Title:
U.S. $1 Federal Reserve Note Hand-Signed by Gordon Cooper – PSA/DNA Certified AUTHENTIC

Description:
Offered here is an original Series 2003A U.S. $1 Federal Reserve Note (serial number K55786491N) boldly hand-signed by Mercury-Atlas 9 astronaut Gordon Cooper, one of NASA’s original Mercury Seven. The note bears Cooper’s distinctive autograph in black ink prominently across the left portion of the bill, intersecting the green serial number. The bill is encapsulated and certified by PSA/DNA, graded AUTHENTIC with certification number 86533167, ensuring the signature's legitimacy. Housed in a tamper-evident PSA slab, the note remains in clean, crisp condition with bright inks and strong paper integrity.

Historical Context:
Leroy Gordon "Gordo" Cooper Jr. (1927–2004) was one of the United States’ first astronauts and a pioneering figure in early American space exploration. As a member of the original Mercury Seven selected by NASA in 1959, Cooper piloted the Mercury-Atlas 9 mission in 1963, becoming the last astronaut to fly solo in space. His 22-orbit mission marked a critical milestone in the Mercury Program, proving that humans could endure extended periods in orbit. He later commanded the Gemini 5 mission in 1965, helping to validate systems critical to the upcoming Apollo program. Known for his maverick spirit and deep commitment to the space race, Cooper became an iconic figure of Cold War-era innovation and exploration. His autograph on a U.S. currency note reflects a tradition among astronauts and collectors of commemorating milestones with symbolic American items.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Encapsulated and certified by PSA/DNA

• PSA/DNA Certification #: 86533167

• Label reads: CURRENCY / GORDON COOPER / PSA/DNA CERTIFIED / AUTHENTIC

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This hand-signed $1 note offers collectors an extraordinary intersection of American numismatics and space history. Gordon Cooper’s signature elevates the value of this otherwise ordinary banknote into a rare and patriotic artifact—a tangible link to one of the pioneers of American spaceflight. Perfectly preserved in PSA/DNA’s secure encapsulation, this piece is ideal for collectors of astronaut memorabilia, Cold War history, or certified currency signatures.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.