Lot 19
Mercury Program, 1962, "Jose, the Reluctant Astronaut" Presentation Photo (7x9.5", matted to 11x14") This color photo on marbled paper depicts Bill Dana as Jose, the Reluctant Astronaut. He is dressed in Gordon Cooper's Mercury spacesuit holding his helmet, with a Mercury launch in the background. The portrait was hung in Bill's honor, at the Ramada Inn (no longer in existence), opposite the gates of NASA (Johnson Spacecraft Center) at Clearlake outside of Houston, TX. Note the "leetle" mouse inside the helmet. This mouse became famous when John Glenn, during his flight, opened his kit and a tethered toy mouse floated up to John's delight. John still has the mouse as a treasured possession.
This presentation photo (minor faults and somewhat aged) was presented to Bill at the time the full length portrait was unveiled in Clearlake. Also included are a similar NASA 8x10" color reproduction photo on Kodak paper and a black and white photo of Bill and the poster in the hotel lobby of the hotel (on vintage Agfa paper). The consignor advises he is willing to personally autograph the reproduction color and/or black and white photos at the buyer's option. An attractive piece of nostalgia.
Estimated Value $250 - 350.
Ex. the comedian Bill Dana/Jose Jimenez collection.
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