Goldberg Coins & Collectibles in Los Angeles is set to auction a remarkable collection of space memorabilia from the estate of Clark C. McClelland, a NASA aerospace engineer who worked on U.S. space missions for over three decades. The auction held February 27, 2025 features rare items like moon-flown American flags, a complete set of Gemini mission silver medallions originally owned by astronaut Buzz Aldrin, and a signed photograph of Neil Armstrong taken during his historic moonwalk.
McClelland, who served NASA from 1958 to 1992 at Cape Canaveral, the Johnson Space Center, and Area 51, amassed a museum-quality collection during his 34-year career. His work included technical checkouts for the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, Space Shuttle, and Skylab programs. “My father was passionate about NASA and inspiring the next generation in science and engineering,” said Carrie Lane, McClelland’s daughter. Her husband, Russell Lane, added, “He loved our country and the space program, and this collection reflects his dedication.”
A highlight of the auction is a rare set of sterling silver medallions from the Gemini missions (1965–1966), originally owned by Buzz Aldrin, the second person to walk on the moon. Encased in a Lucite block on a wooden base, the set includes medallions from missions GT-3 through GT-12, signed by Aldrin in blue Sharpie. Only 24 such sets exist, making them highly coveted. The auction catalog estimates their value at $9,000–$12,000, noting their significance as a piece of NASA history suitable for elite collectors or museums.
The collection also includes five American flags flown to the moon during Apollo missions, a sixth carried by John Glenn on his first spaceflight, and vintage photographs from nearly 40 missions. A standout is a rare autographed photo of Neil Armstrong from the live broadcast of his first steps on the lunar surface—a moment that captivated the world.
Freeman Fisher, Director of Manuscripts & Collectibles at Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, described the collection as “museum-quality,” emphasizing its historical value. Bidders can participate in person in Los Angeles or online via the auction house’s website. The full catalog is available at auctions.goldbergcoins.com, with printed copies available for $20 (U.S.) or $40 (international).
For more details, contact Goldberg Coins & Collectibles at (310) 551-2646 or freeman@goldbergcoins.com.