Lunar orbit flown ablative heat shield plug removed from the Apollo 12 Command Module Yankee Clipper, measuring .75″ x .5″ x .5″, and accompanied by a typed letter signed by Charles D. Anderson, manager of Apollo 12 recovery operations, one page, 8.5 x 11, dated November 12, 1989, in part: “Immediately after Apollo spacecraft recovery, one of my responsibilities was the removal of several Command Module heat shield panels to power down and safety the electrical and propellant systems. The panels were held in place with stainless steel screws which were protected by phenolic resin ablative plugs. The enclosed plug came from the heat shield of Apollo 12 on November 24, 1969, after a successful recovery in the South Pacific Ocean. I certify that this plug has been around the moon.” In fine condition, with tape remnants to letter, on which the plug was originally affixed.
