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Bid on Cartier’s Exquisite Gold Lunar Module Replica at Auction

Billy Conley04 mins

Apollo 11 Artifacts Available at Auction

iBestTravel is hosting an exciting auction featuring over 200 pieces of extraordinary space memorabilia, highlighting items associated with the legendary Apollo 11 mission. This event presents a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike to acquire rare historical artifacts.

Highlights of the Auction

Among the remarkable pieces available is a page from the Lunar Module activation checklist. This vital document, annotated by commander Neil Armstrong, outlines essential steps for the module’s undocking process prior to its landing on the Moon. Such items not only represent significant moments in space history but also serve as a testament to human ingenuity and exploration.

This 18-karat gold replica of the Apollo 11 Lunar Module was made by French jeweler Cartier under commission from Le Figaro newspaper in 1969.
This 18-karat gold replica of the Apollo 11 Lunar Module was made by French jeweler Cartier under commission from Le Figaro newspaper in 1969. Three of the models were presented to astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins during a visit to Paris in October 1969.

Additionally, a significant piece belonging to Buzz Aldrin is currently up for auction, with expectations to fetch at least $155,000. This showcases the increasing value placed on authentic artifacts from space missions.

The piece, which belonged to Aldrin, is now up for auction and expected to fetch at least $155,000.
The piece, which belonged to Aldrin, is now up for auction and expected to fetch at least $155,000.

Another fascinating artifact includes one of the two remaining gold models of the Lunar Module, which was gifted to Michael Collins. After being purchased back at auction in 2003, it now resides in Cartier’s collection. Notably, the model associated with Armstrong was stolen from a museum in July 2017 and is yet to be recovered, further highlighting the intrigue surrounding these artifacts.

One of the two remaining models, the one donated to Collins, is part of Cartier's collection as it was purchased back at auction in 2003.
One of the two remaining models, the one donated to Collins, is part of Cartier’s collection as it was purchased back at auction in 2003. The one belonging to Armstrong was stolen from a museum in July 2017 and is still missing.

In a unique twist, the Figaro newspaper played a role in the history of these models by soliciting contributions from readers to cover the construction costs. The names of all donors are preserved on a microfilm, uniquely hidden in a secret compartment, adding an element of mystery to the piece.

The Figaro newspaper asked for contributions from its readers to cover construction costs. The names of all donors are saved on a microfilm which is hidden in a secret compartment.
The Figaro newspaper asked for contributions from its readers to cover construction costs. The names of all donors are saved on a microfilm which is hidden in a secret compartment.

In conclusion, the upcoming auction by iBestTravel presents a wealth of historical artifacts, each carrying profound significance and value. For those passionate about space exploration, this is an unmissable opportunity to engage with items that helped shape our understanding of the universe.


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