Vintage Flying Helmets
Aviation, military and historical items for discerning collectors
SALES March 2019
SALES March 2019
(click on pictures to enlarge)
(click on pictures to enlarge)
AAF WWII Type B-3A flying gloves.
Good used pair of B-3A lightweight, unlined leather flying gloves as worn by both the AAF and USN in WWII, though the are nice marked to the AAF, and in a large size 11. Leather is good, though shows use and some surface wear but is still pliable and displays well. Excellent markings inside.
SOLD
![]() AAF B-3A flying gloves | ![]() AAF B-3A flying gloves |
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![]() AAF B-3A flying gloves |
WWII RAAF tropical flying helmet, wired with receivers cord and plug with wiring for microphone.
This is the first of this type helmet I have ever even seen, let alone been able to offer. Very similar in design to the RAF Type E, it is made from olive green Airtex cotton, unlined except for a terry-toweling brow and edge. It has a neck flap similar to the RAF Type D, which unsnaps for access to tie tapes but is not detachable. There are various tie-tapes across the top and at the sides, perhaps for securing the wiring loom? Helmet has chamois pads inside and standard rubber ear cups for receivers which are fitted, and a snap/buckle chin-cup similar to Canadian helmets but also made of green Airtex. Wiring loom is shorter and narrower gauge than the RAF type. Best of all it has a wonderful RAAF linen label with its V--330 contract number and date of 1944. There is also a name "Heath" written inside. Shows use but no abuse or damage and is in very good condition.
SOLD
![]() RAAF tropical flying helmet |
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![]() RAAF tropical flying helmet |
![]() RAAF tropical flying helmet |
![]() RAAF tropical flying helmet |
![]() RAAF tropical flying helmet |
![]() RAAF tropical flying helmet |
![]() RAAF tropical flying helmet |
![]() RAAF tropical flying helmet |
WWII RAAF Type A-8 oxygen mask manufactured by Dunlop Rubber Co.
Another incredibly rare oxygen mask in overall excellent condition. Dunlop of Australia produced these masks under license from Ohio Chemical for issue to RAAF and US pilots based "down under" flying US built aircraft with constant flow oxygen systems as well as some Australian aircraft. The mask is actually made from a higher grade of rubber and has therefore survived better. It also has a chamois lining to protect the wearer's face. The bladder / bag is much more robust than US made types and even though is has some minor damage from being folded in storage, it it is pliable and solid. Rubber straps are also good and retain the clip on the left; I presume it would fasten on the right with a clip of the type used with the US A-10 Revised mask (which I can supply). Marked with RAAF nomenclature and stores ref. 66D/ 547 with a manufacture date of 07/43. A remarkable and rare find.
SOLD
![]() RAAF A-8 oxygen mask dated 43 |
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![]() RAAF A-8 oxygen mask dated 43 |
![]() RAAF A-8 oxygen mask dated 43 |
![]() RAAF A-8 oxygen mask dated 43 |
![]() RAAF A-8 oxygen mask dated 433234 |
![]() RAAF A-8 oxygen mask dated 43 |
![]() RAAF A-8 oxygen mask dated 43 |
![]() RAAF A-8 oxygen mask dated 43 |
RAF communications adaptor to allow wartime issue bell plug to connect to NATO type output.
Female bakelite plug accepts the standard wartime RAF bell plug and the converts to the later NATO style plug for use in aircraft fitted with later radio equipment. Excellent condition.
SOLD
![]() RAF Wartime comms adaptor | ![]() RAF Wartime comms adaptor |
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AAF T-30-S throat microphone.
One of several variants of the T-30 throat microphone used by AAF pilots and aircrews offered. Each contracted manufacturer was given a suffix letter. This T-30-S was made by Universal Microphone Co. of Inglewood, California. Very good condition with complete elasticity left in the strap. Boxed with instruction sheet, plus "M" clip for tightening the fit on the larynx. Excellent example.
SOLD
![]() AAF T-30-S throat mic. boxed |
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![]() AAF T-30-S throat mic. boxed |
![]() AAF T-30-S throat mic. boxed |
![]() AAF T-30-S throat mic. boxed |
![]() AAF T-30-S throat mic. boxed |
![]() AAF T-30-S throat mic. boxed |
RAF Type D oxygen mask hose (replica) fitted with original Mk IIIB Bayonet Union.
Original WWII period hoses for the Type D mask are extremely difficult to find in good condition. This reproduction hose is correct in every detail; 5 ft long black rubber tubing with a braided fabric covering in black with a yellow fleck; and fitted with an original Mk IIIB Bayonet Union in brass, well marked with stores reference data and attached in the correct fashion with linen whipping.
SOLD
![]() RAF D mask hose and connector |
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![]() RAF D mask hose and connector |
![]() RAF D mask hose and connector |
![]() RAF D mask hose and connector |
RAF Type H oxygen mask. Postwar but same as wartime issue with larger microphone.
Type H oxygen mask in very good condition. Dated 1965, but identical to the wartime issue with the large (Type 57) microphone installed. Rubber is excellent, if slightly grubby, chamois lining also very good but again a little grimy. Straps good. Lacks the rubber sleeve which covers the opening where the cable enters the mask, but this y be replaced or displayed as is. A very good mask, perfect for display.
SOLD
![]() RAF Type H oxygen mask 1965 dated | ![]() RAF Type H oxygen mask 1965 dated |
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![]() RAF Type H oxygen mask 1965 dated | ![]() RAF Type H oxygen mask 1965 dated |
![]() RAF Type H oxygen mask 1965 dated |
Scarce AAF "Juliet" strap for the A-10 Standard oxygen mask.
Very hard to find and almost always missing! This "Juliet" strap is in unissued condition and complete with all hooks and loops for attaching to the A-10 Standard oxygen mask, issued only for a short time to Air Corps pilots and crews. Has an ink stamp which is difficult to make out.
SOLD
![]() AAF A-10 mask Juliet Strap | ![]() AAF A-10 mask Juliet Strap |
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![]() AAF A-10 mask Juliet Strap |
WWII RAF 1941 pattern life vest reproduction.
I rarely offer reproduction items, though I do realize that there is a place for museum quality replicas in certain cases: for example to enable collectors to fill a gap with extremely rare or expensive items and variants, or for those who practice living history who wish to avoid wearing, and possibly damaging, authentic items. On offer here is a RAF 1941 pattern life vest or "Mae West" made by Pegasus. It is stunning in its accuracy and feel, being in my opinion a dead ringer for an original, the colour, fabric and features having been copied perfectly. The two big giveaways are the label, which is clearly modern and not an original contract, and the zip fastener - which though a Lightning zip of the style used in WWII, is lighter, thinner and has no Air Ministry mark. Otherwise this is a quite excellent reproduction, intended primarily for re-enactors. It shows some use. With price of originals creeping up rapidly, this is a great alternative for anyone looking to fill a gap or to wear for living history at a fraction of the price of an original.
SOLD
![]() RAF 1941 pattern life vest REPRO |
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![]() RAF 1941 pattern life vest REPRO |
![]() RAF 1941 pattern life vest REPRO |
![]() RAF 1941 pattern life vest REPRO |
![]() RAF 1941 pattern life vest REPRO |
![]() RAF 1941 pattern life vest REPRO |
![]() RAF 1941 pattern life vest REPRO |
![]() RAF 1941 pattern life vest REPRO |
![]() DSCN1978RAF 1941 pattern life vest R |
Scarce AAF training booklet on the Memphis Belle, "25 Missions" published to raise morale of aircrews about to ship overseas after the aircraft returned to the US in 1943.
Publicity booklet published July, 1943, as a training aid by the AAF after Memphis Belle returned home from England having completed 25 missions. Includes list of missions, photograph of the crew and biography of all crew members. 36-pages, approx. 4" x 7". Restricted publication.
SOLD
![]() AAF Memphis Belle book 25 missions |
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![]() AAF Memphis Belle book 25 missions |
![]() AAF Memphis Belle book 25 missions |
![]() AAF Memphis Belle book 25 missions |
![]() AAF Memphis Belle book 25 missions |
![]() AAF Memphis Belle book 25 missions |
![]() AAF Memphis Belle book 25 missions |
![]() AAF Memphis Belle book 25 missions |
WWII AAF detachable embroidered pilot wing on khaki cotton for tropical uniform.
h tied at the bottom with a ribbon. A lovely badge. Full size, embroidered pilot wing on khaki cotton backing with snap fasteners for summer flight suit or uniform tunic / shirt. Excellent condition. An unusual variation.
SOLD
![]() AAF detachable pilot wing on khaki | ![]() AAF detachable pilot wing on khaki |
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RARE Royal Flying Corps early cowl type flying helmet, together with a full length issue leather coat.
One of the nicest examples of a RFC cowl helmet I have come across, together with the best full-length leather RFC issue flying coat I have ever seen. Early Cowl helmet is without the earflaps (never had them) and still has it's fur half-lining intact except for a very small patch by the mouth. Has names crossed out and initials EH plus serial number. Top condition; leather is soft and pliable with no damage and chamois lining is excellent. The RFC coat is simply stunning. A few minor surface rubs and scuffs and a little grubby from use / storage but no damage. Has reinforcement patches on lower sleeves that were obviously put on before coat was worn, neatly sewn by hand. Retains all original buttons, leg straps, just superb overall. Prefer to keep them together and sell as a set, but if no interest will consider splitting them.
SOLD
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
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![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat255 |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
Superb pair of RAF Battle of Britain Mk IIIa Flying Goggles.
The cleanest, best looking set of Mk IIIa flying goggles I have ever seen. These appear to be unissued; the frames are clean and retain 100% of their original blackened finish. Straps function perfectly, with no separation to the springs. Leather strap has superb Air Ministry property markings and a clear 1939 date (though someone has tried - and failed - to rub away the A-crown-M). Lenses are lightly scratched but not yellowed like most. Velvet pads are like new (though foam rubber padding inside has stiffened up). Trumpet vents and stoppers still present and secure. These would be almost impossible to upgrade.
SOLD
![]() RAF Mk IIIa Flying Goggles | ![]() RAF Mk IIIa Flying Goggles |
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![]() RAF Mk IIIa Flying Goggles | ![]() RAF Mk IIIa Flying Goggles |
Valuable reference book of Japanese aviation terminology / translations.
Compiled and edited by Squadron Leader A. R. Boyce of the RAF in 1944, this glossary / dictionary is more like an encyclopaedia of Japanese aviation terminology, covering everything from battle tactics to aircraft part names and weather and much more. 10" x 6.5" (255mm x 162mm) 438-pages with soft cloth bound cover showing the Japanese Kanji alongside the phonetic pronunciation and English translation. For any student, scholar or researcher of Japanese aviation history, this would be an invaluable tool.
An extremely rare book.
SOLD
![]() Japanese Air / Aviation Terms |
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![]() Japanese Air / Aviation Terms |
![]() Japanese Air / Aviation Terms |
![]() Japanese Air / Aviation Terms |
![]() Japanese Air / Aviation Terms861 |
![]() Japanese Air / Aviation Terms |
AAF ANB-H-1 telephone receiver cups MX-41/AR for headset or flying helmet.
Nice pair of MX-41/AR rubber receiver cups for the ANB-H-1 telephone receivers. These were attached to the HB-7 headband or could be sewn to the A-8, A-9.B-5, B-6 flying helmet for installing radio communications. Made by fusing a hard rubber exterior to a soft, sponge rubber cushion. Excellent used conditon. One pair.
SOLD
![]() AAF ANB-H-1 receiver cups MX-41/AR |
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![]() AAF ANB-H-1 receiver cups MX-41/AR |
![]() AAF ANB-H-1 receiver cups MX-41/AR |
RARE Royal Flying Corps full length leather coat together with early cowl type flying helmet.
One of the nicest examples of a RFC cowl helmet I have come across, together with the best full-length leather RFC issue flying coat I have ever seen. Early Cowl helmet is without the earflaps (never had them) and still has it's fur half-lining intact except for a very small patch by the mouth. Has names crossed out and initials EH plus serial number. Top condition; leather is soft and pliable with no damage and chamois lining is excellent. The RFC coat is simply stunning. A few minor surface rubs and scuffs and a little grubby from use / storage but no damage. Has reinforcement patches on lower sleeves that were obviously put on before coat was worn, neatly sewn by hand. Retains all original buttons, leg straps and press studs, just superb overall. Clean blanket lining is clean and shows no damage. Large map pocket to chest, thigh pocket on left hand side and interior pocket. Prefer to keep them together and sell as a set, but if no interest will consider splitting them.
SOLD
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
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![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat255 |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
![]() RFC Cowl helmet and coat |
WWII AAF pilot wing, full-size in bullion wire
A beautiful example of a US Army Air Forces bullion wire embroidered pilot wing on a tan / khaki background, uncut and never sewn on. Lovely even tarnish / patina to the silver thread. This came from the estate of a "Hump" pilot many years ago.
SOLD
![]() AAF pilot wing bulliion |
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![]() AAF pilot wing bulliion |
Luftwaffe model 306 flying goggles.
Lovely example of early wartime issue Luftwaffe flying goggles. The large lenses allow maximum visibility and deflection of debris. Two main types were worn, prior to the introduction of the small "anti-splinter" goggles; the model 295 with a one piece face cushion, and these model 306 with separate cushions. The advantage of the separate cushions was that the goggles were adjustable by a bridge screw and offered a better fit. This example is in excellent condition; the rubber cushions are still flexible and the strap still has some elasticity. Lenses are bright and the painted frames are clean with 99% of their paint intact. No markings that I can find.
SOLD
![]() LW model 306 Flying Goggles | ![]() LW model 306 Flying Goggles |
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![]() LW model 306 Flying Goggles |
Luftwaffe survival kit protective goggles.
Made by Nitsche and Gunther, Rathenow, these goggles were designed to protect the wearer from both sun and wind, dust and spray, in the event they were shot down and found themselves in either desert or sea. 55% tinted lenses (Ultrasin) in blackened metal frames with leather mask for a good facial seal and a cotton + elastic strap. Goggles are in excellent condition, appear unused, and are still contained in their original leatherette pouch, together with their instruction booklet. The paper is weak and has some tears and damage but is complete. These are not all that common - and photographic evidence suggests that on occasion, pilots wore these for flying, with a pair of Model 295 or 306 goggles over the top.
SOLD
![]() Luftwaffe survival kit goggles |
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![]() Luftwaffe survival kit goggles |
![]() Luftwaffe survival kit goggles |
![]() Luftwaffe survival kit goggles |
![]() Luftwaffe survival kit goggles |
Ultra rare AAF WW2 Type A-15A oxygen mask with box, accessories and instructions.
One of, if not the, rarest US oxygen masks of the wartime era. The A-15 and A-15A were extensions of the pressure demand mask development that were abruptly discontinued in favor of the A-13 developed by MSA and Acushnet which remained in service as the MS22001 for the next 50 years. The A-15 was a Bulbulian mask developed at Ohio Chemical (who produced the A-14). This example, while not is perfect condition, is very displayable. For the most part the rubber is perfectly pliable. It has been folded in storage and as a result has hardened slightly and cracked at the edges of the skirt. This is worse on the upper right hand side which has a 1" (25mm) split parallel to the edge which has hardened. There is a .25" (5mm) split on the left hand side. The mask is still pliable enough to be placed on a helmet and displayed on a head (where the damaged part would be concealed under the sides of the helmet). The rest of the rubber, including the hose, is fine. Mask is dated 1945 and comes in its original box dated September 1945, with accessories and 3 separate interactions sheets: one for the mask; one for the valve and one for the hose connection. These are very rarely seen. Priced according to its condition.
SOLD
![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask | ![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask |
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![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask | ![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask |
![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask | ![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask |
![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask | ![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask |
![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask | ![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask |
![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask | ![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask |
![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask | ![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask |
![]() AAF Type A-15A oxygen mask |
Superb AAF Type D-1 Cold Weather face mask.
The Type D-1 Cold Weather Face Mask was an attempt at alleviating the biggest problem suffered by AAF aircrews in the entire war - frostbite. Frostbite accounted for more casualties than enemy action and put trained aircrews out of action for a long time - sometimes permanently - and the most exposed area was the face (nose, lips etc). Other facemasks had been tested but could not be made to integrate with the oxygen mask. The D-1 was specifically designed to fit with the A-14 mask, hence the nasal opening was stiffered yet maleable to permit a fairly tight fit within the nose of the mask. The D-1 also fit snugly under the wearer's chin. It was made of thick felt so that oxygen would not seep out. In the end it wasn't a huge success, largely because the crewmen didn't like wearing it - the felt was uncomfortable especially when the wearer sweat in it. Examples today are not common but no 8th Air Force bomber crew collection is complete without one! Condition is unissued, near perfect, with no wear, soiling or damage and still retining its shape. Great spec. label and nice clear AN stamp at the end of the forehead strap.
SOLD
![]() AAF D-1 Face mask |
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![]() AAF D-1 Face mask |
![]() AAF D-1 Face mask |
![]() AAF D-1 Face mask |
![]() AAF D-1 Face mask |
![]() AAF D-1 Face mask |
WWII "Yank in the RAF" Service Dress Uniform tunic and matching trousers.
Lovely example of a RAF uniform with matching trousers which evidently belonged to an American volunteer, because of the USA shoulder flashes. Though this uniform is unidentified, it came with the 2 US Navy pilots uniforms listed blow, both of which are named to "Tyner". It is worth researching the name to see if there was a Tyner who served with the RAF and then with the US Navy, or if perhaps it was a family member (which is more likely, given that one of the USN uniforms has a WWI British medal ribbon). All 3 uniforms have identical, very old laundry tags attached. This uniform was an "Off the peg" RAF stores issue (uncommon but not unique for officers, especially foreigners) which has then been professionally custom altered to fit, including shortening the waist and moving a buttonhole. The trousers have been similarly re-tailored. Evidence of VR badges to the lapels (now missing). Excellent early, heavily-padded, silk RAF pilot wing. Each uniform is offered separately, but if anyone is interested in taking all, I will be happy to offer a better price for purchasing the three.
SOLD
![]() RAF "Yank in RAF" SD uniform |
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![]() RAF "Yank in RAF" SD uniform |
![]() RAF "Yank in RAF" SD uniform |
![]() RAF "Yank in RAF" SD uniform |
![]() RAF "Yank in RAF" SD uniform |
![]() RAF "Yank in RAF" SD uniform |
![]() RAF "Yank in RAF" SD uniform |
![]() RAF "Yank in RAF" SD uniform |
![]() RAF "Yank in RAF" SD uniform |
WWII USN Aviator's Green Service Dress Uniform tunic and matching trousers (Tyner #1).
The first of two US Navy aviator's uniforms named to Tyner. Aviation green tunic with matching trousers and rank of Lieutenant, with superb bullion embroidered pilot wings and medal ribbons which include the WWI British War Medal. AS mentioned, this came with the RAF uniform above and another USN aviator uniform (below). All have identical old laundry tags and the 2 USN uniforms are named to Tyner. All show signs of being professionally custom tailored to fit. Condition is very good, no damage or excessive wear, just a couple of minor snags and one of two very small moth nips in hidden areas.
SOLD
![]() USN Pilot uniform Tyner #1 |
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![]() USN Pilot uniform Tyner #1 |
![]() USN Pilot uniform Tyner #1 |
![]() USN Pilot uniform Tyner #1 |
![]() USN Pilot uniform Tyner #1 |
![]() USN Pilot uniform Tyner #1 |
![]() USN Pilot uniform Tyner #1 |
WWII USN Aviator's Green Service Dress Uniform tunic and matching trousers (Tyner #2).
The second of two US Navy aviator's uniforms named to Tyner. Aviation green tunic with matching trousers and rank of Lieutenant, with lovely, well-tarnished bullion embroidered pilot wings . This came with the RAF uniform and other USN aviator uniform (above). All have identical old laundry tags and the 2 USN uniforms are named to Tyner. This one also has a tag requesting a replacement zipper in the trousers, which was evidently carried out flawlessly. All show signs of being professionally custom tailored to fit. Condition is very good, no damage or excessive wear, just a couple of minor snags and one of two very small moth nips in hidden areas.
SOLD
![]() USN aviator uniform Tyner 2 |
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![]() USN aviator uniform Tyner 2 |
![]() USN aviator uniform Tyner 2 |
![]() USN aviator uniform Tyner 2 |
![]() USN aviator uniform Tyner 2 |
![]() USN aviator uniform Tyner 2 |
![]() USN aviator uniform Tyner 2 |
![]() USN aviator uniform Tyner 2 |
Copy of Top Secret Atomic Bomb orders signed by Colonel Paul Tibbets.
A photocopy of the original order from the War Department Chief of Staff to General Carl Spatz regarding the delivery of atomic bombs (referred to as as "special" bombs) to the 509th Bomb Group with detailed instructions for the missions. Order is dated July 25, 1945 - just days before the missions were to take place, and includes the designated targets for the bombs as they become available. The copy is hand signed by Paul Tibbets, commander of the 509th bomb group who flew the first atomic mission in his B-29, Enola Gay. This would make the perfect accompaniment to the above 509th Unit History.
SOLD
![]() Paul Tibbets signed document |
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![]() Paul Tibbets signed document |
Late WWII RAF MK VIII Flying Goggles.
I am confident that this pair of Mk VIII goggles is of wartime manufacture because I have seen and handled identical sets that came from veterans and were issued before April 1945. They tick all the boxes in terms of design: raised lip on the frames, high pads, suede backing and pads joined by webbing tape. They also have the edge of the nose guard sewn instead of left raw (a feature that was introduced during the war). Good crisp broad arrow mark and stores ref. number. Excellent condition with good strap and clear lenses showing very little signs of delamination.
SOLD
![]() WWII RAF Mk VIII goggles | ![]() WWII RAF Mk VIII goggles |
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![]() WWII RAF Mk VIII goggles | ![]() WWII RAF Mk VIII goggles |
WWII RAF officer's tunic to a Flying Officer and DFM winner with 578 sq. (Halifax III).
In excellent condition because he didn't wear this for very long! Flight Sergeant Conrad Ivan Baxter of 578 squadron, RAF. Navigator on Halifax III aircraft who flew a total of 38 combat ops, was recommended for the DFM and soon afterwards received a commission to Pilot Officer, later promoted to Flying Officer. Tunic is named and dated February 21, 1945, though he served from 1940. Note: like many, he preferred to keep his Observer wing even though the designation was changed to Navigator. Lovely, heavily padded "O" wing with ribbons for DFM, 39-45 star and France Germany Star with rosette. I have found 2 tiny holes on the back of the shoulder, beneath the collar - otherwise tunic shows very little wear and overall extremely clean. Unusual tailor: Boydell Brothers of Manchester. Great find with known history and possibility of a lot more research.
SOLD
![]() RAF P/O Observer tunic to DFM winner |
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![]() RAF P/O Observer tunic to DFM winner |
![]() RAF P/O Observer tunic to DFM winner |
![]() RAF P/O Observer tunic to DFM winner |
![]() RAF P/O Observer tunic to DFM winner |
![]() RAF P/O Observer tunic to DFM winner |
RARE 1940 dated RAF survival / signal mirror.
An improvised safety / survival device produced quickly for issue to Battle of Britain fighter pilots shot down in the English Channel, I believe these were actually made initially from the rear view mirrors installed in aircraft. Two types existed: one with a brass frame and one, like this, with a bakelite plastic frame. Both types are seen in period photographs and were later carried by aircrew in North Africa for use in the desert. Comprises a bakelite frame with circular mirror and a leather strap for attaching to the wrist or to the mae west. The frame is in perfect condition, as is the strap and buckle (surface rubbing to leather but this is heavy saddle leather and very strong). Glass is fine but there is some loss to the silvering which does not affect its display or function. Nice clear Air Ministry markings and 1940 date to back of frame.
SOLD
![]() RAF signal mirror 1940 |
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![]() RAF signal mirror 1940 |
![]() RAF signal mirror 1940 |
Amazing set of pre-war and early wartime flight navigation charts and maps identified to a Luftwaffe observer with 8/KG1, together with his notebook.
KG1 saw combat from the very earliest days in WWII, flying Heinkel 111 aircraft. These maps and charts were the property of Leutnant Wolf Kortemeier, an observer (navigator) and thus commander of his aircraft. Some bear his signature and notations. Overall very good condition with some edge nicks and minor tears here and there. Email for more information or additional photos.
The lot comprises 8 items total:
1. Scarce early Luftwaffe paper navigation chart with routes marked dated 1936
2. Huge blue waxed and linen backed chart of pre-war Germany and much of
Europe (shows Polish corridor marked). Approx 48" x 40"
3. Smaller blue linen backed chart of Germany dated 1938. 26" x 22"
4. Paper flight chart of Northern Germany (Kiel) dated 1936. 28" x 22"
5. Linen backed chart of European Russia dated Aug 1942. 26" x 35"
6. Pre-war Shell Oil aviator's chart of Germany dated 1.6.38. 24" x 24"
7. Pre-war Focke Wulf / Luft Hansa chart and distance gauge with routes
marked in pencil, dated November 1935. 17" x 13"
8. Lt. Kortemeier's notebook, full of notes, diagrams, sketches, etc.
SOLD
![]() LW large blue linen chart |
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![]() LW Lt. Kortemeier |
![]() LW flight chart |
![]() LW flight chart |
![]() LW flight chart |
![]() LW large blue linen chart |
![]() LW large blue linen chart |
![]() LW large blue linen chart |
![]() LW smaller blue linen chart |
![]() LW smaller blue linen chart |
![]() LW smaller blue linen chart |
![]() LW smaller blue linen chart |
![]() LW Shell Oil air chart |
![]() LW Shell Oil air chart |
![]() LW air chart Kiel |
![]() LW air chart Kiel |
![]() LW air chart USSR |
![]() LW air chart USSR |
![]() LW Focke-Wulf air chart |
![]() LW Focke-Wulf air chart |
![]() LW Focke-Wulf air chart |
![]() LW observers notebook |
![]() LW observers notebook |
![]() LW observers notebook |
![]() LW observers notebook |
British brass uniform (trouser) buttons
Stamped brass buttons marked Firmin - London, used by all branches of the British military until the advent of plastic buttons mid-war (because brass was needed for munitions). Most notably these were used on RAF and army trousers and battledress and also on early 1941 pattern Life Vests.
SOLD
![]() Brass trouser button | ![]() Brass trouser buttons |
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![]() Brass trouser button |
Genuine WWII period replacement zipper for Luftwaffe uniforms and flying clothing.
Reis separating zipper, metal on brown fabric, 42cm (16.5"). Appears unused, minor oxidation at base. Most probably for a private purchase flying jacket.
SOLD
![]() LW zippers |
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![]() LW zippers |
![]() LW zippers |
Rare and superb wartime propaganda poster for Bomber Command issued by the British Embassy in Portugal.
Portugal's place in WWII is quite astonishing. Though officially remaining neutral (despite pressure from both sides and strategically a very important location) she was, to all intents and purposes, supportive of the British. (Britain and Portugal have the longest alliance in history, dating back to the Anglo-Portuguese Treaty of 1373 and the Treat of Windsor in 1386). In 1943 Portugal leased the Azores to Britain for use as a military base (a slap in the face for the Germans) and was not afraid to show support outwardly by allowing the display of posters such as this, stating that "Great Britain is the defender of Liberty." A fabulous wartime poster, in vivid colors, depicting silhouetted Lancaster bombers flying over the Alps and attacking strategic targets in Northern Italy. Fantastic artwork and a powerful message. Excellent condition, has been folded and there is one tiny split at the top, centre fold (10mm) but is now rolled for safety. 20" x 30" (510mm x 760mm).
SOLD
![]() Bomber Command poster in Portuguese |
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![]() DSCN3Bomber Command poster in Por429 |
![]() Bomber Command poster in Portuguese |