A rare collection of space artifacts, a set of highly prized Gemini space mission medallions, will soon go up for auction. These medallions, flown on Gemini missions in 1965 and 1966, were once held by astronaut Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin. The collection belonged to the late NASA engineer Clark C. McClelland and will be auctioned by Goldberg Coins & Collectibles on February 27, 2025, in Los Angeles and online.
Gemini Space Mission Medallions: A Piece of History
One of the most unique things in this auction is a complete set of Gemini sterling silver medallions. Only 24 of these sets exist, and they were made for astronauts who participated in the Gemini missions. These medallions were manufactured by Fliteline and are shown in a Lucite holder with a wooden base.
The set being auctioned is especially important because it was formerly held by Buzz Aldrin, the second person to walk on the moon. He even autographed the wooden base of the display, making this a very historic and valuable thing.
The plaque on the Lucite holder reads:
“THESE COMMEMORATIVE MEDALLIONS WERE FLOWN ON EACH OF THEIR RESPECTIVE FLIGHTS.”
Auction Lot Details
- Lot Number: 1253
- Description: Complete set of flown Gemini medallions from GT-3 through GT-12
- Owner: Previously owned by Buzz Aldrin
- Signature: Buzz Aldrin signed in blue Sharpie on the wooden base
- Estimated Value: $9,000 – $12,000
This medallion set is a rare and museum-worthy part of space history that will appeal to serious collectors and organizations alike.
McClelland, Clark C.: A Committed Engineer at NASA
An Approximately Three-Decade Career
Honorable NASA Spacecraft Operator (ScO) Clark C. McClelland (1936–2021) contributed 34 years to the space program. He started taking part in space missions in 1958 and continued to do this until 1992.
McClelland participated in hundreds of manned and unmanned space shuttle and Mercury Gemini, Apollo, and Skylab missions.
He was in charge of supervising technical checkouts for simulating flights and making sure that everything performed well.
Work at NASA’s Major Centers
McClelland’s contributions extended to numerous NASA facilities:
- Cape Canaveral, Florida – An essential site for NASA’s launches
- Johnson Space Center, Texas – Home to astronaut training and mission control
- Area 51, Nevada – A highly classified site where he was involved in secret projects
His work helped shape the future of space exploration, making his collection of artifacts even more significant.
Other Prominent Space Artifacts Available for Auction
There are more than simply medallions up for sale. It contains a range of historical space memorials, including:
1. Neil Armstrong’s rare autographed photo
Neil Armstrong’s autographed picture from the live broadcast of his first lunar landing
One of the world’s popular signatures from astronauts
2. Old NASA Photos
A collection of around 40 space missions of museum-grade
Includes genuine images from the Apollo, Gemini, and Mercury projects.
3. Models of Aerospace Contractor Rockets
Aerospace businesses used detailed scale models for NASA’s initial flights.
4. American flags flown
Five American flags that visited and replaced from the moon
On his first space flight, John Glenn carried one flag.
These relics demonstrate McClelland’s close relationship to NASA and the space exploration period.
Family Award: McClelland’s Heritage
McClelland’s family members shared their thoughts on his dedication to NASA and space exploration.
His daughter Carrie Lane said:
“My father worked on hundreds of space missions. His work took him to Cape Canaveral, the Johnson Space Center, and even Area 51. He was passionate about space and liked to encourage future generations.”
His son-in-law Russell Lane added:
“He loved our country, NASA, and the space program. He made every effort to encourage young people to look for careers in science and engineering.
McClelland’s collection embodies his lifelong dedication to space exploration in addition to historical artifacts.
How Can Participate in Auction?
Interested collectors and space enthusiasts can participate in the auction:
- Attend the auction in Los Angeles
- Bid online via Goldberg Coins & Collectibles
Auction Inforamtion:
- Date of Auction: February 27, 2025
- Auction Organizer : Goldberg Coins & Collectibles
- Auction Location: Los Angeles & Online
- Website For Auction: www.GoldbergCoins.com
- Contact Detail:
- Phone Number: (310) 551-2646
- Email: freeman@goldbergcoins.com
The full auction catalog is available online at auctions.goldbergcoins.com/m/view-auctions/catalog/id/119.
Printed copies of the catalog you can be ordered for:
- $20 (U.S. orders)
- $40 (International orders)
Conclusion
This auction presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of space history. From Buzz Aldrin’s Gemini medallions to flown American flags and astronaut autographs, the collection describes America’s journey into space.
This is a rare opportunity to earn authentic artifacts from NASA’s golden age for collectors, museums, and space enthusiasts.