Original vintage signed pencil sketch of the design for the Friendship 7 launch crew lapel pin on an off-white 8.5 x 11 sheet. Design shows a Mercury spacecraft orbiting the earth, with “Friendship 7" in the same lettering as that painted on the actual spacecraft with "Launch Crew" printed on the top part of the large "7." The actual launch date of "Feb. 20, 1962" is written along the orbital path. Signed in the lower right corner by the pin’s designers Charlie Beatty, Joe D. Trammel, and George W. Baldwin. This design was used in the making of the pin and also featured on a dinner dance flyer in honor of John Glenn and the astronaut team, a copy of which is included. In fine condition, with a uniform shade of mild toning. A visually striking and unique item from the beginning of the space age. Provenance: Superior Galleries, May 2001. RRAuction COA.
