Vintage Flying Helmets
Aviation, military and historical items for discerning collectors
SALES August 2023
(click on pictures to enlarge)
Autographed copy of "Shot Down", by Ben H. Phelper, waist gunner on "Sack Time."
Sergeant Ben Phelper kept his "Wartime log" as isused by the Red Cross, and used it for telling his story of being shot down over Germany, complete with his own drawings. Each page is neatly written by hand and illustrated by the author (he used ink made from coffee grounds to keep the original). He had a limited quantity of these books printed in 1947 and this is one of those first and only editions. It is signed and dedicated by the author in 1951. A fantastic and rare piece of 8th Air Force history. The artwork and the story are quite amazing! 58 pages, soft cover.
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Scarce RAF 1930 Pattern Sidcot Suit.
These are becoming more and more difficult to find. While the 1940 and especiallly the 41 pattern Sidcot suits are still available, the 1930 Pattern, synonymous with aircrews early in the war and even Battle of Britain fighter pilots (notably Douglas Bader, who wore a 1930 Pattern suit with his tin legs already installed for stand-by) are seldom encountered. Made from oiled cotton - the same grey-green fabric as used for the 1932 Pattern life vest - they were originally intended for use in open cockpits, but remained popular throughout the war. This example has a 1940 dated label, the A-crown-M stamp and a 1941 inspection stamp, as well as various other ink stamps. It shows a lot of use and quite a few period repairs (typical rigger repairs with multiple rows of reinforcement stitching). The edges around the collar, cuffs and ankles are worn, as are the sleeves around the zip fasteners, and there are a few holes in the suit, though not large or in highly visible areas. All zips are original and in good working order, except the right sleeve, which has lost its slider, but is otherwise intact. Several buttons are missing from the inside (for the button-in lining and fur collar). The half-belt which fastens at the rear, has been removed (a fairly common modification, since it served very little purpose). For all its faults, this is a nice original 1930 Pattern suit with lots of honest wear, and it displays very well.
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RAF toggle rope for the 1941 Pattern Life Vest.
Toggle rope for the 1941 pattern life vest. One end was sewn securely into the opening between the vest and the flotation chamber, and the wooden toggle was used for attaching to the dingy, supplies and survival equipment or to another ditched airman - to anything necessary for survival. This example is unissued and unused. If yours is missing or if you just want an example for a display or survival gear, this is perfect.
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Wellsworth Service goggles, early 20th century.
Circular amber lens goggles in polished frames with mesh surrounds, typical of the type worn by many servicemen in WWI for their protective quality and amber lenses which cut through haze. Similar to the style popularized by Willson Optical, these are branded Wellsworth across the bridge. High quality manufacture ad fitted with an elastic strap although they were available with conventional spring cable side arms as well. Elastic strap is stretched out and needs a bit of tidying up but these will display well. Worn by drivers, motorcyclists and aviators before and during WWI.
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AAF AN-S-31A summer flying suit, size 40.
The AN-S-31 and AN-S-31A summer flying suits replaced the A-4 in 1943 and was intended for both the AAF and the USN, however each branch used its own contractors and the Navy suits were made from tan/khaki cotton, while the AAF continued using Olive Drab wool. The pattern is similar to the A-4 suit and this example is in excellent condition, and retains its belt - often missing. Good smooth working Talon two-way zip fastener. Shows evidence of wear but no damage and a good size 40.
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WWI French Flying Goggles by Express Brevet.
Excellent pair of WWI era flying goggles, typical of the style worn by aviators of all the combat air forces circa 1915-1918, most likely purchased from a Paris department store. Manufactured by Express Brevet, a commonly found maker of the period. Plated frames with hinged spring release for lenses; cylindrical glass lenses (very difficult to produce); grey-green wool knit surrounds with good springs for a snug fit, leather trim and elastic strap with a hook fastening. Condition is excellent, the fragile lenses are perfect - so many are found broken. Very clean, these seem unused.
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1920s - 1930s commercial goggles used by motorists, motorcyclists and aviators by Cesco of Chicago.
Lovely pair of goggles in the classic Art Deco style sold commercially in the 1920s and 30s and worn for all "extreme" sports of the day (flying, motoring and motorcyclng). Very similar to European styles often worn by sport glider pilots in Germany and elsewhere, but these were made in Chicago by the well known firm of Cesco. Acetate lenses in aluminium frames with a gum rubber cushion and and elastic strap. The strap and the leather bridge could be adjusted for a good fit.
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Excellent Luftwaffe Afrika Korps sidecap dated 1942.
Lovely example of the Luftwaffe desert uniform (Afrika Korps) side cap worn by other ranks serving in North Africa. Khaki cotton drill with a red cotton lining bearing a clear ink stamp identifying the tailor, together with a date of 1942 and size 58. Excellent eagle and cockade insignia on khaki backing. Minor storage wear - appears unissued. A rare find!
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Very early pair of Willson goggles in original case.
Willson optical were one of the pioneer companies in the production of protective eyewear. Though these would today be called spectacles or sunglasses, in 1912 there was a clear distinction between eyewear for optical/vision and eyewear for protection - anything for protection was referred to as goggles. These were for motorists, motorcyclists and were also adopted for use by aviators. Willson went on to become the leading supplier to US Naval aviators and it is likely these were worn for wind protection and also for haze. Excellent condition with original case and insert/instruction card (card has been taped but is all there).
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AAF B-15 flying jacket in excellent condition.
Extremely nice late war B-15 flying jacket in remarkable condition. Shows very little wear or use but lacks its original label. Knit cuffs and waistband are without damage, original Talon zip works perfectly, retains its thick lining and mouton collar, all in perfect condition. Printed AAF emblem to left upper arm is faded but clearly visible. Can't be sure of the size but externally is measures 23" from armpit to armpit. Nicest example I've seen in many years. Bargain priced because of the missing label.
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AAF officer's modified "Ike" jacket, 13th Air Force, label to a tailor in Brisbane, Australia.
Very unusual "Ike" jacket in dark green ("chocolate") gabardine wool, made by cutting down a standard officers 4-pocket tunic. The well-tailored modification was done by a tailor in Brisbane, Australia. Partial copper coloured satin lining in the neck and shoulder area and 3 button front with adjustment tabs at the waist for a tailored fit. 13th Air Force patch to right upper arm but no other insignia. No excessive wear or damage. An interesting and unusual pattern.
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AAF B-3 life vest, early style in excellent condition.
Early B-3 life vest in exceptional condition, dated September 3, 1942 with an inspection date of June 1943. There are various other markings on the leather patch to the front. Maker's marks and contract numbers are mostly legible - manufactured by Goodyear. Slightly grubby but overall a lovely example. The internal bladder still feels soft and pliable, rubber inflation tubes also in great condition. There is a one tiny area of fraying at the edge of the crotch strap. Has never been modified with the extra neck strap. These early B-3s are getting very difficult to find.
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Extremely rare female connector for the RAF 1941 pattern life vest / K dinghy pack.
Almost impossible to find on the loose, yet vital for completing a mid-to-late war RAF 1941 pattern Mae West. This example is in great condition, a few surface nicks and minor surface discolouration but no oxidation. Should be attached to one of the grab handles on the Mae West and then connected to the K-Dinghy pack which forms the seat cushoion of the parachute.
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RAF folding machete as issued with the jungle survival kit and Beadon suit, 1945 dated.
One of the more difficult items to find in order to complete the RAF jungle survival kit and Beadon suit contents. The folding machete is complete with its protective blade sheath and is well marked and dated 1945. In addition to the maker's name and hallmark (G. Butler & Co with a "key" logo) it is broad arrow marked on the blade and the handle, and is also inscribed "Made In England". Blade has some minor nicks and discolouration but overall a very good example.
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Fantastic grouping of photographs and personal diary grouping to a RAF Hurricane pilot KIA in North Africa.
This makes for some really interesting reading, made all the more poignant by the fact the he was killed shortly after his final entry. Diary runs from January to July 1942 (rest of the pages have been torn out). There is a lot of reference to scrambles, bombing and strafing raids by the Luftwaffe, life on base, occasional leave to places like Cairo, buying uniform items, making sweetheart wings out of perspex, as well as his fellow pilots and their all too frequent deaths. Flew with 229 and 274 squadrons, constantly retreating from one base to the next as the Germans advanced across North Africa in early 1942. Accompanied by some research, magazine articles and newspaper clippings /obituaries about those he flew with. 30 photographs, many annotated on the back.
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WWII US Tanker jacket, large size, often preferred by AAF aircrew.
Lovely WWII US Army Tanker jacket, second pattern (with slash pockets). Overall very good condition with some minor moth nips to the knit collar, waistband and cuffs. Some light staining to the heavy khaki cotton fabric. Heavy blanket wool lining and good working Conmar zip fastener. No label but large size (I would guess a 44-46" chest). Similar to the B-10 and B-15 flying jackets, these were primarily issued to tank/armoured vehicle crews but were often acquired and worn by AAF aircrews.
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Reproduction RAF 1936 Pattern Flying Boots in large size 11UK.
Beautifully made pair of modern manufacture 1936 Pattern Flying Boots in a huge size 11 UK (12 US). Perfect to fill a gap or for the re-enactor who has trouble finding the larger sizes. Excellent quality leather and made to a very high standard. Half the price of an original pair and safe to wear.
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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!
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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".
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Rare USSR / Soviet Air Force flying goggles with dark lenses.
Very rare and unusual Soviet Air Force flying goggles with dark tinted lenses, presumably for flying over snow covered terrain to avoid glare. Standard issue and typical construction for 1930s/early WWII period Soviet goggles; black leather mask with blackened frames and large hinged lenses. Fabric trim and fabric strap which was tied rather than elasticated. Very good condition and display well with the early leather cowl helmet.
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RAF "two-into-one" bell plug connector.
Used in multi-place aircraft where two aircraft crew-members would need to be plugged in to the same radio unit, such as the pilot and co-pilot at the controls. One RAF standard bell-shaped plug (as found on all wiring looms) with two female jacks into which the individual helmet wiring loom would be plugged. Excellent condition, no wear or damage.
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AAF Liaison Pilot Wing by Amcraft.
Absolutely superb full-size, 3" pinback Liaison Pilot Wing by distinguished and desirable maker, Amcraft. One piece strike, with crisp details and highly polished surface. Lovely raised hallmark to the back, Amcraft, Attleboro, Mass and sterling. One of the more scarce of the AAF pilot badges and a really nice example.
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RAF Mk VIII flying goggles, wartime production.
Excellent example of the Mk VIII goggles which tick the boxes for being wartime production. Blue-grey painted brass frames are flawless, with rolled edges, high, wide leather cushions lined with suede and good, clear lenses. They are stamped on the leather below the bridge with nomenclature and a broad arrow and double marked with an inspection stamp in white ink. The strap still has some elasticity. They show very light use but are overall excellent.
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RAF / SOE "Locket" style Escape Compass.
Very scarce escape compass contained in a sealed plastic pouch and attached to a cotton tape which was worn around the neck by RAF aircrews and SOE agents. One of many types of compass issued by MI9, this one was intended for easy and immediate access rather than concealment - and may have been intended to be found by enemy captors to dissuade them from looking too hard for the more well-concealed types! Unused condition, the compass still functions perfectly.
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Scarce WAAF service dress jacket and cap named to a corporal.
Far more scarce than the men's uniforms, the WAAF was a comparatively small service and uniforms are rarely found. This cap and jacket, named to a Corporal Bailey, together with her serial number, are in very good condition. The cap is clean overall, with a few very tiny nips, mostly under the folds of the gathered top, but these don't show or detract. The name is written on the underside of the peak. The jacket, labeled size 10 and dated 1942, is also extremely clean with one tiny hole alongside the front pocket. A lovely and quite rare uniform ensemble.
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RCAF wireless operator's tunic dated 1940.
Very good used example of a RCAF other ranks 4-pocket service dress uniform jacket with sergeant's stripes, Canada shoulder flashes and a nice embroidered wireless operator's "hand and thunderbolts" badge which was worn by aircrew until replaced by the WO or WAG half wing in 1942. Tunic is maker marked Ritchie, Harber & Co and dated 1940. A good early piece showing some wear and a small but neat repair to the right cuff, but otherwise no visible damage, just overall slightly worn and perhaps a little dusty. Lacks belt. Early examples are quite hard to come by.
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RAF Type H oxygen mask, 1966 dated.
Excellent RAF Type H oxygen mask, 1966 dated. Mask is like new, the rubber soft and pliable and the chamois lining very clean. Fitted with correct harness/straps and later (small) microphone - otherwise identical to the WWII issue. The longest serving oxygen mask - first produced in 1943 and still in use i the 1980s. Can be displayed with Types C, D, E, F and G helmets.
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RAF MK IVB flying goggles.
Decent displayable pair of RAF MK IVB flying goggles. Introduced in June 1940 at the exact same time as the Mk IV and IVA, The IVB proved to be the more robust and enduring of the three versions, and was thus produced in much larger numbers. Black painted brass frames with "windows" (lenses) in a separate skeleton frame, large loops which were actually designed for the goggles to slide up and down around the receiver cups. This pair is in very good condition; the frames have no dents or dings and 95% of the original paint remains. Rubber bumper pads have hardened as is typical (one has broken away). Lenses are exceptional, with only very minor delamination. The leather strap has a nice crisp A-crown-M stamp.
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Laryngaphone Mk II as used by Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm aircrews.
While the RAF rejected the use of laryngaphones (throat microphones) after testing before WWII broke out, the British Army adopted two similar models, the Mk I and Mk II, for use in tanks and armoured vehicles etc. The Fleet Air Arm also used these Army laryngaphones, modifying them by replacing the single-pin plug with a female jack to connect with the flying helmet communications system. This is an example of a Fleet Air Arm used laryngaphone Mk II (Army ref. ZA.27864). Excellent condition ready to plug in to the FAA flying helmet.
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RAF low-high impedance switch for external wiring loom (Type Q cord).
Swith box for installing on the RAF Type Q cord (external wiring loom) to enable the impedance on the communications system to be switched from low to high, depending on the type aircraft being flown. Typically, British aircraft were fitted with low impedance radios, while US aircraft used high-impedance. Since many aircraft were on the Lend-Lease program, crews needed to be able to switch aircraft without drawing entire new kit or having to rewire their helmets. Very good condition, no dings or dents and only minor paint loss. Well marked.
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AAF A-2 flying jacket by Spiewak in goatskin, excellent condition and size 40.
Absolutely superb and 100% original AAF A-2 jacket by Spiewak, in the more scarce (and in my opinion, better looking and definitely more wearable) goatskin. The leather is in fabulous condition, soft and pliable with very little wear. The lining shows some use and the usual wear areas inside the neck and the collar but no serious damage. The waistband is in great condition; cuffs show some snagging but nothing too detract too much. Great label and nice large AAF emblem printed inside. Crown zip fastener works perfectly; all hooks, snaps and grommets are in place. Never had a patch or a name tag. Very hard to find an original that has never been messed with these days - a beautiful example of this iconic jacket in a great size 40.
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RAF 1941 Pattern Mae West stole (bladder) with inflation lever.
One of the hardest accessories to find to complete a RAF display. This stole (bladder) is in excellent condition, completely soft and pliable, including the inflation tube, and is fitted with the correct chrome plated lever mechanism to operate the cartridge inflation system. Stole is fine weave cream coloured cotton covered rubber, making it an early production (1941-42) and has a crisp Air Ministry marking and patent number. No date, which perhaps suggests it was never even issued. The lever is A-crown-M marked. A few minor storage blemishes to the fabric but this one would be very difficult to upgrade.
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Early Luftwaffe pilot's badge by C.E.Juncker, Berlin.
Lovely example of an early C.E.Juncker pilots badge, generally referred to as the J2 pattern. Constructed in two pieces of die-struck nickel-silver / tombak, the swooping eagle is burnished has burnished black finish and the wreath is silver plated. The maker stamp isn't the cleanest strike, but that is not a detraction to this lovely badge, which shows even wear and a good patina. Good tight hinge and pin, the catch very slightly bent but does not stop it closing and could easily be bent back with care.
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Royal Flying Corps "swagger" stick top/finial.
Back the days of the Great War, every Army officer carried a "swagger" stick or cane and most had it topped with their regimental crest. This is a beautiful example of one which belonged to a Royal Flying Corps pilot, because it features not just the RFC crest, but a beautiful and deeply embossed stylized pilot wing. The detail on the feathering is just exquisite. Most likely silver but not marked as such, the cane is long since detached but this could easily be remounted to a new one. Approximately 2.5" high. Gorgeous testimony to a long dead tradition and a brave pilot.
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