Country of Origin: Italy 3-D Test: 5.1cm (2 in.) This Apollo 13
commemorative medal was designed by the Italian sculptor,
Constantino Affer. The high relief on the medal's face and the
absence of much content on the reverse highlight the artist's
intention to make this piece of medallic art work as a miniature
sculpture. The Apollo 13 mission in April 1970 was intended to
be the third to land humans on the Moon. James Lovell, Jr., Fred
Haise, Jr., and John Swigert, Jr. were the astronauts. Over
200,000 miles from the Earth equipment malfunctions forced the
cancellation of the mission, but the astronauts were able to
return safely. Space medal collector Thomas Becker donated this
art medal to the Museum in 1972. Gift of Thomas Becker