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Rare and impressiveCold War U.S. Navy submarine launching memorabiliaassociated with theUSS Benjamin Franklin (SSBN-640).
This presentation features an invitation to the official launching of USS Benjamin Franklin at theGeneral Dynamics Corporation, Electric Boat Division, Groton, Connecticut, onDecember 5, 1964.
The invitation reads in part:
“General Dynamics Corporation requests the honor of your presence at the launching of the USS BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (SSBN 640)”
The ceremony was scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time at the North Yard of the Electric Boat Division.
The invitation identifies the submarine's co-sponsors asMrs. Leon V. ChaplinandMrs. Francis L. Moseleyand carries the particularly interesting Cold War-era instruction:
“Cameras are prohibited.”
The approximately6¼" x 9" invitationis displayed beneath glass within a substantial wooden presentation tray/frame measuring approximately19¼" x 13½" overall. The piece has a green felt display field, matching green felt-covered reverse and chrome-tone handles at each end.
The presentation has a handsome mid-century institutional appearance and makes an impressive display piece.
USS Benjamin Franklin was the lead boat of theBenjamin Franklin class of nuclear-powered fleet ballistic-missile submarines, an important component of America's Cold War strategic nuclear deterrent.
Dimensions
- Overall presentation tray/frame:approximately 19¼" x 13½"
- Launching invitation:approximately 6¼" x 9"
Condition
Good vintage condition overall with age-related wear. The wooden frame shows scattered scratches, small areas of finish loss and edge wear consistent with age and use. The invitation exhibits some age toning, spotting/foxing and discoloration. Green felt remains present on both the display area and reverse.
Please examine all photographs carefully for condition and construction details.
A distinctive piece for a collector ofU.S. Navy submarine memorabilia, SSBN/Polaris submarines, Electric Boat history, General Dynamics memorabilia, Cold War artifacts or USS Benjamin Franklin SSBN-640 material.
No representation is made that the wooden presentation tray was manufactured by General Dynamics or Electric Boat; the invitation itself identifies General Dynamics Corporation and its Electric Boat Division.
