Buzz Aldrin
Apollo 11 Astronaut and Lunar Module Pilot · Science & Innovation - Space Exploration
NASA
Era
Modern Era - circa 2000s-2020s
Item Type
Signed card or index card
Condition
Mint - the ink is vibrant with no fading and the paper shows no signs of wear or yellowing
Rarity
Common to Moderate - Aldrin has been a prolific signer for decades but demand remains consistently high as one of the first men on the moon
Overall Assessment
An excellent, bold, and clean example of a world-famous autograph. Highly desirable for any space exploration or history enthusiast.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic - high confidence level
Signature Style
Classic vertical scrawl with tall 'B' and 'A' loops, ending in a distinct dot over the 'i' and a sharp tail
Signature Characteristics
Fast, fluid motion with no hesitation marks. High vertical spikes on the 'B' and 'A'. The 'Buzz' often looks like a wavy line 'm' followed by a deep drop. The 'Aldrin' starts with a sharp peak.
Ink & Medium
Blue felt-tip permanent marker on white paper stock
Item Description
A clean, unlined white paper medium featuring a bold centered autograph in blue ink
Estimated Value
$150 - $250 USD for an unauthenticated index card; $300+ with PSA/DNA or JSA certification
Comparison to Known Examples
This signature is a textbook example of Aldrin's later-life signing style, showing the expected shorthand and characteristic loops seen in thousands of certified examples.
Authentication Tips
Look for the signature's verticality and the specific 'M' shape in the middle. The dot over the 'i' is often detached and positioned to the right of the final stroke. Check for the sharp, descending 'z' loop in Buzz.
Certification Recommendation
PSA/DNA or JSA (James Spence Authentication)
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the flow is natural and the ink saturation is consistent with a genuine fiber-tip pen movement.
Provenance Notes
Commonly obtained through private signings or his 'ShareSpace' foundation; documentation of the specific signing event would increase value.
Historical Context
As the second person to walk on the moon, Aldrin is a pillar of 20th-century history. His signature represents the pinnacle of the Space Race era.
Market Trends
Stable to slightly appreciating as the 1960s astronaut generation ages; Aldrin remains the most accessible of the historic Apollo 11 crew but his prices have risen steadily.
Investment Potential
Solid long-term hold; moonwalker autographs are foundational pieces for historical collectors.
Similar Autographs
Neil Armstrong (extremely rare/expensive), Michael Collins, Jim Lovell, John Glenn.
Display & Preservation
Store in a PVC-free top loader and keep out of direct sunlight to prevent the blue felt-tip ink from fading or 'ghosting'.
Interesting Facts
Aldrin changed his legal name from Edwin Eugene Aldrin Jr. to 'Buzz' in 1988; before that, earlier signatures might show 'Edwin E. Aldrin'. He is known for a very consistent, machine-like signing speed.