Buzz Aldrin
Apollo 11 Lunar Module Pilot and Second Man on the Moon · Science & Space Exploration
NASA
Era
Modern Era - circa 1990s-2010s
Item Type
Apollo 11 Anniversary First Day Cover (Envelope)
Condition
Excellent; signature is bold and vertical with no fading; item has minor edge wear.
Rarity
Commonly available; prolific signer, though highly sought after by space collectors.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential space memorabilia piece featuring a genuine signature from one of history's most famous explorers.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic (85% confidence)
Signature Style
Vertical stacked style featuring a stylized 'B' with rhythmic peaks and a looping 'A' suffix.
Signature Characteristics
Consistent pen pressure, rapid rhythm, and high-reaching terminal strokes typical of his seated signatures.
Ink & Medium
Black felt-tip permanent marker (Sharpie) on paper cardstock.
Item Description
Commemorative postal cover featuring Earth/Moon imagery and a 'Washington' postmark.
Estimated Value
250.00 - 450.00 USD
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches high-volume signing session examples from the late 90s perfectly.
Authentication Tips
Look for the sharp 'speed' in the vertical strokes and the specific 'z-z' formation in Buzz.
Certification Recommendation
Zarelli Space Authentication (Specialist) or PSA/DNA / JSA.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; flow is natural without hesitation.
Provenance Notes
Look for Space Coast Philatelic Society or official NASA alumni association documentation.
Historical Context
Signed to commemorate the first human landing on the moon, a pivotal event in 20th-century history.
Market Trends
Values for Apollo 11 moonwalkers remain stable with slight appreciation during anniversary years.
Investment Potential
Strong hold; lunar mission autographs represent finite historical milestones.
Similar Autographs
Neil Armstrong (extremely rare), Michael Collins, Gene Cernan.
Display & Preservation
Use UV-glass framing to prevent the black marker from turning brown or fading over time.
Interesting Facts
Aldrin's signature evolved from a neat cursive in the 60s to this fast, vertical shorthand as his popularity grew.