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NASA & Air Force Vintage Flight Helmets (Two), Directly From the Estate of Al Crews ... (Total: 2 Items)
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Sold on Dec 12, 2025 for:
$1,062.50
Bid Source: Internet bidder
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Description
NASA & Air Force Vintage Flight Helmets (Two), Directly From the Estate of Al Crews A fine pair of authentic U.S. flight helmets illustrating the evolution of pilot headgear from the early space-race era through the modern jet age. The earlier example, the Columbus Milpar HGU-2A/P, is directly linked to NASA research and astronaut-training operations, while the later Gentex HGU-55/P represents the mature lightweight design that remains in front-line use today. The HGU-2A/P embodies the early jet and space-support era, when Air Force and NASA test pilots shared equipment, aircraft, and personnel. It features a label on the back stating: "Crews". Its mint-green shell became iconic of mid-1960s flight operations supporting Project Gemini and the early Apollo flights. By contrast, the Gentex HGU-55/P represents the refined, lightweight composite era of high-g flight, compatible with heads-up displays and advanced ejection systems. Albert H. Crews Jr. was selected for both the X-20 Dyna-Soar and Manned Orbiting Laboratory programs. He represents the "would-have-been" era: highly trained astronaut-pilots who never flew but were essential to development of spaceplane/space station concepts. Heavy age and use related wear to the Columbus Milpar example, light scratching to the Gentex example.Auction Info
2025 December 11 - 12 Space Exploration Signature® Auction #6326 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
December, 2025
11th-12th
Thursday-Friday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 14
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 190
Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% of the successful bid per lot.
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