Apollo 11 space-flown flag flies high in online Space & Aviation auction

Collectors chased the space-flown Apollo 11 US flag to $47,700, ahead of a silver Robbins medal

Collectors' fascination with Apollo 11 remains undiminished, as the ever increasing value of Neil Armstrong's autograph (up nearly 1,000% since 2000 according to the PFC40 Autograph Index) shows.

The interest is clear from the results of a recent online auction which had two great pieces of space-flown memorabilia from Apollo 11 leading the way.

Firstly, there was a flown Apollo 11 Robbins Medal, with a raised design on the face of the iconic Apollo 11 mission insignia. The reverse of the sterling silver medal is engraved with the last names of astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins, along with the July 16, 1969, launch date, July 20, 1969, moon landing date, and July 24, 1969, return date.

Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Joseph P. Kerwin, who at the time was a member of the Astronaut Flight Office and later was science pilot onboard Skylab 2, the Robbins Medal sold for $39,381.60.

An example of an Apollo 11 space-flown flag (This one is available in another sale)

It was just pipped at the post by another flight-flown item: a printed fabric American flag. The flag is affixed by its corners to a 10 x 12 certificate stating:

"This flag travelled to the moon with Apollo 11, the first manned lunar landing, July 20, 1969," and signed in black felt tip by astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins.

Armstrong has also added an inscription that reads, "To Rooster with sincere best wishes from Apollo 11."

Rooster Andrews was the owner of a very successful sports shop business in Texas, a keen space collector, and a friend of the astronauts.

In fine condition, with a block of light even toning covering most of the certificate, small squares of toning to two corners of flag from adhesive on reverse, and the signatures a shade light. It sold for $47,652.

We're particularly proud of the Apollo 11 memorabilia we have in stock. One particular highlight is Buzz Aldrin's training suit - of which we're sufficiently confident of the ongoing value that we're offering it with our unique 120% guarantee.

Recent and related articles

· Sokol space suits float into Paris space memorabilia auction this month | 11 January 2012

· Top Five: investment benefits of Space Collectibles - why you should buy | 11 January 2012

· Top Five: Fascinating autograph sales of 2011 | 4 January 2012

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