The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 1133:
Description
The Flying Tigers hold a legendary place in aviation history, and this lot of six (6) postcard-sized cards, each featuring a striking black and white print of a Curtiss P-40 Warhawk in the iconic “shark mouth” livery of the American Volunteer Group (AVG), is a true collector’s prize. The aircraft depicted is marked “474BBQ” and has the number “47” on its fuselage, a recognizable AVG scheme. The cards are reproductions of what appear to be original artwork by the artist RLD, whose initials are faintly visible on the lower right of the prints. The real value, of course, lies in the six original signatures from AVG members. The top left card is inscribed “To John Bannister, all the best” and signed by Tex Hill (Squadron 2nd, 18 1/4 victories). Other signatures include: Robert L. Scott (who notes commanding the 23rd Ftr/Gp, with 4 5/8 victories), Charles H. Older (Squadron 1st/3rd, 18.25 victories), John R. Rossi (1st Psn. Sqdn., 6 victories), “Bob” Neale (Squadron 1st), and Ken Jernstedt (noting his service with the 3rd Sqd and Flt #88). Jernstedt was a distinguished Flight Leader in the 3rd Pursuit Squadron (“Hell’s Angels”) and an Ace credited with 10.5 victories. The cards are printed on a stiff, white cardstock. Condition is excellent, showing only light handling wear consistent with age, and a slight yellowing/tanning around the edges of some cards. The signatures themselves are clear and bold in blue and black ink. H 4″, W 6″ See photos.
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