are entered into in Boston, Massachusetts, no matter where Bidder is situated and no matter by what means or where Bidder was informed of the Auction and regardless of whether catalogs, materials, or other communications were received by Bidder in another location. 20.2 The Parties agree that these Conditions of Sale, any other related agreement(s),
along with all claims between the Parties, including those arising out of or related to such are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without regard for its conflict of laws principles. The Parties agree that any dispute between the Parties, including but not limited to those related to or arising out of these Conditions of Sale, or related to or arising out of any other related agreement(s) shall be submitted to confidential binding arbitration (the ”Arbitration”) before a single Arbitrator of the American Arbitration Association (the “AAA”) The Parties agree that the Arbitration shall be conducted pursuant to the commercial rules of the AAA in Boston, Massachusetts, unless the Consumer Arbitration Rules apply, in which case, such rules and venue will govern. In the event that the Parties cannot agree on the selection of the Arbitrator, then the Arbitrator shall be selected by the AAA. The prevailing Party in the Arbitration shall also recover all of its related fees and costs, whether before or after the formal institution of the Arbitration, including but not limited to its reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs, if RR Auction prevails, such recovery, in addition to all remedies available at agreement or law, shall include the Buyer’s Premium as defined in these Conditions of Sale. Federal arbitration law, including the Federal Arbitration Act apply to this agreement to arbitrate and its related provisions. The arbitration and all related proceedings shall be held strictly confidential and all documents and discovery shall be held confidential and not used, published or disclosed publically or to anyone outside the Parties or expert consultants or counsel who shall agree to hold such confidential. 20.3 The Parties consent to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as exclusive jurisdiction and venue for all claims between the Parties except as provided specifically herein and may seek confirmation of the decision in the Arbitration pursuant to the Federal Arbitration Act in any Court of competent jurisdiction, including the courts of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. To the extent such is necessary under the law, RR Auction may enforce the Arbitration award against Bidder and any related Party in any court of competent jurisdiction. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as RR Auction consenting to jurisdiction or venue in any location outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. THE PARTIES MAY NOT BRING CLAIMS AGAINST EACH OTHER AS A CLASS OR CLASS MEMBER IN ANY CLAIMED CLASS, OR IN A REPRESENTATIVE ACTION UNLESS OTHERWISE AGREED. UNLESS OTHERWISE AGREED, THE CLAIMS AGAINST EACH OF THE OTHER CANNOT BE CONSOLIDATED OR JOINED WITH MORE THAN ONE ADDITIONAL PERSON OR ENTITIES’ CLAIMS. NO INJUNCTIVE OR DECLATORY RELIEF SOUGHT BY BIDDER IF ANY, CAN AFFECT OR BE ORDERED TO AFFECT ANY OTHER BIDDERS OR PERSONS. 20.4 Except as provided specifically in these Conditions of Sale in Bidder’s Remedies against RR Auction (along with its affiliates, directors, agents, officers, employees, and contractors) for any dispute, claim, cause of action related to or arising out of these Conditions of Sale or any other related agreement(s), brought by Bidder must be brought within the earlier of the Auction Date as it pertains to the item(s) at issue or no later than one (1) year of the acts, omissions or circumstances occurred giving rise to the alleged claim, without exception. This provision is intended as a full, complete and absolute bar to and release of any claims by Bidder initiated after one (1) year of such acts, omissions or circumstances. The Parties agree further that these waiver provisions are intended to be binding in the event of any dispute, specifically including but not limited to third party claims and cross-actions brought by Bidder. These provisions are consideration for the execution of these Conditions of Sale. 20.5 To the fullest extent under applicable law and except as specifically stated herein Bidder hereby holds harmless, releases and discharges RR Auction and its agents, officer’s directors, affiliates, successors, and assigns from any and all claims, liabilities, obligations, promises, agreements, damages, causes of action, suits, demands, losses, debts, and expenses of any nature whatsoever, known or unknown, suspected or unsuspected existing prior to these Conditions of Sale. Bidder agrees to the Conditions of Sale and upon each instance that Bidder participates in any auction, bids, or otherwise agrees to such terms and reaffirms this release as of the date of so participating or agreeing unless Bidder otherwise provides clear written notice to RR Auction prior to so bidding. 20.6 The Bidder hereby agrees that RR Auction shall be entitled to present these Conditions of Sale to a court in any jurisdiction other than set forth in this paragraph as conclusive evidence of the Parties agreement, and the Parties further agree that the court shall immediately dismiss any action filed in such jurisdiction. 20.7 Liquidated Damages for Specific Breaches In the event that Bidder provides false information in connection with registering for bidding, fails to correct or update information or breaches the Conditions of Sale by failing to pay the purchase price when due after becoming the winning bidder, as liquidated damages associated with such breaches, R&R may obtain from Bidder the greater of (1) 150% the reserve of the item (if any); (2) the amount bidder bid; or (3), the full amount that bidder would have otherwise paid. Bidder will also be liable for an additional 20% of such amount to account for additional administrative costs, shipping, additional advertising, and other damages and liabilities fees that are difficult to calculate on an item-by-item basis. 20.8 Indemnity. Bidder agrees to defend, indemnify, hold harmless RR Auction (along with its officers, directors, agents, contractors, and affiliates) from and against any and all claims, costs, fees, damages, and liabilities arising out of or related to these Conditions of Sale, view of items, or lots, bidding, or participation in any auction by RR Auction, and/or or in any way connected to any item you
viewed, bid upon or purchased through RR Auction. Section 21: State-by-State Law Issues This Auction is being conducted in and the sale shall take place in the State of Massachusetts. Notwithstanding, the foregoing, should these terms and conditions violate the law of any State should that state’s law be found to govern, or any provision herein determined to be invalid, the clause itself and the remainder of the Agreement shall be valid to the fullest extent allowed. Also, to the extent other states law apply to any transaction arising out of the Agreement (without admitting such), RR Auction states: For Residents of California: SALE OF AUTOGRAPHED COLLECTIBLES: AS REQUIRED BY LAW, A DEALER WHO SELLS TO A CONSUMER ANY COLLECTIBLE DESCRIBED AS BEING AUTOGRAPHED MUST PROVIDE A WRITTEN EXPRESS WARRANTY AT THE TIME OF SALE. THIS DEALER MAY BE SURETY BONDED OR OTHERWISE INSURED TO ENSURE THE AUTHENTICITY OF ANY AUTOGRAPHED COLLECTIBLE SOLD BY THIS DEALER. A written express warranty is provided with each autographed collectible, as required by law. This dealer may be surety bonded or otherwise insured to ensure the authenticity of any autographed collectible sold by this dealer. Section 22 Glossary of Condition terms Information provided to prospective Bidders with respect of any lot, including any pre-sale estimate, whether written or oral, and information in any catalogue, condition or other report, commentary or valuation, is not a representation of fact but rather a statement of opinion held by RR Auction. Use of the following terms constitutes an opinion as follows: VERY FINE describes an item believed to be in virtually flawless condition, and is used sparingly for items of exceptionally attractive appearance. FINE is the most common statement of condition, and applies to most items that we offer. It describes items that we believe to show expected handling wear, generally acceptable random flaws (such as light creases, small bends, etc.), and an overall appearance that is pleasing to the majority of collectors. VERY GOOD describes an item that we believe exhibits more moderate flaws (such as toning, light staining, professional reinforcements or repairs, etc.). Most collectors would be comfortable with items in very good condition, and this would be the expected condition for many formats (early presidential documents, for example). GOOD describes an item which we believe to have obvious visible flaws, including heavy wear, missing portions, or repairs that affect appearance; generally items in this condition are offered only if an item is otherwise believed to be exceedingly rare or important. Bidder may call and request further details and information about RR Auction’s opinions concerning any item via phone or email which shall provided in RR Auction’s discretion. Certificate of Auction, Certificate of Authenticity and Goods Acquired: Bidder warrants that Bidder (and its agents, assigns, successors, and affiliates) shall not purposely deface, destroy, dismember, cut-up into parts the item or Lot purchased at auction from RR Auction and in the event such shall occur whether purposefully or accidently, Bidder (and its agents, assigns, successors, and affiliates) shall refrain from advertising, promoting, or marketing the item as having been purchased from RR Auction and shall in no event display, expressly claim, or imply that the item was certified or auctioned in such state by RR Auction. As liquidated damages for such breach, Bidder agrees to be liable to RR Auction for the greater of the amount of three (3) times the hammer price of the item along with all other fees and costs as otherwise provided in this Terms of Sale.
Since 1976
Let’s make history—together For over 40 years, relationships have been the backbone of RR Auction. We have made it a priority to keep our consignors informed and involved, encouraging them to share their voices, to instill their knowledge, and to forge a partnership based on our shared passion for history. With a mutual desire to achieve greatness, these relationships are at the heart of our success.
RR Auction
|
Est. 1976
|
www.RRAuction.com
|
(800) 937-3880