The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 1135:
Description
Exceptional collection of eleven black-and-white art postcards featuring two iconic WWII fighters: the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt and the Grumman F4F Wildcat. Ten of the cards have been signed by distinguished combat pilots, many of whom were renowned aces and three of whom are Medal of Honor recipients. The set includes one blank postcard of the F4F Wildcat. The ten signed cards feature autographs from celebrated figures such as the renowned Robert S. Johnson (double-signed P-47 cards), Col. Francis Gabreski (P-47, with “56th Ftr Grp” noted), Gerald W. Johnson (P-47, with “The Finest Ftr Pilot of WWII”), Col. Walker M. “Bud” Mahurin (double-signed P-47 cards), Walt Beckham (P-47), Jim Swett (F4F, VMF-221), Marion E. Carl (F4F), Jeff Ethell (F4F, with detailed handwritten notes), Captain E. Scott McCuskey (F4F), and Medal of Honor recipient 1st Lt. Jefferson DeBlanc (F4F). The signatures are predominantly in blue or black ink, clear and bold, often featuring personal inscriptions, ranks, or squadron numbers which strengthen their historical provenance. The postcards were illustrated by Joe Milich. The lot is in superb collectible condition, showing no significant wear, tears, creases, or fading to the signatures or prints on the signed cards; the blank card is in pristine condition. H 4″, W 6″ See photos.
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