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LOT 1439
Large World War I Era “TEST” Marked Propeller - This large wooden propeller a design most commonly associated with World War I era aviation. Based on the “TEST” marking over “51662” on the blade stamped “2” the propeller is likely of American or British origin. The blade marked “1” is marked “P4532/22X7”. The central hub as eight holes which are cut all the way through and one that is cut partially through the back side. The propeller measures 111 inches. Based on the hub dimensions, the propeller was likely for a bomber or reconnaissance aircraft. The whole of the propeller is covered in a brown/red varnish.
CONDITION: Very good, retaining 95% brown/red textured varnish with a few scattered dings and some scuffing on the leading edges. This would be a great addition to any aviation history collection!
Estimate: 2,000 - 3,000
sed by American
urse of time. The propeller
LOT 1440
Rare and Desirable World War I Era Curtiss Flying Boat Propeller - This early style
propeller is laminate in construction and features the distinct cutout for use on the
Curtiss flying boat. The tips of the propeller sheathed in brass which has been riveted
on. Both sides of this propeller bear the American Propeller Company “Paragon” trade
label. During World War I, American Propeller manufactured 75 percent of all propellers u
forces. The side of the hub has several markings which have become illegible over the co
measures 103 1/2 inches. The Curtiss flying boat is seen by many as the grandfather of commercial
aviation thanks to its capability to fly across the Atlantic and ability to carry cargo. The
Curtiss was pressed into service by the British RNAS in a U-boat spotting and at sea
rescue role among other wartime roles. These propellers are seldom seen as only 478
Curtiss flying boats were manufactured.
CONDITION: Very good, retaining most of the Paragon trade labels with scattered dings and scratches from years of use. The brass tips display an attractive patina. This is your chance to get a hold of one of these rare propellers.
Estimate: 2,000 - 3,000
LOT 1441
Rare World War I U.S. Air Service
Insignia of the 12th Aero Squadron on
Aircraft Fabric - This fantastic piece of
rare World War I aeronautical memorabilia
is the fuselage fabric insignia from a
12th Aero Squadron Salmson 2 A.2
reconnaissance aircraft. The section of
fabric is painted with the unmistakable
flying eagle grasping an artillery shell
emblem used by the 12th Aero Squadron.
The fabric is in a 37 1/2 x 29 3/4 inch
double sided frame. The 12th Aero
Squadron operated over the skies of the
Western Front during World War I and
performed reconnaissance for the U.S.
First Army. The squadron was active in the
St. Mihiel offensive and Meuse-Argonne
offensive. After the armistice the squadron
was assigned to the U.S. Third Army and
participated in the occupation of Germany
before returning to the United States in
the summer of 1919. The lineage of the
12th Aero Squadron can be traced to the
USAAF 12th Reconnaissance Squadron at
Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota.
The 12th Reconnaissance Squadron uses a
similar eagle emblem.
CONDITION: Very good with much of
the original paint remaining. World War I
aircraft fabric rarely comes up for sale, and
fabric with artistic expressions of wartime
squadron insignia are virtually impossible
to find. A must have for the serious early
military aviation collector.
Estimate: 3,000 - 5,000
LOT 1442
Rare and Highly Desirable Identified U.S. Army Air Service Hard Leather Flight Helmet - Offered here is a well-cared for, highly sought after, and rare example of an original World War I era U.S. Army Air Service hard leather flight helmet identified to a World War I aviator. The helmet is constructed out of stiff leather. Attached to the helmet is a leather apron which covered the pilot’s neck. The interior is lined in a soft cotton canvas and fabric mesh covers
the ear holes. The top of the helmet has the reinforcing
leather cross. Although unmarked, it has all the hallmarks
of a Spalding manufactured flight helmet. Spalding was
the foremost supplier of American flight gear, including flight helmets, leather jackets, and flight suits well into the 1930s. The name “Cecil C. Wooley” is hand marked on the top and lining of the helmet. The Lane County Historical Museum has within its collection a photo of a Curtis Jenny biplane piloted by Cecil C. Wooley and the photo was taken at the Eugene, Oregon, airport circa 1920. According to the historical society, Wooley was “an aviator in the first World War” and after the war Wooley flew adventure seekers in a Jenny owned by a local realtor and an owner of a local manufacturing company. Passengers were charged $15 for a 15 minute plane ride.
The first paying customer even had the thrill of a few
loops. The enterprise proved successful as within the
first 6 weeks of operations the Jenny was paid for. It was
reported that during the county fair they earned $300 to
$400 a day. Operations were short lived as in 1920 the aircraft
burned. This Jenny was the first plane locally owned in Eugene. Includes period tinted goggles and flight helmet skull cap.
CONDITION: Fine with several tears on the apron’s lining, otherwise minor wear overall. These helmets are extremely difficult to find in any condition. This is a standout piece of early American military aviation well deserving of the finest collection.
Provenance: The Putnam Green/Sycamore Collection.
Estimate: 1,500 - 2,250
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