Yuri Gagarin’s space diploma issued by the Central Radio Club of the Soviet Union for the first space-to-Earth two-way radio communication via ultra shortwaves, 8.75 x 12, dated May 5, 1961, signed in the lower portion by Ernst Krenkel, the first chairman of the CCR. In fine condition. A unique item given that all awards to Gagarin were seized by the government, making this one of only two known examples in private hands. The addition of the Krenkel signature is likewise quite exceptional; as a Soviet Arctic explorer and radio operator, Krenkel explored the Arctic on a variety of airships and steamships, and set a world record by establishing a long-distance radio communication between Franz Josef Land and Antarctica.