Title:
Type I Original Photograph – Nagasaki Aftermath of Atomic Bombing – c.1945–46 – PSA Certified – Cert #85485424

Description:
This is a powerful Type I original photograph capturing the haunting aftermath of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki, Japan, during World War II. Developed circa 1945–46, this black-and-white snapshot measures approximately 3.25" x 2.5" and offers a panoramic view of the flattened cityscape, strewn with debris and reduced to ruins. In the background, the Nagasaki hills stand in stark contrast to the foreground destruction, emphasizing the magnitude of the devastation. Faint handwritten markings appear near the top of the image, possibly period notations. The photo maintains strong visual contrast and clarity, with deckled edges and a clean reverse marked “75.” Authenticated and encapsulated by PSA, it carries certification number 85485424.

Historical Context:
The atomic bombing of Nagasaki on August 9, 1945, was the second and final use of nuclear weapons in warfare. Dropped just days after the first bomb destroyed Hiroshima, the bombing of Nagasaki caused immense destruction and loss of life, resulting in approximately 40,000–75,000 immediate deaths and countless others from radiation exposure. Photographs like this one were typically taken by U.S. military personnel, journalists, or relief workers in the immediate postwar period and developed shortly after, classifying them as Type I photographs—original prints made from the negative during the period of the event. These images are among the most authentic and historically valuable visual records of the nuclear age’s beginnings.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
This artifact is authenticated and encapsulated by PSA, the foremost authority in photo authentication and historical memorabilia.

• Certification Number: 85485424

• PSA Label: "TYPE I / AUTHENTIC / ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPH / NAGASAKI / AFTERMATH OF ATOMIC BOMBING / C.1945–46 / SNAPSHOT"

• Housed in a PSA tamper-evident holder ensuring preservation and archival integrity.

• 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 original Type I photograph from the ruins of Nagasaki offers an unfiltered and authentic view into one of the most consequential events of the 20th century. As both a historical document and a visually striking artifact, it serves as a solemn reminder of the costs of war and the dawn of the nuclear age. An extraordinary piece for collectors of WWII, military history, or documentary photography.

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.