Title:
Original 9/11 Ground Zero Photograph – NYPD & Rescue Crews at WTC Collapse Site by Responding NJ Police Officer Mike Coppola, PSA Type III Authenticated

Description:
This original photograph vividly captures the chaos and determination in the immediate aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Taken at Ground Zero, it shows NYPD officers and rescue workers gathered amid dust and debris, facing the still-standing skeletal remains of the World Trade Center’s North Tower façade. The image reflects the early rescue efforts and the resolve of first responders during the most critical hours following the collapse.

Photographed by Mike J. Coppola, a New Jersey police officer, EMT, and volunteer firefighter, this image is printed on Konica photographic paper and measures approximately 5" x 7". It has been authenticated and slabbed by PSA as a Type III photograph, indicating it was developed from the original digital file shortly after the event. The reverse of the image includes Coppola’s printed label with contact information.

Historical Context:
Photographer Mike J. Coppola was not only behind the lens—he was on the front lines. As a New Jersey police officer and member of Metro Fire Radio, a volunteer emergency communications group, he responded to the World Trade Center from New Jersey, arriving with the Jersey City Fire Department just before the collapse of Tower One.

In a powerful firsthand account titled “I Heard the Snap of the Tower” (published in Police Magazine, October 31, 2001), Coppola recalled:

“We began taking photos. Our original purpose was to document the operation, knowing how many people were working there. Then we heard the sound. Tower One began to crack at the seams from the heat of the jet fuel fire. Then came the snap—the final breaking point. There was no time to think, only to run.”

After narrowly escaping the collapse, Coppola returned to assist with rescue and documentation efforts:

“We updated Metro as soon as we could and went right back to work—putting out even more fires and dodging exploding cars. We photographed what we could, when we could. On that day, I saw heroes in action, and they were all around me.”

This photograph represents that moment—when courage triumphed over chaos, and first responders began the monumental task of saving lives and stabilizing the scene.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
PSA/DNA has authenticated this image as a Type III Photograph, meaning it was printed from the original digital file within two years of the event.

• PSA Certification Number: 85673648

• PSA red label reads:
  "DIGITAL PRINTED PHOTOGRAPH / AFTERMATH OF 9/11 ATTACK / GROUND ZERO/WORLD TRADE CENTER / MIKE J. COPPOLA"

• Reverse includes photographer’s printed label with name, contact information, and website: www.metrofireradio.com

• 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 PSA-authenticated photograph is a striking piece of visual history, taken by a police officer who risked his life to both serve and document the unfolding events of 9/11. It reflects the bravery, loss, and unity that defined Ground Zero in its earliest moments. Ideal for collectors of modern American history, emergency service memorabilia, and 9/11 artifacts, this image offers a solemn and powerful tribute to those who answered the call.

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.

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