Vintage Flying Helmets
Aviation, military and historical items for discerning collectors
Manuals / Ephemera
(click on pictures to enlarge)
AAF Aerial Photo Supplement, July 1944.
Rare and hard to find AAF Training Command publication featuring over 150 aerial photographs of various locations throughout the US and all over the world. Intended for pilots, navigators and bombardiers to familiarize themselves with different types of terrain, camouflage techniques etc. in preparation for combat operations. This is the second edition, printed July 1944, prepared by the training offers at Randolph Field, Texas. 8.5" x 11" soft cover, excellent condition.
$85 / £70 / €80
 AAF Aerial Photo Supplement, July 1944 |  AAF Aerial Photo Supplement, July 1944 |
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 DSCN6519 |  AAF Aerial Photo Supplement, July 1944 |
 AAF Aerial Photo Supplement, July 1944 |  AAF Aerial Photo Supplement, July 1944 |
 AAF Aerial Photo Supplement, July 1944 |  AAF Aerial Photo Supplement, July 1944 |
 AAF Aerial Photo Supplement, July 1944 |
AAF B-29 Superfortess Pilot's Training Manual.
The bomber that arguably had the last say in WWII, dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. This original wartime edition was printed in February 1945. Cardboard covers and 3 screw/bolt binding so that pages could be added/deleted as necessary. This example is named to a Lieutenant Leverett G. Richards. Everything you need to know to fly the B-29 Superfortress.
$85 / £70 / €80
 AAF B-29 Superfortess Pilot's Training Manual |  AAF B-29 Superfortess Pilot's Training Manual |
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 AAF B-29 Superfortess Pilot's Training Manual |  AAF B-29 Superfortess Pilot's Training Manual |
 AAF B-29 Superfortess Pilot's Training Manual |  AAF B-29 Superfortess Pilot's Training Manual |
 AAF B-29 Superfortess Pilot's Training Manual |  AAF B-29 Superfortess Pilot's Training Manual |
 AAF B-29 Superfortess Pilot's Training Manual |
South African newspaper December 1942, complete, mailed home to London.
Fascinating incidental display item—and great reading—with a wealth of history! A 4-page newspaper from the township of Queenstown, South Africa, dated December 19, 1942, sent home to his mother in London by an airman serving in the RAF. He has highlighted the story of four of his colleagues killed in a plane crash at the local RAF station. Other stories include news on the war from Burma, Cairo and other hotbeds of fighting. As usual the adverts are also very interesting. As was the custom, the newspaper was folded up, addressed and stamped, then dropped in the mail. Incredible condition for all it's been through.
$50 / £40 / €48
 South African newspaper December 1942, mailed home to London |  South African newspaper December 1942, mailed home to London |
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 South African newspaper December 1942, mailed home to London |  South African newspaper December 1942, mailed home to London |
 South African newspaper December 1942, mailed home to London |  South African newspaper December 1942, mailed home to London |
 South African newspaper December 1942, mailed home to London |
RAF AP1234 Manual of Air Navigation Vol 1 dated 1935.
Every pilot as well as every navigator had to go through navigation training and will have studied this book. Being 1935 dated, this is the manual numerous battle fo Britain pilots will have had at their disposal. Added to which, this is stamped "Received Oct 14, 1937 20(B) Squadron, RCAF, Regina, Saskatchewan" where it was undoubtedly used by the Empire Training School. Complete and with various pasted in revisions and corrections. Minor surface tear and paint stain on cover otherwise in excellent condition. Not a common find.
$90 / £75 / €85
 RAF AP1234 Manual of Air Navigation Vol 1 dated 1935 |  RAF AP1234 Manual of Air Navigation Vol 1 dated 1935 |
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 RAF AP1234 Manual of Air Navigation Vol 1 dated 1935 |  RAF AP1234 Manual of Air Navigation Vol 1 dated 1935 |
 RAF AP1234 Manual of Air Navigation Vol 1 dated 1935 |  RAF AP1234 Manual of Air Navigation Vol 1 dated 1935 |
RAF AP1480A - British Aircraft Recognition Handbook.
Publication date September 1941. This manual displays photographs and silhouettes from multiple angles of all aircraft in RAF service at the time (which includes many American types as well). Very good condition, with minor staining to cover. Tabs indicate 4 sections: single engine types; twin engine types, three engine and four engine - but the 3-engine section is empty (none in service at that time). Also includes an untabbed section at the back with gliders - and curiously the FW200 Condor is included in the 4-engine section! . All pilots and aircrews were expected to study and memorize this information!
$100 / £85 / €95
 RAF AP1480A - British Aircraft Recognition manual |  RAF AP1480A - British Aircraft Recognition manual |
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 RAF AP1480A - British Aircraft Recognition manual |  RAF AP1480A - British Aircraft Recognition manual |
 RAF AP1480A - British Aircraft Recognition manual |  RAF AP1480A - British Aircraft Recognition manual |
 RAF AP1480A - British Aircraft Recognition manual |
RARE RAF Pilot's Notes for the De Havilland Hornet fighter.
The De Havilland Hornet was the direct descendant of the famed "Wooden wonder" Mosquito, and though it was designed in WWII and first flew in July 1944, it not enter service until 1946. It had a successful service life with the RAF and Fleet Air Arm (as the Sea Hornet). RAF Pilot's Notes are rare and highly sought after. This manual is early post-war, dated December 1947 and includes the usual array of information and diagrams, including photos of the cockpit layout and controls. Overall very good condition with some wear to cover. A very rare AP notes/booklet.
$95 / £80 / €92
 RAF Pilot's Notes for the De Havilland Hornet fighter |
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 RAF Pilot's Notes for the De Havilland Hornet fighter |
 RAF Pilot's Notes for the De Havilland Hornet fighter |
 RAF Pilot's Notes for the De Havilland Hornet fighter |
 RAF Pilot's Notes for the De Havilland Hornet fighter |
 RAF Pilot's Notes for the De Havilland Hornet fighter |
 RAF Pilot's Notes for the De Havilland Hornet fighter |
RAF Battle of Britain Commemorative dagger by Wilkinson Sword in fitted case.
Made in 1970 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, this superb dagger is made by Wilkinson Sword, silver plated with etched blade, wooden hilt and scabbard with silver plated chape, mounted in a sky blue felt-lined wooden case with a silver plated plaque and medallions of Churchill and the RAF crest. Excellent condition with light age patina. A collectible in its own right, being over 50 years old, as well as a superb reminder of "The Few".
$200 / £150 / €185
 RAF Battle of Britain Commemorative dagger by Wilkinson Sword in fitted case |  RAF Battle of Britain Commemorative dagger by Wilkinson Sword in fitted case |
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 RAF Battle of Britain Commemorative dagger by Wilkinson Sword in fitted case |  RAF Battle of Britain Commemorative dagger by Wilkinson Sword in fitted case |
 RAF Battle of Britain Commemorative dagger by Wilkinson Sword in fitted case |  RAF Battle of Britain Commemorative dagger by Wilkinson Sword in fitted case |
 RAF Battle of Britain Commemorative dagger by Wilkinson Sword in fitted case |  RAF Battle of Britain Commemorative dagger by Wilkinson Sword in fitted case |
 RAF Battle of Britain Commemorative dagger by Wilkinson Sword in fitted case |
Rare AP 1728D Vol 1. manual for the Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines.
Fantastic RAF manual for the Bristol Hercules engine, the radial engine which powered RAF Beaufighters, Wellngtons, Stirlings and Halifax aircraft, as well as the Lancaster Mk II, among others. It continued in service well past the end of the war, but this is a rare April 1942 dated edition of the official AP notes. Bound by cord and in a hard cover, this manual features multiple fold-out pages with diagrams printed in colour in addition to the notes and numerous b/w photographs. A rare and early manual for one of the best known and most utilized radial aero-engines of the RAF.
$250 / £185 / €220
 DSCN3172 |  AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |
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 AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |  AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |
 AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |  AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |
 AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |  AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |
 AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |  AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |
 AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |  AP 1728D Vol 1. Hercules VI and XVI Aero-Engines. |
RCAF Air Gunner's notebook/course notes from Armament School at Mont. View Ontario.
Personal course notes from the Armaments School, Mont. View, Ontario with incredible detail on every kind of weapon taught, from revolvers and rifles to Browning .303 and .5 inch aircraft guns, Hispano etc. Dates from mid-WWII (references on sketches to 1943). All handwritten but very neat and legible, approximately .75 inch thick with copious detailed hand drawn coloured-pencil illustrations of components, cutaways, etc. One of a kind item absolutely full of useful information.
$85 / £65 / €75
 RCAF Air Gunner's notebook from Armament School at Mont. View Ontario |  RCAF Air Gunner's notebook from Armament School at Mont. View Ontario |
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 RCAF Air Gunner's notebook from Armament School at Mont. View Ontario |  RCAF Air Gunner's notebook from Armament School at Mont. View Ontario |
 RCAF Air Gunner's notebook from Armament School at Mont. View Ontario |  RCAF Air Gunner's notebook from Armament School at Mont. View Ontario |
 RCAF Air Gunner's notebook from Armament School at Mont. View Ontario |  RCAF Air Gunner's notebook from Armament School at Mont. View Ontario |
The Navy magazine annual review of Naval Aviation, 1954.
Superb publication dated September 1954, over 50 pages dedicated to Naval Aviation: the latest news, newest aircraft, great articles with many photos and of course wonderful ads of the time. There's even a Fleet Air Arm quiz! Photos show Navy pilots still wearing Type C helmets and Mk VIII goggles. Great condition. Lots of useful information.
$25 / £20 / €22
 The Navy magazine annual review of Naval Aviation, 1954 |  The Navy magazine annual review of Naval Aviation, 1954 |
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 The Navy magazine annual review of Naval Aviation, 1954 |  The Navy magazine annual review of Naval Aviation, 1954 |
 The Navy magazine annual review of Naval Aviation, 1954 |
"Laughs with the Forces" - 1943 magazine featuring cartoons from Punch and Giles and others.
For many people growing up in England, it wasn't Christmas without the yearly book of cartoons by Giles, the famous cartoonist whose work appeared every day in the Daily Express. Giles was hard at work during the Second World War as well, and this lovely piece of nostalgia features his early work, along with cartoons from Punch, as well as numerous anecdotes and jokes about the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. 48-pages, 5.5" x 8.5" (14cm x 22cm). Excellent condition, with one small tear at the spine. Brilliant British military humour.
$40 / £30 / €45
 Laugh with the Forces - 1943 magazine featuring cartoons from Punch and Giles and others.. |
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 Laugh with the Forces - 1943 magazine featuring cartoons from Punch and Giles and others.. |
 Laugh with the Forces - 1943 magazine featuring cartoons from Punch and Giles and others.. |
 Laugh with the Forces - 1943 magazine featuring cartoons from Punch and Giles and others.. |
 Laugh with the Forces - 1943 magazine featuring cartoons from Punch and Giles and others.. |
 Laugh with the Forces - 1943 magazine featuring cartoons from Punch and Giles and others.. |
 Laugh with the Forces - 1943 magazine featuring cartoons from Punch and Giles and others.. |
 Laugh with the Forces - 1943 magazine featuring cartoons from Punch and Giles and others.. |
3 x Japanese military collector magazines.
For years Japanese printing companies led the world with quality publications featuring vintage and modern military equipment, from hardware to uniforms and clothing. Among the best were COMBAT and Koku-Fan. Offered here are 3 magazines from 2005 ad 2007, packed with colour and b/w images (including one issue of Combat which featured some of my own Luftwaffe collection!). Now collectible in their own right. All three together.
$45 / £35 / €40
 3 x Japanese military collector magazines |  3 x Japanese military collector magazines |
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 3 x Japanese military collector magazines |  3 x Japanese military collector magazines |
 3 x Japanese military collector magazines |  3 x Japanese military collector magazines |
 3 x Japanese military collector magazines |  3 x Japanese military collector magazines |
 3 x Japanese military collector magazines |  3 x Japanese military collector magazines |
 3 x Japanese military collector magazines |  3 x Japanese military collector magazines |
 3 x Japanese military collector magazines |  3 x Japanese military collector magazines |
 3 x Japanese military collector magazines |  3 x Japanese military collector magazines |
Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force.
Unit histories don't come any rarer than this - the history of the entire Bombing Wing, comprising the 44th BG, 392nd BG and 491st BG, stationed at Shipdham, Wendling and North Pickenham. Great photos throughout of their B-24 aircraft, nose art, personnel, etc. In excellent condition, except someone has carefully cut out a small rectangle, about 1.5" x 0.5" from the frontisppiece. No idea why - it doesn't affect the text in anyway.
$155 / £115 / €135
 Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |  Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |
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 Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |  Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |
 Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |  Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |
 Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |  Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |
 Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |  Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |
 Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |  Rare unit history of the 14th Combat Bombardment Wing, US 8th Air Force |
RAF Flight Sergeant's
Kriegsgefangenpost
POW letter home.
Letter written in pencil by a Flight Sergeant POW Robert Beard, to his parentss and sister in Wales. Letter is dated February 27, 1944 but didn't evidently arrive until May 5th. He talks about POW camp life, receiving parcels and helping out other prisoners. Beard flew with 61 squadron RAF (Lancasters) and was shot down in 29 July, 1942, so he was a POW for a long time. He says he feels better off now than when when he first arrived, but still says he will want some good meals when he gets home! Interesting slice of POW camp life. Very readable and very good condition.
$75 / £55 / €65
 RAF Flt. Sgt. POW letter home |  RAF Flt. Sgt. POW letter home |
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 RAF Flt. Sgt. POW letter home |  RAF Flt. Sgt. POW letter home |
 RAF Flt. Sgt. POW letter home |
AAF Official Guide 1944 soft cover.
The official guide to the Army Air Forces, soft cover, 1944 edition, with everything you could ever want or need to know about the organizational structure of the AAF. Very good condition, bright colours, some creases to cover. 380-pages, profusely illustrated with photographs, diagrams and illustrations, both colour and black & white. Incredible details. This example is subtitled "Special Edition for AAF Organizations".
$20 / £15 / €18
 AAF Official Guide 1944 soft cover |  AAF Official Guide 1944 soft cover |
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 AAF Official Guide 1944 soft cover |  AAF Official Guide 1944 soft cover |
 AAF Official Guide 1944 soft cover |  AAF Official Guide 1944 soft cover |
 AAF Official Guide 1944 soft cover |
Wehrmacht song book.
In complete contrast to the lighthearted songs featured in the US Army song book (above), this German version is all about singing for the Fatherland! Also published in 1941, it is in very good condition, 4.5" x 6" (110mm x 158mm) with 80-pages of patriotic songs, printed in typical Gothic script, with both words and music. As with the US Army booklet, a great item to display as an accessory.
$45 / £33 / €38
 Wehrmacht song book |  Wehrmacht song book |
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 Wehrmacht song book |  Wehrmacht song book |
 Wehrmacht song book |
WWII Hallmark greeting card to new service member.
Wonderful early Hallmark greeting card wishing a new recruit good luck in the US Army. Printed on low quality but very heavy, fibrous recycled paper in brown, black, red and blue ink, and comb bound, this 16-page booklet measures 5" x 6" (12.5cm x 15cm). Signed on the back otherwise in excellent condition. I wonder how many of these could have survived!
$35 / £25 / €30
 WWII Hallmark greeting card to new service member |  WWII Hallmark greeting card to new service member |
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 WWII Hallmark greeting card to new service member |  WWII Hallmark greeting card to new service member |
 WWII Hallmark greeting card to new service member |
LIFE magazine, dated March 1942 with Flying Tigers article.
Superb wartime copy of the popular American magazine in excellent condition, no tears or damage, only slight creasing and bent corners. 134-pages, large format (26cm x 35cm) with typically great photographs throughout including a fabulous feature article on the Flying Tigers / AVG in Burma with many photographs of pilots, all ID'd. There is a another great article on submarine training. Shirley Temple on the front cover. Great old advertisements throughout - colour and black and white. Magazines add a great finishing touch to any display.
$35 / £26 / €30
 LIFE magazine, dated March 1942 with Flying Tigers article |  LIFE magazine, dated March 1942 with Flying Tigers article |
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 LIFE magazine, dated March 1942 with Flying Tigers article |  LIFE magazine, dated March 1942 with Flying Tigers article |
 LIFE magazine, dated March 1942 with Flying Tigers article |  LIFE magazine, dated March 1942 with Flying Tigers article |
 LIFE magazine, dated March 1942 with Flying Tigers article |  LIFE magazine, dated March 1942 with Flying Tigers article |
RAF copy of the engine notes for the Curtiss Kitty Hawk fighter / Allison engine.
The P-40 Kitty Hawk aircraft was used in a limited capacity by the RAF, primarily in the Western Desert, where it proved successful. Documentation for the RAF version of the aircraft is few and far between and this is a scarce and interesting booklet on the Allison engine. Essentially photographically copies from the American manual and printed on photographic paper, with the "official" RAF ink stamp to the reverse. Excellent condition.
$65 / £48 / €55
 RAF copy of the engine notes for the Curtiss Kitty Hawk fighter. |  RAF copy of the engine notes for the Curtiss Kitty Hawk fighter. |
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 RAF copy of the engine notes for the Curtiss Kitty Hawk fighter. |  RAF copy of the engine notes for the Curtiss Kitty Hawk fighter. |
AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group, 8th Air Force Unit History.
Superb original edition of the 48th Bomb Group, 8th Air Force Unit History. The group comprised the 836th, 837th and 838th Bomb Squadrons and was based at Lavenham, Suffolk. They flew B-17 and B-24 heavy bombers and aircraft carried the code letter "P" on their tails. Book is in very good condition, clean, with good binding, very slight wear to spine but overall a very good collectible copy of this rare unit history.
$185 / £135 / €158
 AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group Unit History |  AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group Unit History |
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 AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group Unit History |  AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group Unit History |
 AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group Unit History |  AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group Unit History |
 AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group Unit History |  AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group Unit History |
 AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group Unit History |  DSCN0858 |
 AAF original edition 48th Bomb Group Unit History |
WWII commemorative matchbooks - unused condition.
These are the large format match books: 3" x 2.25" and all completely full of matches as originally produced. Slight wear externally, but superb condition.
Waco Army Air Feld, TX
Hammer Field, Fresno, CA
Wendover Field, UT
Kelly Field, TX
Price each: $20 / £15 / €18
 WWII commemorative matchbooks - unused condition |  WWII commemorative matchbooks - unused condition |
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 WWII commemorative matchbooks - unused condition |
WWII commemorative matchbooks - no matches.
These are the large format match books: 3" x 2.25" as above, but all matches removed or used. Slight wear externally, but overall very good condition.
San Marcos Army Air Feld, TX
Hammer Field, Fresno, CA
23rd AAF Glider Training,
Hamilton, TX
SeaBees
Price each: $15 / £11 / €13
 WWII commemorative matchbooks - no matches. |  WWII commemorative matchbooks - no matches. |
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 WWII commemorative matchbooks - no matches. |
WWII US military small matchbooks.
These are the smaller format match books: 2" x 1.5" in near perfect condition with all matches still present.
USNAS Eagle Mountain, TX
US Army
USAAF
Price each: $20 / £15 / €18
 US Army match books unused, all matches present. |  US Army match books unused, all matches present. |
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 US Army match books unused, all matches present. |
WWII AAF Swallow-Tail Guidon 80th Troop Carrier Squadron.
Gorgeous 2-sided swallow-tail guidon pennant in heavy blue cotton, with OD green cotton inside the flagpole channel and gold/yellow felt machine sewn winged-prop insignia and numerals. 30" x 20" and just impeccable condition. A couple of very tiny (pin-head sized) moth nips in the felt which are barely visible. The 80th Troop carrier squadron flew on D-Day, dropping 101st Airborne paratroopers, and then dropping supplies the following day. A superb guidon.
$135 / £98 / €115
 WWII AAF Swallow-Tail Guidon 80th Troop Carrier Squadron |  WWII AAF Swallow-Tail Guidon 80th Troop Carrier Squadron |
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 WWII AAF Swallow-Tail Guidon 80th Troop Carrier Squadron |  WWII AAF Swallow-Tail Guidon 80th Troop Carrier Squadron |
 WWII AAF Swallow-Tail Guidon 80th Troop Carrier Squadron |
Wartime RAF / RCAF manual for the Tiger Moth Gipsy Major engine
The companion volume to the Tiger Moth instruction manual. This is the manual for the Gipsy Major engine which powered the De Havilland DH 82C Tiger Moth training aircraft. Same size but with a red semi-rigid leatherette cover, it is filled with fold-out diagrams showing the engine's systems. Scarce manual.
$80 / £58 / €65
 RCAF RAF manual for the Tiger Moth Gipsy major engine |  RCAF RAF manual for the Tiger Moth Gipsy major engine |
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 RCAF RAF manual for the Tiger Moth Gipsy major engine |  RCAF RAF manual for the Tiger Moth Gipsy major engine |
 RCAF RAF manual for the Tiger Moth Gipsy major engine |  RCAF RAF manual for the Tiger Moth Gipsy major engine |
 RCAF RAF manual for the Tiger Moth Gipsy major engine |  RCAF RAF manual for the Tiger Moth Gipsy major engine |
RAF Aircrew Training Manual.
Large, hard bound volume comprising several sets of APs for training all RAF aircrew cadets in all crew positions, including Pilot, Navigator and Air Gunner, with course notes on Principles of Flight, Air Navigation, Meteorology, Weaponry (including the Browning .303 machine gun and small arms) amongst others - as well as a section on Maths. Various dates (all wartime). This heavy volume measures 9.5" x 12" and almost an inch thick! An important manual which would have been issued to all RAF aircrew in training.
$125 / £90 / €105
 RAF Aircrew Training Manual |  RAF Aircrew Training Manual |
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 RAF Aircrew Training Manual |  RAF Aircrew Training Manual |
 DSCN0471 |  RAF Aircrew Training Manual |
 RAF Aircrew Training Manual |  RAF Aircrew Training Manual |
 RAF Aircrew Training Manual |
WWII RAF Flight Engineer's training manual on carburettors.
Foolscap size sheaf of papers, about 1/3 of an inch thick, on aircraft carburettors pertaining to the duties of a RAF Flight Engineer and or mechanic. Everything you ever wanted to know about carburettors. named on front sheet to "Whitehead".
$30 / £20 / €25
 RAF Flight Engineer's training manual on carburettors. |  RAF Flight Engineer's training manual on carburettors. |
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 RAF Flight Engineer's training manual on carburettors. |
WWII RAF Standard Notes from RAF School of Firefighting.
Small book of standard course notes fro the RAF School of Fire-Fighting, measuring 6.75" x 8" (17cm x 20cm) and about half an inch thick (over 200 pages). Bound with string and marked "Restricted" and "Must Not Be Reproduced". Includes list of all fire-fighting equipment on hand for the RAF. Considering how much pilots and aircrews depended on Fire-fighters for their survival after returning from operations, this is a great piece to have in any RAF collection. Well used, the cover quite dog-eared but completed and with no damage.
$55 / £40 / €45
 RAF Standard Notes from RAF School of Firefighting |  RAF Standard Notes from RAF School of Firefighting |
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1930s / WWII Union Flag printed on cotton.
The distinctive "square" pattern dates this is as a very early vintage flag (note squared off ends on the diagonal red cross). Excellent condition with no damage, it was made as a flat hanging flag and then hand sewn along one edge to be flown from a flagpole. 34" x 46" (66cm x 116cm). Probably more patriotic than military, but a very nice example with lovely age toning to the cotton, but no fading to the colours.
$175 / £128 / €150
 1930s / WWII Union Flag printed on cotton |  1930s / WWII Union Flag printed on cotton |
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 1930s / WWII Union Flag printed on cotton |  1930s / WWII Union Flag printed on cotton |
Battle of Britain 30th Anniversary First day Cover.
Officially flown in a Hawker Hurricane and duly noted, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Battle, the stamp features Alcock and Brown (first to fly the Atlantic). Excellent condition. A nice collectible.
$25 / £19 / €21
 Battle of Britain 30th Anniversary First day Cover. |  Battle of Britain 30th Anniversary First day Cover. |
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 Battle of Britain 30th Anniversary First day Cover. |
Original instruction sheet for AAF HS-33 / HS-38 radio headset.
4-page, single sheet instructions for correct installation of the headset (whether in a helmet or worn as a headband) in the aircraft. Some slight staining and unfortunately a little insect damage, but it is still readable and useful information.
$15 / £12 / €13
 Instruction sheet for HS-33 / HS-38 radio headset. |  Instruction sheet for HS-33 / HS-38 radio headset. |
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 Instruction sheet for HS-33 / HS-38 radio headset. |
Original instruction sheet for installation of USN H-87/U helmet radio headset.
Single sheet, one-sided instruction sheet for replacing the old style (ANB-H-1) receivers in the green nylon flying helmet used by US Navy pilots in the Korean War era / 1950s. Excellent condition.
$20 / £15 / €17 email to secure this item
 Instruction sheet for USN H-87/U helmet radio headset |  Instruction sheet for USN H-87/U helmet radio headset |
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RAF Pilot's Notes for Spitfire Mk IIA and IIB (reprint)
Facsimile / reprint of The official Pilots Notes for the Spitfire IIA and IIB - which saw combat action during the Battle of Britain. Loose bound sheets as per the original, secured with a cord and plastic ends 9original would have had metal). An exact copy, great for the information it contains. Every Spitfire pilot would have been given one of these while he was learning to fly the type.
$20 / £16 / €18 email to secure this item
 RAF Spitfire Mk II Pilots Notes-rep |
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 RAF Spitfire Mk II Pilots Notes-rep |
 RAF Spitfire Mk II Pilots Notes-rep |
 RAF Spitfire Mk II Pilots Notes-rep |
 RAF Spitfire Mk II Pilots Notes-5620 |
RAF Pilot's Notes for Hurricane IIA, IIB, IIC, IID and IV (reprint)
Facsimile / reprint of The official Pilots Notes for the Hawker Hurricane IIA, B, C, D and IV. The early versions saw combat action during the Battle of Britain. Loose bound sheets as per the original, secured with a cord and plastic ends 9original would have had metal). An exact copy, great for the information it contains. Every Hurricane pilot would have been given one of these while he was learning to fly the type.
$20/ £16 / €18 email to secure this item
 RAF Pilot's Notes Hurricane II + IV |
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 RAF Pilot's Notes Hurricane II + IV |
 RAF Pilot's Notes Hurricane II + IV |
 RAF Pilot's Notes Hurricane II + IV |
RAF Pilot's Notes for Spitfire Mk 18 (early reprint)
An old facsimile / reprint of The official Pilots Notes for the Spitfire 18 - one of the more obscure and lesser known marks of this remarkable fighter aircraft. This most likely dates to the 1960s because it is printed on coated paper as originals were, and the blue card cover is well faded. The information on this rare type is valuable in of itself. Slight surface tear to front cover, nothing serious.
$25 / £20 / €23 email to secure this item
 Pilots Notes Spitfire 18 (reprint) |  Pilots Notes Spitfire 18 (reprint) |
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 Pilots Notes Spitfire 18 (reprint553 |  Pilots Notes Spitfire 18 (reprint) |
 Pilots Notes Spitfire 18 (reprint) |
Corgi Gloster Meteor + V-1 Doodelbug.
Corgi Classic aircraft series, a limited edition release: Pristine condition Corgi 72-scale Gloster Meteor F3 jet fighter in wartime colours of 616 Squadron, together with the Fiesler F103 "Doodlebug" flying bomb. Die Cast metal with wonderful detail. Mounted on original stands but please note there is NO BOX. Excellent condition and perfect for display.
$45 / £33 / €38 email to secure this item
 Corgi Meteor + Doodlebug |  DSCN5020 |
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 DSCN5023 |  DSCN5024 |
 DSCN5021 |  DSCN5018 |
2 x RAF wartime medical journals.
Dated Aug-Sept 1943 and Aug-Sept 1945, these two magazines contain fascinating articles and photographs of the latest studies and developments in plastic surgery for burned aircrews,
prosthetic eyes, effects of anaesthesia, oxygen use, jungle diseases and much more. The science behind the miracle workers who put airmen back together. 22-pages and 26-pages plus cover respectively. Used with a few nicks but complete and very readable. Rarely seen publications.
Price is for both.
$35 / £27 / €32
 RAF wartime medical journals |  RAF wartime medical journals |
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 RAF wartime medical journals |  RAF wartime medical journals |
 RAF wartime medical journals |  RAF wartime medical journals |
 RAF wartime medical journals |  RAF wartime medical journals |
Practical Flying: Complete Course of Flying Instructions by Flight Commander W.G. McMinnies, Royal Navy.
First US edition, published by George H. Doran Company in New York, 1918 - incredible book on essentially "teaching yourself to fly" based on the experiences of The RFC and RNAS in the Great War. Copiously illustrated throughout including a long panoramic pull out chart. The original flying manual with a lot of useful and historic information. Rare edition in very good condition, solid binding 248-pages.
$65 / £50 / €58 email to secure this item
 Practical Flying Instruction 1918 |
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 Practical Flying Instruction 1918 |
 Practical Flying Instruction 1918563 |
 Practical Flying Instruction 1918 |
Aeroplanes and Aero Engines by "Avion."
The perfect companion to the above book on Practical Flying Instruction. Aeroplanes and Aero Engines: An introduction to the study of flight in simple language for the man in the street by "Avion" published by C. Arthr Pearson Ltd, London, 1918. First edition, second impression, October 1918. 158-pages illustrated throughout. A wonderful book for its time, when so little was known or understood about flying. Very good condition, some foxing, discolouration, but solid binding. Very readable.
$20 / £15 / €18 email to secure this item
 Aeroplanes and Aero Engines |
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 Aeroplanes and Aero Engines |
 Aeroplanes and Aero Engines |
AAF Pilot's Information File (reprint).
The standard AAF Pilot's Information File (what the RAF referred to as "Pilot's Notes General) used throughout WWII and updated as necessary. This is the 1995 reprint of the January 1944 edition by Schiffer Military History. Great condition and excellent reference without having to stress your original copy every time you want to look something up!
$15 / £12 / €14 email to secure this item
 AAF Pilots Information File reprint |
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Rare 1942 RAF dropped propaganda leaflet "Le Courier de L'Air" no. 2
Though The RAF dropped these by the thousand in the early days of the war, very few propaganda leaflets survive, and this original from 1942 is absolutely superb. A 4-page bulletin dropped on France tells the French people that General Wavell is in charge and that the American army will soon be arriving in Europe! The back cover is devoted to assurance that the Russian winter will take care of the German army! It also publishes the frequencies at which French patriots can tune in and listen to BBC broadcasts on the radio! Excellent condition, no damage and minor soiling to front. At great risk, the RAF often flew missions where they dropped leaflets instead of bombs, or else dropped them on civilian targets on their way to or from a bombing mission. A rare piece of history.
$80 / £60 / €68
 RAF dropped propaganda leaflet |
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 RAF dropped propaganda leaflet |
 RAF dropped propaganda leaflet |
1936 dated Chinese 100 yuan banknote, signed by an Allied Officer. A very short "short Snorter"
Extremely short "short snorter" comprising just one banknote, signed and gifted by an Allied officer who evidently served in China during WWII. Hard to read the message but it appears to be signed and dated 1942. It would be worth studying the signature and researching it further. Chinese banknotes of this era are quite scarce.
$55 / £45 / €50 email to secure this item
 WWII Chinese banknote signed |
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 WWII Chinese banknote signed |
Japan "occupation" money (banknotes).
Nine banknotes altogether: 2 x 100, 1 x 50, 2 x 5, and 4 x 10. Issued by the Japanese Government and marked "Issued pursuant to military proclamation." Unusual souvenir and great for display as part of a Hiroshima or Nagasaki post-atomic collection.
Price for all pieces.
$55 / £45 / €50 email to secure this item
 Japanese Occupation Money |
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 Japanese Occupation Money |
 Japanese Occupation Money |
 Japanese Occupation Money |
 Japanese Occupation Money |
Three issues of the most interesting WWII AAF publication you've probably NEVER seen!
IMPACT was published monthly by the Assistant Chief of Air Staff in Washington, DC for distribution to AAF Squadron intelligence officers to share as they saw fit. The majority of photographs and information contained were confidential and restricted. Though presented in magazine format, similar to LIFE, the articles are fascinating to read, and the photographs are stunning. Each is 8.5" x 11" in size and page count varies from 50 to 72, including some fold outs to show panoramic target photos. Contents include mostly photos of combat, target photos, photo recon photos of damage and aftermath images from bot the ETO, CBI and Pacific. Articles on specific aircraft and one fantastic section on the prototype P-80 jet. Show some wear, and holes have been punched for storing in a binder. Extremely rare!
Price for all 3.
$120 / £93 /€108 email to secure this item
 AAF IMPACT Magazine |  AAF IMPACT Magazine |
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 AAF IMPACT Magazine |  AAF IMPACT Magazine |
 AAF IMPACT Magazine |  AAF IMPACT Magazine |
 AAF IMPACT Magazine |  DSCNAAF IMPACT Magazine |
 AAF IMPACT Magazine |  AAF IMPACT Magazine |
 AAF IMPACT Magazine |  AAF IMPACT Magazine |
 AAF IMPACT Magazine |  AAF IMPACT Magazine |
 AAF IMPACT Magazine |  AAF IMPACT Magazine |
 AAF IMPACT Magazine |
Battle of Britain. First edition of the official booklet published by H.M. Stationery Office shortly after the Battle was over.
This booklet was published many times throughout, and after, the war - but in its very first version it was rather dry and austere, lacking any of the illustrations or diagrams found later editions. 32-pages sharing a modest yet vivid account of the Battle of Britain with the British people for the first time. Itself a piece of history. I own several editions but this first edition is perhaps the most significant, published in April 1941, at a time when things were not looking too good for the British people and they needed to be reminded of the glorious victory that had taken pace just a few months earlier. Excellent condition.
$20 / £15 / €18 email to secure this item
 Battle of Britain booklet |
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 Battle of Britain booklet |
 Battle of Britain booklet |
 Battle of Britain booklet |
US Army / Navy V-Mail letter, blank, unused.
Blank, unused V-Mail letter. Great item for any AAF display. Slightly creased but no tears and complete with all instructions (instructions take up half the space!).
£15 / $20 / €18 email to secure this item
 Blank, unused V-Mail letter |  Blank, unused V-Mail letter |
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 Blank, unused V-Mail letter |  Blank, unused V-Mail letter |
US Navy Aviation Circular Letter 35-43 regarding ferrying of naval aircraft.
18-page letter containing full and detailed instructions for the ferrying of naval aircraft. A very interesting document, which includes a one-page amendment letter attached at the back. Of added interest is the fact that both the letter and the amendment are signed by Admiral J.S. McCain, Deputy Chief of Air Operations and of course the father of the later Senator John McCain.
£40 / $50 / €45 email to secure this item
 USN orders: Ferrying Naval Aircraft |
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 USN orders: Ferrying Naval Aircraft |
 USN orders: Ferrying Naval Aircraft |
 USN orders: Ferrying Naval Aircraft |
 USN orders: Ferrying Naval Aircraft |
Luftwaffe Messerschmidt Bf 109 G-8 aircraft handbook.
The companion to the above: a very old reprint of the original "Pilot's Notes" for the Me Bf 109 G-8 which was fitted with a 20mm canon firing though the nose cone of the propellor. A separate insert sheet includes a diagram of the gun, the MG151/20B. Though just 12 pages (plus the 2-sided insert) it has comprehensive information on the aircraft. First issued in November1943 and reprinted June 1944, though I believe this reprint was probably made in the 1960s.
£15 / $20 / €18 email for more details
 LW Messerschmidt Bf109G pilot notes |
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 LW Messerschmidt Bf109G pilot notes |
 LW Messerschmidt Bf109G pilot notes |
 LW Messerschmidt Bf109G pilot notes |
RARE and important official report of the Committee of Alleged German Outrages, 1915.
Published in 1915 (the war had only been going for a year) this 60-page booklet documents a series of atrocities committed by German troops against civilians as well as enemy soldiers, town by town. This is a series of first-hand eyewitness accounts of what amounts to serious accusations of war crimes and, though written in a most dignified manner (as the British do best) it doesn't pull any punches. Of note is the fact that the committee was appointed on 15th December 1914, less than four months after the war began, suggesting that the British Government was aware of these outrages very early on. A very good read and well worth a place on the shelf of anyone interested in the early history of the Great War.
$80 / £58 / €68 email for more details
 WWI "Alleged German Outrages" |
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 WWI "Alleged German Outrages" |
 WWI "Alleged German Outrages" |
 WWI "Alleged German Outrages" |
 WWI "Alleged German Outrages" |
South African Air Force magazine from Queenstown SA, "The Signal" x 3 issues.
Interesting and well produced magazine from Queenstown SAAF base. 3 copies dated December 1942, February and August 1943 with station news, sports, humour, photographs, cartoons and a lot of great sarcasm! Also wonderful period advertising. First two are 48-pages plus cover, last one is 40 pages. Very good condition, some slight wear to covers. Great read for insight into SAAF life at the time.
£35 / $45 / €40 for all 3
 SAAF Queenstown "The Signal" |  SAAF Queenstown "The Signal" |
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 SAAF Queenstown "The Signal" |  SAAF Queenstown "The Signal" |
Daily Express War Map showing all fronts.
Printed and published 1942.
An interesting very large format full colour map showing the state of affairs in WWII in 1942. Presented with the Daily Express (proclaiming itself to be "The World
s Greatest Newspaper"). Has been folded but retains nice bright colours and very good condition, with a few crosses and slightly grubby outside from storage but no damage.
£25 / $35 / €29 email for more details
 Daily Express War Map |
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 Daily Express War Map |
 Daily Express War Map |
 Daily Express War Map |
 Daily Express War Map |
1944 Directory of AAF Stations and Activities
Useful and extensive book which lists every AAF Station AND its activities as of April 1944 - tgis includes all bases in the US and overseas. Very valuable research information. I believe this is a more recent reprint but there is nothing that says so. However it is priced accordingly.
£28 / $35 / €30 email for more details
 WWII Directory of AAF bases |
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 WWII Directory of AAF bases |
 WWII Directory of AAF bases |
 WWII Directory of AAF bases |
 WWII Directory of AAF bases |
Official Air Ministry manual / dossier for Avro Lancaster B Mk III ME545 and the Round the World Flight of 1946.
The official, original Air Ministry manual prepared for and used on a historic round the world flight, departing from RAF Watton on October 21st, 1946 and returning on December 17th. Her mission, as an equipment test bed with the Radio Warfare Establishment & Central Signal Establishment at RAF Upwood and RAF Watton was to service test radio communications, navigation, radar and radio direction finding equipment, British and American, in place at RAF stations throughout the world. This dossier includes lists of all equipment being tested (much of which was secret and classified at the time), route maps of the flight, technical data on ground receiving stations and RAF stations en route, frequencies used, reports and detailed results. The minutes of all meetings, both prior to, during and after the flight are included. Historical notes include problems to be anticipated en route in certain areas (India, Suez etc), which were still under British rule at the time. A fascinating and historic document containing information that contributed greatly to the future defence of Great Britain and the Commonwealth.
Approx. 100 pages including fold-out maps, checklists etc.
Prior to the Round the World flight, ME545 served operationally in WWII with 186 Sqn, 218 Sqn (code XH-L nose art “Lovely Lou”), 22 MU, 15 MU and 38 MU before being transferred to the Radio Warfare Establishment & Central Signal Establishment at RAF Upwood (as WB-E) and RAF Watton (as V7-E).
The aircraft was scrapped, 25 April 1950. Some copy photos are included.
$70 / £50 / €58 email for more details
 Avro Lancaster round-the-world $75 |
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 Avro Lancaster round-the-world $75 |
 Avro Lancaster round-the-world $75 |
 Avro Lancaster round-the-world $75 |
 Avro Lancaster round-the-world $75 |
 Avro Lancaster round-the-world $75 |
 Avro Lancaster round-the-world $75 |
 Avro Lancaster round-the-world $75 |
 Avro Lancaster round-the-world $75 |
Complete set of five WWII factory manuals PLUS General Service Notes for the Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer maritime bomber / reconnaissance aircraft (sometimes referred to as the US Navy version of the B-24)
Set of five official factory published hardback manuals for the often underrated Consolidated PB4Y-2 aircraft, together with the softcover General Service Notes.
Flight Manual. 92 Pages, dated 1945
Airplane General and Armament. 212 (Airplane gneral) + 42 (Armament) pages. dated 1944
Power Plant. 206 pages. dated 1944
Hydraulics. 198 pages. dated 1945
Electricity. 148 pages. dated 1944
General Service Notes. (softcover) 326 pages. dated 1945
Overall condiiton is very good, with a little wear and bumping to the outsides, the gold leaf titling has tarnished with age but the bindings are solid. Softcover shows some wear, rubbing to outside.
$285 / £205 / €240 email for more details
 PB4Y-2 Manuals |
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 PB4Y-2 Manuals |
 PB4Y-2 Manuals |
 PB4Y-2 Manuals |
Incredible Arado AR95 aircraft sales and marketing brochure with acetate overlays dated August, 1938.
One of the most impressive paper items I have ever owned, this has been in my collection for several years, largely because, as a graphic designer I am fascinated by the print production of this amazing piece. Measuring 30 cm x 21 cm (12" x 8.5") it includes a series of 6 acetate sheets, each printed with alternate versions of armament and other configurations in multiple colours, which overlay on top of each other to show the various options available. Even by today's standards, this is a magnificent piece of graphic design, well executed and very high quality. It is printed in both German and English, showing that as late as 1938, German business was very much geared up to trading with Britain and the USA. It also includes onion skin endpapers, a fold out flap with aircraft profile and a typewritten sheet of customized specs at the back. The whole brochure is 36 pages and retains its original bright colours. The acetate cover has some minor loss at the spine and one taped repair to the back - but these do not deatrcat from a rare and fantastic piece of history. The Arado AR95 was a very versatile single engined reconnaissance biplane which was used by both the Luftwaffe and the Kriegsmarine as well as other air forces.
$450 / £345 / €405 email for more details
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
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 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
 LW Arado 95 sales brochure, 1938 |
US army first issue Kevlar ballistic helmet instruction manual.
24-page instruction booklet as issued with the first pattern ballistic helmet - the one that replaced the M-1 in the 1980s.
£8 / $10 / €8.50 email to secure this item
 US Kevlar helmet instruction book |
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 US Kevlar helmet instruction book |
 US Kevlar helmet instruction book |
 US Kevlar helmet instruction book |