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Wally Schirra ‘Gotcha’ Ignition Key

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Autographs Start Price:NA Estimated At:2,000.00 - 4,000.00 USD
Wally Schirra ‘Gotcha’ Ignition Key

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Auction Date:2013 Nov 21 @ 18:00 (UTC-05:00 : EST/CDT)
Location:5 Rt 101A Suite 5, Amherst, New Hampshire, 03031, United States
ALS - Autograph Letter Signed
ANS - Autograph Note Signed
AQS - Autograph Quotation Signed
AMQS - Autograph Musical Quotation Signed
DS - Document Signed
FDC - First Day Cover
Inscribed - “Personalized”
ISP - Inscribed Signed Photograph
LS - Letter Signed
SP - Signed Photograph
TLS - Typed Letter Signed
Launch day ‘gotcha’ prank executed by space craft technicians on Schirra the day of his Mercury launch This practical joke consists of the Hand Controller Lock Safety Pin, which measures 6? long with a small push button release at the top. This pin has been fitted with a key ignition system taken from an old automobile, including a key attached to a leather carrying case, monogrammed with Schirra’s initials on one side, and the Mercury 7 logo on the reverse. The safety pin retains its red fabric flag with the metal McDonnell/NASA parts tag at the top, labelled “Pin Hand Controller Lock Safety.” In fine condition. Well-known for his ‘gotchas,’ including smuggling a corned beef sandwich onto Gemini 3, this time the joke was on Schirra.