Charles Lindbergh Signed Flown Airmail Cover Carried on Sikorsky S-42 Flight

Sikorsky S-42 First Flight Airmail Cover Signed by Charles Lindbergh, Boris Sergievsky & Edwin Musick — PSA/DNA Certified

Description:

Rare airmail cover flown aboard the record-setting August 1, 1934, test flight of the Sikorsky S-42 Pan American Clipper. Measuring 9.5 x 4 inches, the envelope is postmarked from Bridgeport, Connecticut, and features the red stamped inscription "GIANT SIKORSKY S.42" alongside the printed marking, "This Letter Actually Carried on Record Flight." Addressed to Dr. A. S. Griswold, the cover is signed vertically in fountain pen by three aviation pioneers:

• Charles A. Lindbergh (Pan Am Technical Advisor), dated "Aug. 1, 1934"

• Boris Sergievsky (Sikorsky Chief Test Pilot)

• Edwin Musick (Pan Am Chief Pilot)

In fine condition, the envelope remains vibrant with bold signatures and sharp postal markings. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder for preservation and certification.

Historical Context:

On August 1, 1934, Pan American World Airways undertook a pivotal test flight of the new Sikorsky S-42 long-range flying boat, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of transoceanic air travel. Designed by aviation innovator Igor Sikorsky, the S-42 was a marvel of engineering, intended to revolutionize commercial air routes over oceans.

For this crucial demonstration, Pan Am assembled an elite crew: Charles Lindbergh, famed for his 1927 solo transatlantic flight, served as Technical Advisor; Boris Sergievsky, legendary test pilot and World War I ace, piloted the aircraft; and Edwin Musick, Pan Am’s Chief Pilot, commanded the flight. Together, they flew a challenging 1,242-mile course, carrying the weight equivalent of 32 passengers, a crew of five, and 2,000 pounds of mail and cargo.

The S-42 averaged 157.5 MPH, achieving eight world records in speed, payload, and altitude during this flight. This performance confirmed the S-42’s suitability for long-range operations, leading to its historic role in pioneering Pan Am’s transoceanic routes across the Atlantic and Pacific.

Authentication & Encapsulation:

• PSA/DNA Certified Authentic Auto

• Certification Number: 84846983

• Encapsulated in a PSA holder ensuring preservation, with a clearly labeled side panel identifying the item and signature authentication.

Closing Appeal:

This airmail cover is a superb artifact of aviation history, personally signed by three titans of early flight. Representing a landmark moment in Pan American Airways' expansion into global air travel, it combines historical significance, visual appeal, and authenticated provenance. A prized addition for collectors of Lindbergh memorabilia, Pan Am history, and early aviation achievements.