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NASA
Approves Designs for Columbia Commemorative
For the first
time, NASA has officially approved designs for a commemorative
medal honoring the crew of the "Columbia." The ill-fated
shuttle was launched into space on January 16, 2003 and disintegrated
16 minutes prior to its scheduled landing on February 1.
The
stunning 5 oz. pure silver commemorative was created by award-winning
medallist Alex Shagin. Seven bright stars symbolize the Mission
Commander, Colonel Rick Husband, Pilot William ("Willie")
McCool, Payload Commander Michael Anderson, and Specialists
Kalpana Chawla, David Brown, Laurel Clark, and Ilan Ramon,
Israel's first astronaut. The emotional words spoken by Colonel
Husband following the Challenger disaster now ironically apply
to him and his crew: "They made the ultimate sacrifice
giving their lives to their country and mankind."
The
familiar logo of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
is featured on the reverse, with a blazing sun in the background.
The surrounding inscription is: "United States of America
· Columbia · Mission STS 107" and the year
2003. The large 2 ½ inch diameter commemorative is
minted in gem proof quality from 5 troy oz. of pure (999 fine)
silver. The silver content and an individual serial number
are indicated on the edge. Included is a certificate of authenticity.
The
Columbia Tribute Commemoratives are available at the official
issue price of $89 exclusively from PandaAmerica, 3460 Torrance
Blvd., Suite 100, Torrance, CA 90503. Add $5.50 per order
for shipping and Insurance. Credit card orders can be placed
by calling (800) 472-6327 or e-mailing info@pandaamerica.com.
Click here
to shop online.
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Prepared by Mel Wacks
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