One of the major champions of space memorabilia collecting is holding another of its blockbuster auctions, later today (November 17).
Heritage Auction Galleries is one of a handful of major auction houses to throw its weight behind space collectibles - others including Paris' Artcurial and, more recently, Bonhams.
Despite the proven viability of space collectibles as alternative investments - Neil Armstrong's autograph is one of the best performers on the market, growing in value by 900% over the past 10 years - it remains a relatively untapped niche.
In other words, a small yet fast-growing number of investors are enjoying the immense benefits that space collectibles can bring. The space collectibles markets could enjoy another boost when Heritage pulls out the stops in Texas.
Among the lots for sale is a postcard flown to the Moon and back with a commemorative 8¢ "Apollo 8" stamp affixed to the front. The piece has been signed by the whole Apollo 11 crew - including Armstrong.
 Signed and flown in space... A postcard signed by Apollo 11's crew |
Pieces signed by each of the three Apollo 11 astronauts are as valuable as they are rare. The postcard will sell estimated at $25,000-$30,000, and has been consigned from the personal collection of Apollo 11's Command Module pilot Michael Collins.
Alongside other Space Race highlights, among them the training suit worn by Apollo 15's Jim Irwin, are a collection of natural treasures from the stars: a selection of meteorites, also a growing and lucrative collectibles niche.
We'll be watching the sale closely here at Paul Fraser Collectibles, being among the limited number of high-end collectibles retailers to specialise in space collectibles. Our past sales included Michael Collins' flight suit, earlier this year.
Our other stock items include a range of Apollo-related autographs, and the training suit worn by none-other than Buzz Aldrin, the second man on the Moon himself - just some of the items we've compiled in one of the largest inventories of space memorabilia available on the markets.
Meanwhile, as we previously reported, online bidding has been open for Heritage's Signature Space Exploration auction since last month, closing prior to the main event which is being held in Dallas, Texas. Watch this space for the results of the sale.
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