Crew Patch reference guide

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	Although this site is really dedicated to the patches produced for NASA crewed space flights there is a category of naval patches that are directly related to the Gemini and Apollo missions - those produced to commemorate the recovery operations. Some of the recovery patches were produced for the crews of the ships involved in the operations by traditional naval patch manufacturers such as Hilborn Hamburger and like most naval patches these tend to be larger than the usual 4" space mission examples. Others were produced unofficially in small runs by crew members of the ships involved in the operations. It's important to be aware that numerous replicas have been produced of these patches over the years so collectors need to be careful not to mistake these for originals. Below I have tried to identify the main recovery patches and some of the known replicas, with the originals on the left and the replicas listed in the right hand column. With many thanks to Ben Guttery, Rick McElvaney, Colin Burgess, Kevin Randall, Butch Wilks and Donnis Willis for their invaluable help in compiling this information.

Gemini Mission Recovery Ship Patches


Patch id:	Gemini 3 recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This patch, seen in the USS Intrepid ship museum, commemorates the recovery of the Gemini 3 by USS Intrepid CVS-11.


Patch id:	USS Wasp Gemini recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Hilborn Hamburger
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5" / 127mm
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Examples have sold recently for $59 to $1705^[1]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of the Gemini 4, 6 & 7 missions by USS Wasp CVS-18.


Patch id:	USS Wasp Gemini recovery patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 4½" / 114mm high
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This is a replica version of the Gemini recovery USS Wasp patch.


Patch id:	USS Wasp Gemini recovery patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This is another replica version of the Gemini recovery USS Wasp patch.


Patch id:	Gemini 4 Pacific recovery force patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 3½ x 4" ; 89 x 102mm
Type:	Fully-embroidered. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	An example sold recently at $220^[2]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the Pacific recovery force for the Gemini 4 mission. The design looks like one from a commemorative cover from the time.


Patch id:	Gemini 4 Atlantic recovery force patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	It's unclear from whether this design commemorating the Atlantic recovery force for the Gemini 4 mission was actually produced as a patch or not. The design itself looks like one from a commemorative cover from the time.


Patch id:	Gemini 2/5 recovery force patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	4" x 5" (102x127mm)
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare
Value:	Examples have sold recently for $321^[3]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery force for the Gemini 2 and 5 missions and appears to be contemporary with the Gemini 5 mission.


Patch id:	Gemini 2/5 recovery force Randy Hunt replica patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5"
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This is a replica of the patch on the left, produced by Randy Hunt (4gator).


Patch id:	Gemini 2/5 recovery vessel patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	4⅛ x 5⅛" ; 105 x 131mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare
Value:	Examples have sold recently for $79 to $179^[3]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery vessel for the Gemini 2 and 5 missions - CVS-39 U.S.S. Lake Champlain - as opposed to the recovery force commemorated by the design above.


Patch id:	Gemini 5 pickup recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	3 x 3¾" ; 78 x 97mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on black twill. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare
Value:	An example sold recently at $186.60^[4]

Notes:	This patch appears to commemorate the recovery of Gemini 5, although the "GTP 5" designation is ambiguous. I've only seen this one example sold and the hand-written code on the back may indicate this is a pre-production sample - possibly one that wasn't put into full production.


Patch id:	Gemini 6 recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	An example sold recently at $153.50^[5]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the Pacific recovery force vessel USS Rupertus, deployed for the Gemini 6 mission. The design looks like one from a commemorative cover of the time.


Patch id:	Gemini 6 recovery patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 3½ x 4"
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	An example sold recently at $151.49^[5]

Notes:	Apparently based on the same commemorative cover design as the patch on the left, this patch is noteworthy for the fact that the "GTA-6" text at top right has been executed as "GTA-G". This patch is believed to be a modern replica.


Patch id:	Gemini 7 recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	An example sold recently at $156^[6]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the Pacific recovery force vessel USS Rupertus, deployed for the Gemini 7 mission. The design looks like one from a commemorative cover from the time.


Patch id:	Gemini 8 / Apollo 1 recovery force patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	4⅝ x 4⅛" ; 118 x 105mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on twill. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare
Value:	Examples sold recently at $181.50 & $301^[7]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery force for the Gemini 8 and Apollo 1 flights, with the Apollo 1 designation referring in this case to the first uncrewed Apollo test flight. We've now seen two example sold, both with the same hand-written code on the back.


Patch id:	Gemini 8 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This patch commemorating the recovery of Gemini 8 by USS Leonard F. Mason is a replica produced by Randy Hunt. It is not clear if an original patch design exists or if this is just a 'fantasy' design.


Patch id:	Gemini 10 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5"
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This patch commemorating the recovery of Gemini 10 by USS Guadalcanal is a modern replica produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). It is not clear if an original patch design exists or if this is just a 'fantasy' design.


Patch id:	Gemini 11 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5"
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This patch commemorating the recovery of Gemini 11 by USS Guam is a replica produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). It is not clear if an original patch design exists or whether this is just a 'fantasy' design.


Patch id:	Gemini 11 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5"
Type:	Unknown
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This patch commemorating the recovery of Gemini 12 by USS Wasp is a modern replica produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). It is not clear if an original patch design exists or whether this is just a 'fantasy' design.

Apollo Mission Recovery Ship Patches


Patch id:	Apollo 7 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This patch commemorating the recovery of Apollo 7 by USS Essex is a modern replica produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). It is not clear if an original patch design exists or whether this is just a 'fantasy' design.


Patch id:	Apollo 8 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This patch commemorating the recovery of Apollo 8 by USS Yorktown CVS-10 is a modern replica produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). It is not clear if an original patch design exists or whether this is just a 'fantasy' design.


Patch id:	Apollo 9 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Fully embroidered. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This patch commemorating the recovery of Apollo 9 by USS Guadalcanal LPH-7 is a modern replica produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). It is not clear if an original patch design exists or whether this is just a 'fantasy' design.


Patch id:	Apollo 10 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Fully embroidered. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This patch commemorating the recovery of Apollo 10 by USS Princeton LPH-5 is a modern replica produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). It is not clear if an original patch design exists or whether this is just a 'fantasy' design.


Patch id:	Apollo 10 USS Princeton recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Sold on the ship
Dimensions:	4 x 4 1/8" / 100 x 106mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare, around 100 made.
Value:	An example sold recently for $124^[8]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Apollo 10 by USS Princeton LPH-5. It was designed by a crew member in the ship's Public Affairs Office - Jared Wickware - who remembers that perhaps 100 examples were produced, possibly in the Philippines. Like many commemorative recovery patches they were not an official product, and were likely paid for and sold by him directly.


Patch id:	Apollo 10 USS Princeton recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This is a replica version of the Apollo 10 USS Princeton LPH-5 recovery patch, produced by Randy Hunt (4gator).


Patch id:	Apollo 11 recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5½" / 141mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Merrowed edge with tail.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	An example sold recently for $170^[6]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Apollo 11 by USS Hornet CVS-12. Modern replicas of this patch exist.


Patch id:	Apollo 11 recovery patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5" / 127mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Commercially available.
Value:	On sale for approx $7.

Notes:	This replica has visible yellow threads joining the lettering and discs in the outer ring to the inner border thread. This replica also lacks the distinct inner borders in the ship, helicopter and plane present in the vintage version at lower left.


Patch id:	Apollo 11 recovery patch variant

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx. 5½" / 141mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	Unknown.^[9]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Apollo 11 by USS Hornet CVS-12. This particular version was part of presentation made to Jerome B. Hammack (Director of the Landing and Recovery Division at MSC) in November 1969^[7]. It differs from the version above in that the yellow discs in the outer border are very small, and the ship, helicopter and plane have a distinct inner border.


Patch id:	Apollo 11 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5½" / 140mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Was commercially available.
Value:	Was originally sold at $12.50

Notes:	This replica was produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). It can be distinguished from both of the original versions on the left by the distinctly layered superstructure on the carrier.


Patch id:	Apollo 12 recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5" / 126mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Merrowed edge with tail.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	An example sold recently for $199.^[11]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Apollo 12 by USS Hornet CVS-12. Note that the spacecraft and inner border on this version are in orange thread while the outer border is in yellow thread.


Patch id:	Apollo 12 recovery patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5" / 127mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Commercially available.
Value:	On sale for approx. $7.

Notes:	This replica version of the Apollo 12 recovery patch can be distinguished from the originals by the slightly larger moon with a distinct inner border.


Patch id:	Apollo 12 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx. 5¼" / 131mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Was commercially available.
Value:	Was originally sold at $12.50

Notes:	This replica version of the Apollo 12 recovery patch was produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). It can be distinguished from the originals by the chunkier text (especially visible in the "USS").


Patch id:	Apollo 12 recovery patch variant

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5" / 126mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on blue twill. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	Unknown.

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Apollo 12 by USS Hornet CVS-12. This particular version was part of presentation made to Jerome B. Hammack (Director of the Landing and Recovery Division at MSC) in November 1969^[9]. It differs from the version above in that it has orange thread in both the inner and outer borders and the superstructure has a rounded left hand end.


Patch id:	Apollo 12 alternative recovery replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5" (127mm) high
Type:	Fully embroidered, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This alternative design commemorating the Apollo 12 recovery by USS Hornet CVS 12 is clearly a modern creation. It is not clear whether the design is based on a vintage patch or decal or is a purely fantasy creation.


Patch id:	Apollo 13 recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5 x 5¼" / 129 x 133mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on white twill. Merrowed edge?
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	An example sold recently for $134^[12].

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Apollo 13 by USS Iwo Jima LPH-2.


Patch id:	Apollo 13 recovery patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	4½" / 114mm across
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Commercially available.
Value:	On sale for approx. $7.

Notes:	This replica version of the Apollo 13 recovery patch can be distinguished from the original by the bolder text, missing vertical line on the prow of the ship, and the dark blue oceans on the Earth at lower left (the original uses pale blue thread). Other replica versions doubtless exist.


Patch id:	Apollo 13 recovery patch replica 2

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5" across
Type:	Partially embroidered on white twill. Cut edge.
Scarcity:	Commercially available.
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This replica version of the Apollo 13 recovery patch can be distinguished from the original by the missing text on the Command Module. On the original "APOLLO 13" is embroidered in the upper area of the Command Module but in this replica this area just has random black lines. There is also much more spacing around the dash in the "LPH-2" text on this replica.


Patch id:	Apollo 14 recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Likely Hilborn Hamburger
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5" / 127mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	An example sold recently for $107^[13].

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Apollo 14 by USS New Orleans LPH-11. It was most likely produced by Hilborn Hamburger - note the similarity of the border with that of their Skylab II recovery patch below.


Patch id:	Apollo 14 recovery patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	3⅞" / 98mm across
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	Although this patch appears to have a bare cloth back I believe it to be a fairly modern replica due to the fill stitch style apparent in the pale blue area of the background. In any case it only measures four inches across so is not a version of the genuine five inch recovery patch. Other replica versions doubtless exist.


Patch id:	Apollo 14 USS New Orleans patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	4 7/8 x 2" / 125 x 50mm
Type:	Partially embroidered on black twill. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	An example sold recently for $89^[14].

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Apollo 14 by USS New Orleans and was designed for use on caps.


Patch id:	Apollo 15 recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	GEMSCO, INC.
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5 x 5½" / 127 x 139mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	An example sold recently for $310^[15]

Notes:	This patch by GEMSCO. INC., commemorates the recovery of Apollo 15 by USS Okinawa LPH-3.


Patch id:	Apollo 15 recovery patch modern replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Available on eBay
Dimensions:	4⅜ x 4⅞" (110 x 124mm)
Type:	Fully embroidered. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Currently sold for approx $12.

Notes:	This modern replica patch (with plastic backing) is quite nicely executed as the design is very close in appearance to the vintage Gemsco patch. The only major difference is the size, as the replica is significantly smaller than the original.


Patch id:	Apollo 15 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Fully embroidered. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	A replica version of the recovery patch produced by Randy Hunt (4gator), this version is easily identified by the blue border and overall use of darker blue colors.


Patch id:	Apollo 15 USS Okinawa patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Partially embroidered on black twill. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	Unknown.

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Apollo 15 by USS Okinawa and was designed for use on caps.


Patch id:	Apollo 16 recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	GEMSCO Inc.
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5" / 130mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	Examples have sold recently for $78 to $200^[16]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Apollo 16 by USS Ticonderoga CVS-14. Although I had originally thought this likely to be a Hilborn Hamburger patch it was actually produced by GEMSCO, like the Apollo 15 recovery patch above.


Patch id:	Apollo 16 recovery patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5" / 127mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Commercially available.
Value:	On sale at approx $7.

Notes:	This replica of the Apollo 16 recovery patch can be distinguished from the original by the merrowed edge and much neater detailing. Other replica versions may also exist.


Patch id:	Apollo 16 3" recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 3" / 76mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	An example sold recently for $35^[17]

Notes:	This 3" patch commemorating the recovery of Apollo 16 by USS Ticonderoga CVS-14 appears to have been produced at the time of the mission.


Patch id:	Apollo 16 oversize recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 7½" / 190mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	An example sold recently for $186.20^[18]

Notes:	This oversize patch features an alternative Apollo 16 recovery commemorative design.


Patch id:	Apollo 17 recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Hilborn Hamburger
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	4¾" / 122mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	Examples sold recently for between $99 and $200^[19]

Notes:	This patch, produced by Hilborn Hamburger, commemorates the recovery of Apollo 17 by USS Ticonderoga CVS-14. A number of replicas of this patch have been produced over the years, some of which are shown on the right.


Patch id:	Apollo 17 recovery patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5" / 127mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Commercially available
Value:	On sale at approx $7

Notes:	This replica of the Apollo 17 recovery patch can be readily identified by the purple thread used for the sea in the lower left quadrant.


Patch id:	Apollo 17 recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	4" / 102mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Was commercially available
Value:	Was originally sold at $25.

Notes:	This replica of the Apollo 17 recovery patch was produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). It can be indetified by its 4" size, and the pale blue sky, yellow sun, and pointy grey stars, among other differences.


Patch id:	Apollo 17 recovery alternative patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Hilborn Hamburger
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown.
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This alternative version of the Apollo 17 recovery patch adds the slogan "Always in Right Field".


Patch id:	Apollo 17 recovery alternative patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown.
Type:	Partially embroidered on white twill. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This is a replica version of the Apollo 17 recovery patch shown on the left.


Patch id:	Skylab I recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5" (127mm) high
Type:	Fully embroidered, merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This patch commemorating the recovery of Skylab I by USS Ticonderoga is apparently a Randy Hunt (4gator) replica of an original patch design.


Patch id:	Skylab II recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Hilborn Hamburger
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5" / 126mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. cut edge.
Scarcity:	Rare.
Value:	An example sold in 2017 for $446^[21]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the recovery of Skylab II by USS New Orleans LPH-11.


Patch id:	Skylab II recovery patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5" / 126mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Uknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This is a replica of the original patch, produced by Randy Hunt (4gator). There is a merrowed edge around the outer rope design, and the landmasses are executed in green thread.


Patch id:	Skylab III recovery patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Hilborn Hamburger
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	5 x 5¼" / 127 x 133mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Examples have sold for $138 to $200^[22]

Notes:	This patch by Hilborn Hamburger commemorates the recovery of Skylab III by USS New Orleans LPH-11.


Patch id:	Skylab III recovery patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This is a replica of the Skylab III recovery patch. One easily distinguishable difference from the original is the lack of a dark inner circle around the human figure in the design.


Patch id:	Manned Spacecraft Pacific Recovery Force TF-130 patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	4½ x 5" / 119 x 126mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Stitched border, cut edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	An example sold recently for $99^[23]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the Manned Spacecraft Pacific Recovery Force TF-130.


Patch id:	Manned Spacecraft Pacific Recovery Force TF-130 patch Randy Hunt replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Unknown
Type:	Fully embroidered. Cut edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown^[23]

Notes:	This is a Randy Hunt (4gator) replica of the patch on the left.


Patch id:	Manned Spacecraft Atlantic Recovery Force TF-140 patch

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Unknown
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	4" / 103mm
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	An example sold recently for $210^[24]

Notes:	This patch commemorates the Manned Spacecraft Atlantic Recovery Force TF-140.


Patch id:	Manned Spacecraft Atlantic Recovery Force TF-140 patch replica

Worn by crew?	No.

Manufacturer:	Randy Hunt (4gator)/td>
Distribution:	Unknown
Dimensions:	Approx 5"
Type:	Fully embroidered. Merrowed edge.
Scarcity:	Unknown
Value:	Unknown

Notes:	This is a replica of the patch on the left, produced by Randy Hunt (4gator) in the 1990s.


Footnotes
[1] Examples of USS Wasp Gemini 4/6/7 recovery patch sales: Lunar Legacies site July 2011 sold at $394.95 eBay item no. 271140528557 Jan 22, 2013 sold at $173.60 eBay item no. 251223449824 Feb 10, 2013 sold at $178.66 eBay item no. 321078582881 Mar 2, 2013 sold at $104.49 eBay item no. 171095437260 Aug 11, 2013 sold at $25 [poorly listed] eBay item no. 190889928059 Aug 29, 2013 sold at $102.50 eBay item no. 161350903700 Jul 10, 2014 sold at $119.99 Astro-Auction item no. ? Jan 31, 2015 sold at $78 eBay item no. 401285082351 Mar 8, 2017 sold at $49.99 [buy-it-now] eBay item no. 201890547363 Mar 9, 2017 sold at $99 eBay item no. 253073436010 Aug 4, 2017 sold at $89.95 eBay item no. 263690406393 May 30, 2018 sold at $105 eBay item no. 382784034298 Feb 17, 2019 sold at $80.70 eBay item no. 392310063251 Jun 11, 2019 sold at $59.00 eBay item no. 254295731501 Jul 22, 2019 sold at $89.00 eBay item no. 264565114280 Dec 25, 2019 sold at $89.00 eBay item no. 264565114280 Jan 12, 2020 sold at $89.00 eBay item no. 393023488043 Nov 24, 2020 sold at $38.51 eBay item no. 255188679174 Dec 16, 2021 sold at $129 eBay item no. 165444403836 Apr 21, 2022 sold at $14.70 [2] Examples of Gemini 4 recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 161030361523 May 25, 2013 sold at $186.05 Lunar Legacies auction lot no. 101 Jul 16, 2016 sold at $119 Lunar Legacies auction lot no. 116 Jan 18, 2020 sold at $219.60 [3] Examples of Gemini 2/5 recovery vessel/force patch sales: eBay item no. 392237706846 Feb 17, 2019 sold at $178.70 [Recovery Vessel] eBay item no. 283392886063 Mar 1, 2019 sold at $225 [Recovery Vessel] eBay item no. 382992635585 Jun 11, 2019 sold at $320.99 [Recovery Force] eBay item no. 392672450351 Feb 10, 2020 sold at $78.78 [Recovery Vessel] [4] Examples of Gemini 5 pickup recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 392237724308 Feb 17, 2019 sold at $186.80 [5] Examples of Gemini 6 recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 151048891660 May 25, 2013 sold at $153.50 eBay item no. 141120651225 Nov 24, 2013 sold at $151.49 [possible replica version] eBay item no. 201333917588 Apr 26, 2015 sold at $117.50 [6] Examples of Gemini 7 recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 161030368865 May 25, 2013 sold at $156 [7] Examples of Gemini 8 / Apollo 1 recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 392237722542 Feb 17, 2019 sold at $181.50 eBay item no. 382992637843 Jun 11, 2019 sold at $301.00 [8] Examples of Apollo 10 USS Princeton recovery patch sales: Lunar Legacies auction lot 235 Jun 2, 2012 sold at $531 (inc fees) eBay item no. 321287863784 Dec 31, 2013 sold at $19.99 [Buy-it-now] eBay item no. 3201333920699 Apr 26, 2015 sold at $150 eBay item no. 232662770968 Feb 18, 2018 sold at $80.00 eBay item no. 303000627328 Dec 24, 2018 sold at $123.87 eBay item no. 303072345269 Feb 22, 2019 sold at $123.87 eBay item no. 264474251001 Nov 20, 2019 sold at $159 [buy-it-now] [9] Examples of Apollo 11 recovery patch sales: Lunar Legacies site July 2011 sold at $224.95 eBay item no. 310382996009 Mar 7 2012 sold at $170.05 eBay item no. 370896141010 Sep 18 2013 sold at $70.00 (with other patches) eBay item no. 321287865399 Dec 31 2013 sold at $19.99 [Buy-it-now] (variant version) eBay item no. 251796265206 Feb 2 2015 sold at $369 eBay item no. 201333923681 Apr 26 2015 sold at $150 Lunar Legacies Space Auction Lot 309 Oct 28, 2017 sold at $238 [mounted in wall plaque] eBay item no. 263497786753 Feb 16, 2018 sold at $395 (with Recovery hat) eBay item no. 282973407435 May 24, 2018 sold at $63 eBay item no. 192719563326 Nov 20, 2018 sold at $261 (sewn on coveralls with Apolo 12 recovery patch) Lunar Legacies Space Auction lot 240 Jun 1, 2019 sold at $170.80 eBay item no. 264320031364 Jun 2, 2019 sold at $695 (with Crew patch) eBay item no. 254554021106 Apr 23, 2020 sold at $695 (with recovery cap) [10] Apollo 11 & 12 recovery patch presentation: Goldberg Space Auction lot 408 Apr 11, 2008 sold at $86 [11] Examples of Apollo 12 recovery patch sales: Lunar Legacies site July 2011 sold at $199.95 eBay item no. 380808106616 Dec 31 2013 sold at $19.99 [Buy-it-now] eBay item no. 360851489050 Feb 9, 2014 sold at $199.00 eBay item no. 201432313034 Oct 2, 2015 sold at $145 [offer accepted] eBay item no. 192719563326 Nov 20, 2018 sold at $261 (sewn on coveralls with Apolo 11 recovery patch) Lunar Legacies Space Auction lot 275 Jun 1, 2019 sold at $122 [12] Examples of Apollo 13 recovery patch sales: Lunar Legacies Space Auction lot 266 Jun 26, 2010 sold at $213 eBay item no. 321287869910 Dec 31 2013 sold at $19.99 [Buy-it-now] eBay item no. 121268298141 Feb 9, 2014 sold at $133.80 eBay item no. 291343857365 Jan 9, 2015 sold at $89.90 eBay item no. 201391008167 Aug 17, 2015 sold at $150 [buy-it-now] eBay item no. 362679708786 Jun 23, 2019 sold at $77 [13] Examples of Apollo 14 recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 250806565074 Apr 24, 2011 sold at $78 Lunar Legacies site July 2011 sold at $224.95 Lunar Legacies Auction lot 365 Aug 20, 2011 sold at $184 eBay item no. 120827349401 Dec 16, 2011 sold at $76 eBay item no. 180777268651 Dec 21, 2011 sold at $99.99 eBay item no. 251214572135 Jan 20, 2013 sold at $98.27 eBay item no. 121268299423 Feb 9, 2014 sold at $106.49 eBay item no. 201338443654 May 3, 2015 sold at $125 [14] Examples of Apollo 14 USS New Orleans recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 251206852921 Jan 6, 2013 sold at $80 eBay item no. 131149089397 Mar 30, 2014 sold at $22 eBay item no. 162539511872 Jun 2, 2017 sold at $18 [best offer accepted] eBay item no. 263399829331 Jan 16, 2018 sold at $89 [15] Examples of Apollo 15 recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 110894706645 Jun 15, 2012 sold at $515.15 eBay item no. 121263033175 Feb 2, 2014 sold at $199 [on original card] eBay item no. 201440696189 Oct 22, 2015 sold at $310 [on original card, same example as above] [16] Examples of Apollo 16 recovery patch sales: Regency/Superior space auction lot no. 871 Apr 21, 2006 sold at $460 Lunar Legacies site July 2011 sold at $199.99 eBay item no. 251210278760 Jan 13, 2013 sold at $100.99 eBay item no. 190889931356 Aug 29, 2013 sold at $110.10 eBay item no. 321213453095 Sep 28, 2013 sold at $57.66 eBay item no. 360788508183 Nov 17, 2013 sold at $186.20 [oversize patch] eBay item no. 360846092684 Feb 2, 2014 sold at $99.00 Astro-Auction item no. 1422733919 Jan 31, 2015 sold at $86.55 [on GEMSCO card] eBay item no. 3201373705740 Jun 25, 2015 sold at $150.00 eBay item no. 322303192145 Oct 30, 2016 sold at $78 [on GEMSCO card] eBay item no. 162528125205 May 31, 2017 sold at $42.55 eBay item no. 112877560552 Mar 25, 2018 sold at $92.23 eBay item no. 401863567162 Sep 2, 2019 sold at $51 eBay item no. 393093027702 Jan 11, 2022 sold at $12.99 Lunar Legacies Space Auction Lot 566 Sep 23, 2023 sold at $85.40 [17] Examples of Apollo 16 3" recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 400587336617 Oct 31, 2013 sold at (offer < $235) eBay item no. 321287870820 Dec 31 2013 sold at $9.99 [Buy-it-now] Astro-Auction item no. 1422733752 Jan 31, 2015 sold at $14.90 eBay item no. 401282378856 Feb 26, 2017 sold at $35 v [18] Examples of Apollo 16 oversize recovery patch sales: [19] Examples of Apollo 17 recovery patch sales: Lunar Legacies site July 2011 sold at $199.99 eBay item no. 180777268228 Dec 21, 2011 sold at $99.99 eBay item no. 270957210138 Apr 15, 2012 sold at $49.99 [Buy-it-Now with alt patch] eBay item no. 321213452015 Sep 28, 2013 sold at $56.55 eBay item no. 121263041142 Feb 2, 2014 sold at $99.00 eBay item no. 201816880961 Mar 4, 2017 sold at $99 [but-it-now] [20] Examples of Apollo 17 recovery alternative patch sales: eBay item no. 270957210138 Apr 15, 2012 sold at $49.99 [Buy-it-Now with recovery patch] eBay item no. 310664537374 May 11, 2013 sold at $42.05 (soiled) [21] Examples of Skylab II recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 380808111135 Dec 31 2013 sold at $19.99 [Buy-it-now] Lunar Legacies Space Auction lot no. 494 Mar 11, 2017 sold at $446.25 [in original packaging] eBay item no. 303519987519 Mar 25, 2020 sold at $450 eBay item no. 293543700223 Apr 18, 2020 sold at $250.50 eBay item no. 154314426500 Feb 7, 2022 sold at $129 [22] Examples of Skylab III recovery patch sales: Swann Auction lot 273 Mar 18, 2006 sold at $138 Lunar Legacies site July 2011 sold at $199.95 eBay item no. 251210277126 Jan 13, 2013 sold at $145.49 eBay item no. 251324841251 Aug 24, 2013 sold at $169.95 eBay item no. 321287878848 Dec 31 2013 sold at $19.99 [Buy-it-now] [23] Examples of TF-130 recovery patch sales: Lunar Legacies site July 2011 sold at $179.95 eBay item no. 122580389370 Jul 3, 2017 sold at $99 [24] Examples of TF-140 recovery patch sales: eBay item no. 112316724011 Feb 26, 2017 sold at $49.99 [buy-it-now] eBay item no. 223454103055 Mar 26, 2019 sold at $203.50 (with Ed White signed cover) American Space Museum & Space Walk of Fame auction lot 116 Apr 10, 2021 sold at $210


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