Wright Brothers autographed telegraph form up 25% on estimate

A telegraph autographed by the Wright Brothers was among the high-flyers on June 9

A telegraph form autographed by both of the Wright brothers saw high-flying results at a Missouri auction on June 9. 

A rare example of both brothers' signatures

The sale, which featured numerous items of space and aviation memorabilia, saw the telegram star as top lot and once again proved the value of memorabilia from the inventive brothers. Credited with inventing the world's first airplane, the Wright brothers' legacy continually commands strong results at auction.

The Western Union telegraph form was signed by both Orville and Wilbur Wright on October 17, 1899, four years before their landmark flight in 1903. According to the auction house, it is possible that the document is related to the brothers' search for a suitable place to test their early aircrafts, having been sent to real estate law firm Mitchell & Smith in Charleston, South Carolina.

The telegram sold 25% above its high estimate of $8,000, achieving $10,000. This impressive realisation was boosted by the fact that signatures from both brothers are extremely rare, following Wilbur Wright's premature death in 1912. Paul Fraser Collectibles' has this cheque signed by Orville Wright for sale at superb value.

We are also offering a truly unique item to aviation enthusiasts. This collection of Wright brothers photographs was collated by Charles Rolls, founder of the Rolls Royce company.

Also featuring in the sale was an Apollo 12 flown USA flag and pair of dice. The dice are believed to be the only pair ever flown to the moon and came to auction with impeccable provenance. They were accompanied by a signed letter from lunar module pilot Alan Bean, who confirms that both the flag and dice "made the trip vacuum packed, so they didn't occupy very much space." Having come directly from the estate of Al Bishop, to whom the letter was addressed, the dice and flag sold for a combined $8,000.

Paul Fraser Collectibles has an autographed photo from the Apollo 12 mission, signed by three of the crew members. Discerning collectors will want to click here to see the exciting highlight of our fascinating space memorabilia.

Recent and related articles

·  Gemini 5 log book provides rare glimpse of life in space | 10 May 2012

·  Apollo 11 Robbins medals to reach astronomical bids in space auction? | 7 May 2012

·  Charles Lindbergh Spirit of St. Louis signed photo to auction | 6 May 2012

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Images: Regency Superior