Gauntlet Gallery vs RR Auction for Space Memorabilia
RR Auction is the dominant name in space memorabilia auctions. Gauntlet Gallery is a curated direct-sale source for authenticated NASA and Apollo program autographs and artifacts. This comparison helps collectors understand when each source makes sense.
What RR Auction Does Well
RR Auction holds regular space memorabilia auctions and has built an extraordinary archive of consigned material — mission-flown hardware, one-of-a-kind crew items, and signed photographs from nearly every NASA program. Their specialist team is among the deepest in the field. If you are seeking ultra-rare, museum-quality flown hardware, RR Auction's auction pipeline is unmatched.
The Cost of Bidding at Auction
RR Auction charges a buyer's premium of approximately 23–25% on all lots. On a $3,000 Buzz Aldrin signed photograph, that is $690–$750 in fees before shipping and insurance. You also face competitive bidding — the price you win at may be significantly higher than the estimate if other collectors want the same piece.
Gauntlet Gallery lists authenticated space memorabilia at fixed prices with no buyer's premium. The price listed is the price paid.
Authentication: Zarelli Space at Both Sources
Both RR Auction and Gauntlet Gallery use Zarelli Space Authentication for Apollo astronaut autographs. Steve Zarelli is the recognized authority for NASA program signatures — his authentication is the gold standard accepted by every major auction house and dealer in the field.
When Gauntlet Gallery lists a Buzz Aldrin or Apollo crew autograph, it carries Zarelli authentication documentation. The same authentication standard used by RR Auction, without the auction premium.
What Is Available at Each
RR Auction: Strongest for mission-flown hardware, crew-personal items, and archival photographs. These consigned pieces are rare and cycle through auction on a schedule.
Gauntlet Gallery: Curated inventory of Zarelli-authenticated astronaut autographs, signed NASA photographs, mission patches, and space-flown flags with documentation. Available immediately at fixed prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the buyer's premium at RR Auction?
RR Auction's buyer's premium is approximately 23–25% of the hammer price on all lots. This is charged in addition to the winning bid amount.
Does Gauntlet Gallery have Zarelli-authenticated pieces?
Yes. All Gauntlet Gallery Apollo and NASA autographs are authenticated by Zarelli Space Authentication or equivalent specialist services, with original authentication certificates included.
What NASA autographs are most valuable?
Apollo 11 crew signatures (Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Michael Collins) are the most valuable. Neil Armstrong signed very selectively in his later years, making pre-1990 Armstrong autographs particularly rare. Buzz Aldrin remains active in signing but authenticated examples still command significant premiums. Gauntlet Gallery carries Zarelli-authenticated examples.
What is a NASA flown flag?
A NASA flown flag is an American or mission flag that was carried aboard a NASA spacecraft during a mission. Authenticity requires a flight certification letter from NASA or the crewmember. Gauntlet Gallery provides complete flight documentation for all flown artifacts in inventory.
