Lot #208

Command Module Safety Lock

Description

Crucial Apollo command module safety lock, used on every mission

Mission-used Apollo Command Safety Module lock originally from the personal collection of Guenter Wendt. This heavy metal screw type lock and key, measures approximately 2 x 2, marked “ASSY V36-761903-103-67-NC,” and is signed on the side in black felt tip, “Guenter F. Wendt Padleader.” Accompanied by a handwritten letter of provenance from Wendt which reads, in full: “This lock covered the escape rocket arming switches and was the last item removed before closing the hatch for flight. The key was in the possession of the pad leader (me) to prevent premature activation of the escape system during tests. G. Wendt. This item was used on all Apollo flights after rocket igniter installation and hook-up.” Also accompanied by a photo of Wendt taken at time of signing.

This lock and key was used to protect the arming switches of the Launch Escape Tower. This lock covered the lever lock-type PYRO ARM switches A and B on Panel 8, to the left of the commander’s seat and safeguarded against accidental premature arming of the pyro busses of the escape system during tests. The escape booster was the last resort for emergency escape for the three crewman before, during, or shortly after lift-off.

This unique item is quite possibly the only common instrument panel piece that was actually used on every Apollo flight. Wendt would have handed this key to Apollo Commanders Borman, McDivitt, Stafford, Armstrong, Conrad, Lovell, Shepard, Scott, Young, and Cernan. In fine condition. Pre-certified Steve Zarelli and RR Auction COA.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Space
• Dates: #386 - Ended May 23, 2012

This item is Pre-Certified by STEVE ZARELLI
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