Yuri Gagarin Worn Vostok 1 Space Suit & Signed Postcard. Incredible Provenance

Title:
Yuri Gagarin Signed Portrait with SK-1 Spacesuit Swatch – Direct Provenance from Vostok 1, Removed by Oleg Ivanovsky

Description:
Fascinating display featuring a boldly signed color postcard of Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin—the first human in space—professionally double-matted in navy and silver alongside a vivid orange 1" x 1" swatch of SK-1 spacesuit material. Gagarin has signed vertically in blue ink along the left margin of the portrait, which shows him in full Soviet Air Force uniform, decorated with various medals including the Hero of the Soviet Union star. The spacesuit swatch, mounted below the signed postcard, is identified in the accompanying Certificate of Authenticity as originating from the material that covered the mirror on the sleeve of Gagarin's suit. It was personally removed by Oleg Ivanovsky, the Vostok Program Director, in the capsule prior to Gagarin’s historic April 12, 1961 launch aboard Vostok 1. Display measures approximately 7.75" x 14.25". In fine condition overall, with a strong, clear signature.

Historical Context:
On April 12, 1961, Yuri Gagarin made history as the first human to travel into space aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft. His single orbit around the Earth marked a monumental milestone in human achievement and a Cold War-era triumph for the Soviet Union in the Space Race. The orange SK-1 pressure suit Gagarin wore for launch has since become an icon of early manned spaceflight. This display includes a piece of that very suit—specifically the material covering the mirror on the sleeve—which Gagarin wore as he ascended the gantry to his spacecraft. The piece was removed by Oleg Ivanovsky, the chief designer and director of the Vostok program, who personally supervised Gagarin’s preflight procedures. This artifact offers a direct, physical connection to the moment that ushered humanity into the era of space exploration.

Authentication:
Accompanied by a provenance packet explicitly stating that the SK-1 spacesuit swatch was personally removed by Oleg Ivanovsky from Gagarin’s suit prior to the Vostok 1 launch on April 12, 1961, and a copy of the swatch of the suit removed by Ivanovsky which he signed.

• 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 remarkable display brings together two extraordinary elements: a boldly signed portrait of Yuri Gagarin and a genuine swatch from his SK-1 spacesuit with direct provenance to the historic Vostok 1 mission. With a clear signature, direct association to the world’s first spaceflight, and provenance tied to Oleg Ivanovsky himself, this piece represents a singular opportunity for collectors of space history and Cold War-era memorabilia. It offers not only visual appeal but also an unmatched connection to one of humanity’s greatest achievements.

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.