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Rare Cover Byrd’s First Antarctic Expedition
BYRD, Richard E. (1888-1957). American polar explorer and aviator. On his first Antarctic expedition he discovered the North Pole from the air. Rear admiral Richard E. Byrd was known as a pioneering American aviator, polar explorer, and organizer of polar logistics. His first Antarctic expedition of 1928-30, recounted in his 1938 book Alone, established a well-equipped base in Antarctica, dubbed “Little America.” Following his first expedition to Antarctica, Byrd was eager to return, as a great deal of the expansive continent was left undiscovered and undocumented. He returned to the United States on the U.S.S. New York. Very scarce cover welcoming Admiral Byrd home from his discovery from air of the South Pole, Nov. 2,1929.
Cachet of a head and shoulders pose of Admiral Byrd. A Massachusetts Bay Colony US 2-cent postage stamp cancelled S.S. New York JUN 19,1930. The U.S.S. New York was Byrd’s supply ship. In addition is a rubber stamp of the Byrd Antarctic Expedition. On the verso is a rubber stamp of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, Official Dedication by Rear Admiral Richard Byrd of Floyd Bennett Municipal Airport June 28, 1930. Boldly hand signed R.E. Byrd.
A very scarce signed cover in fine condition. This cover sold for $500 in Aug.9, 1996.........$950.00
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