FW2100 - ENTICING BRITISH GENTRY AND “SPORTING CLASS” TO BECOME COMBAT PILOTS IN EARLY WORLD WAR I !  As rare as it is exceptional, original circa 1916-1917 RECRUITING POSTER for the Royal Flying Corps to enlist in an elite (and fashionably, if not aristocratically named) outfit !  “JOIN THE SPORTSMAN’S BATTALION” is its impressive, colorfully worded inducement. Nicely displayable size of 20 x 30.  Its appeal specifically geared to that elite class of young, cultured British gentlemen to enter His Majesty’s Air Service.  There certainly was no equivocation as to whom that newly formed service was appealing to:  “THE SPORTSMAN BATTALION’S RECRUIT WHO WRECKED THE ZEPPELIN AND WON THE VICTORIA CROSS” are the bold 3” high headlines above the wonderful photograph of  a young British aviator his plane.  (Clearly Lt. W. Leefe Robinson; awarded that first V.C. for aerial combat for his destruction of a German airship on Sept., 1916 the biggest air raid of the war, over Hertfordshire, England). Larger typeface below urging the young gentry to “FOLLOW HIS LEAD AND JOIN THE SPORTSMAN’S BATTALION” with name of recruiter at the “Hotel Cecil, Strand, London.” Printers signature on bottom margin. Condition exc.+. Professionally mounted on thin canvas to permanently preserve and strengthen. Just some minor stains (light and mostly in the lower left corner) and a few minor nicks; tiny piece out on the extreme edge of left margin (negligible).  Very sturdy.  We know of no other recruiting poster or inducement with quite the appeal to chivalry and class consciousness as exhibited in this exceptional example…$1,650.
 

FW154 - “MILITARY AEROPLANES” by Loening 1918 edition. Identical above in exc+ condition. Inscribed on flyleaf “N.H. Lutrell / War College / Gen’l Staff” . Exc+ condition. Covers very fine….34.50

FW157 - Four volume set of the “SUPERIOR SCHOOL OF AERONAUTICS AND MECHANICAL CONSTRUCTION”, France 1919-1920. The four individual textbooks used for teaching. All with matching covers, size (6 ½ x 8 ½) style… and many fine drawings and graphs, charts, mathematical illus. etc. French text. The four courses: (1). “CONSTRUCTION OF PLANES” 295 pages. (2). “ORGANIZATION OF MANUFACTORIES” and “METALLIC STRUCTURES”; total 348 pages. (3). “GENERAL AVIATION COURSE” Includes balloons, seaplanes, and more. Total 318 pages; taught by Lt. Col. Renard. (4). “COURSE OF HYDRAULIC MOTORS AND AIR COMPRESSORS” 176 pages. All are exc+.; lightest aging and minor wear on paper covers (all matching) but fine. Although undated (inexplicable why the French published books and never dated them!) but they are circa 1919-1920 as can be seen in historical review in two of the volumes. The first three volumes are printed in a very fancy, easily read script typeface with the fourth volume printed normally. The set of four just…59.50

FW135 - “ROYAL FLYING CORPS WWI AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS!”  A rare view and a rare specialty squadron.  Original group photo of 15 Royal Flying Corps (or RAF) enlisted men of varying ranks and specialties. Seated front row center are two men holding between them on their laps the earliest form of SPECIAL AERIAL CAMERA that is disguised to look like a Lewis machinegun; quite distinctive in appearance and quickly identified by the large rectangular box in its center with the hinged door (that distinctly distinguishes it as an aerial camera) and which was used as the loading compartment for the film.  The back row (standing) of men is also standing by another identical aerial camera (disguised as a Lewis gun) facing towards the photographer and it too is easily identified by the huge size of the muzzle which is quite definitely not a gun-barrel but, rather is the lens.  A third machinegun of the same type is on the left side rear row standing, but that is an original machinegun and not an aerial camera.  The men are standing in front of an airplane hangar and an unusual false background to which affixed a very large photographs of German planes.  Normal aging and sepia toning, but sharp and clear.  Photo size 4 x 6. ACCOMPANIED BY a good clear photograph (from a recent collector’s catalog of World War I aviation artifacts) of a genuine WWI RAF aerial camera disguised as a Lewis gun (with its original box) and the full description of that camera as it appeared in the catalog which identifies it as identical to that in this group photo…74.50

FW137 - “SEVENTH INTERNATIONAL AERO EXHIBITION JULY 16-27, 1929…LONDON…OFFICIAL CATALOGUE” with fascinating wealth of aero information.  Large, thick work of 324 pages; 6 x 9 ½; photo illus. Important for the vast wealth of full page ads by aero manufacturers for their planes and gear (many of the ads with fine photo illus as well). Fancy printed heavy paper covers.  Inside exc. +.  Covers only with some aging and dust mostly around edges; chips only on the spine, but very sound.  Very large foldout plate with chart/map of the aerodrome and all the locations of the various aero companies and their planes……84.50






 

FW138 - First French aviators to fly around the world.  “OUR JOURNEY AROUND THE EARTH” by D. Costes and J. M. Lbrix. Published June, 1928 about their flight from October, 1927 to April, 1928 starting at Paris.  (“Notre Tour de la Terre”) published Paris; Libraire Hachette.  261 pages (5 x 7 ½) plus some full page photo plates (including portrait of the two); original fancy printed paper covers.  French text. In exc. + condition.  Slightest minor aging…32.50








 

FW139 - Reporting on the first German Zeppelin airship bombing raid over the British Midlands Feb., 1916.  TWO ORIGINAL ISSUES OF NOTED BRITISH NEWSPAPERS WITH FULL REPORTS AND MANY PHOTO ILLUS OF THE DAMAGE DONE AND LOTS OF INTERESTING DETAILS.  Includes:  (1) “THE DAILY MIRROR” Feb. 10, 1916.  Total 12 pages (12 x 16)…and (2) “THE PICTURE WORLD DAILY PICTURE PAPER FOR THE MIDLANDS” also Feb. 10, 1916.  Total 16 pages (12 x 17) each with photos on front and back pages of the damage and details; other important war news in both.  Show their aging and some use, but they are all complete and intact and interesting reading.  PLUS British 1916 magazine “The Great War” (part of a series) 28 pages (10 x 13) with colorful paper covers.  Lead story “The Murder Triumph of the Zeppelin” and much other military war news of Britain.  Some wear, but exc.; all intact.  (Also another single page from a British 1916 newspaper all about the Zeppelin raids.  The lot just….29.50

FW141 - Lot of 12 all different “AVIATION LIFE ILLUSTRATED” (“La Vie Aerienne, Illustree”).  noted popular French weekly periodical (9 x 12).  9 dated between Sept.-Nov., 1920; 2 Jan. 15 & 21, 1921; 1 in July, 1922.  Between 15 and 20 pages; each loaded with photo illus.  French text.  Showing some use and wear, but all intact with colorful covers.  The lot of 12 just…34.50

FW142 - Lot of 14 “AERO REVUE FRANCAISE” published weekly, Paris.  Issue No. 20 of March 15, 1946 and a complete sequence issues No. 26 through 38 of April 26, 1946 to 19 July, 1946.  Approx 25 to 30 pages each; 9 x 12; loaded with photo illus (including covers) French text.  Light normal use and aging, but exc. and complete.  The lot of 14 just….27.50

FW143a - “AIR FRANCE REVUE” lot of 5 all different for summer / winter 1935 and spring / summer / autumn 1936.  Each approx 30 to 40 pages on a fine quality heavy coated paper stock.  (9 ½ x 12 ½) fancy color printed paper covers.  All exc. + condition (light wear edges of spine of one issue) loaded with pictures and ads for promotion of that famous French airline much on aviation, special flights and flight plans available; vacation designations and a variety of ads by merchants of all types.  The lot of 5…24.50

FW143b - “ALL THAT THE AVIATOR NEEDS TO KNOW” (“Ce Que Tout Aviateur Doit Savoir”) by A. Lain; Gauthier-Villars pub.  Although not dated (I don’t know why the French print so many books and never date them!) but from advertisements at the rear, it is definitely quite clear it is circa 1923. 173 pages (5 x 8) French text; profuse textual drawing illus; hard cloth covers with light shelf wear only; exc. +…27.50








 

FW144 - He won The Paris-Rome Air Race June, 1911 and in the year his book was published September, 1913 he was the first to make the long overwater flight across the Mediterranean:  ROLLAND GARROS, noted French airman; was also the very first combat pilot of the French Air Service in 1914!  Small published work “GUIDE OF THE AVIATOR” [“Guide de L’Aviateur”].  A biography of him by Jacques Mortane.  Pub Paris 1913 by Lafitt & Co.  95 pages (4 x 6 ½) plus full page photo illus hard paperboard covers with photo portrait of Garros.  Exc. +.  Normal light aging.  Covers only with some minor wear, but very sound and intact.  (French text)…37.50





 

FW127 - “OSTERGAARD AIRCRAFT WORKS…CHICAGO, ILL” 4 page advertising brochure with listing of “AIRCRAFT SUPPLIES” available.  Although undated, quite certain early 1920’s (and not later) judging by the materials and photographs of the items available (including propellers and other smaller parts and early type planes depicted) plus items such as “Deperdussim alighting gear” (with sketch of same).  6 x 9.  Few short tears only on folds; some penciled notes added by a prospective buyer. The firm established 1910 was listed in 1922 “Who’s Who in American Aeronautics.”……32.50

FW128 - Famous Italian airplane manufacturer’s circa 1925 catalog (8 ½ x 11) of aircraft then available “AERONAUTIC MACCHI.”  28 pages (3 of those pages double size fold-outs).  Dual language Italian and French.  Illustrates and describes their line of aircraft (including their famous series of seaplanes) with fine, full page photographs and details of each.  Although undated, it is decidedly circa 1925; describes planes then available, all of which were first introduced between 1921 and 1925.  Fine illustrations of all.  Original heavy paper covers decorated with numerous “M” monograms of Macchi company.  Exc. +……135.

FW129 - A noteworthy fantastic wealth of interesting information and fine, profuse photographs: “U.S. ARMY AIRCRAFT 1908-1946” by J. C. Fahey “FIRST EDITION” pub. 1946 by “Ships & Aircraft / N.Y.” 64 page pamphlet (6 x 9) on fine quality paper, includes an amazing 312 photographs of all those different aircraft plus a spectacular amount of details about them. Exc. + condition. Front paper cover loose; lacks back cover…34.50

FW130 - “HOW [with a reason why] AN AIRPLANE FLIES” (“Comment Vole un Aeroplane”) by W. Rolls; pub. 1909 by Pierre Rochet & Co., Paris.  159 pages; 5 ½ x 8. French text plus numerous full page photo plates (early planes and motors); numerous textual drawings, aircraft.  Paper covers with illus of early aircraft.  Exc.  The very beginnings of aviation……49.50









 

FW131 - All about his famous flight in 1924 from Paris to Tokyo, Japan.  “Paris-Tokyo en...Le Raid Merveilleux der Pelletie Doisy” by Gilbert Gile-Nicaud; pub. Paris, 1924 by Plon-Nourrit & Co.  256 pages (5 x 7 ½) plus 66 charts of the flight and the numerous full page photo plates taken at various destinations along the flight of pilot in flight gear. A few foldout maps of the historic flight.  Exc. +.  Two small chips and minor spotting on paper cover only…..24.50







 

FW132 - “THE CONQUEST OF THE AIR;   AERONAUTICS / AVIATION; HISTORY:  THEORY:  PRACTICE” by Alphonse Berget.  Published London by Heinemann 1909. The English translation of the famous work published earlier that very same year (August of 1909) in Paris.  English text.  295 pages (6 x 9) plus 32 full page photo plates of great many important earliest aircraft, plus many textual drawings, charts, maps, diagrams, etc.  Exc. + inside.  Original hard cloth covers very sound; some shelf wear and dinginess, but will clean much better.  Gold embossed illus on cover.  An important, early work…79.50

FW133 - “ROYAL AIR FORCE FLYING TRAINING MANUAL…PART I.  FLYING INSTRUCTION.”  Official British Gov’t Publication 1929 by the “Air Ministry.”  With the then-latest up to date revision as of 1928.  Total 238 pages plus a number of extra full page photo plates; plus many textual illus.  Great wealth of detail including much about flying and airmanship on both the ground and in the air; flying instruction; rigging; engines and more.  (5 ½ x 8 ½) original very heavy blue paper board covers with original special loose leaf type binding (with the cord fasteners).  Exc. to almost mint condition……39.50

FW134       “ROYAL AIR FORCE FLYING TRAINING MANUAL…PART III…SEAPLANE FLYING”  Official British government publication by the Air Ministry, 1928, London (5 ½ x 8 ½) approx 175 (un-numbered) pages with many textual illus.  Individual chapters on Float-planes; flying boats; Amphibians; airmanship at sea; Marine Pilotage and much more.  Original blue, hard board covers and loose leaf binding with original cord fastening.  In just about mint condition……39.50

FW136 - Memento of a very historic flight; printed and issued by the two companies that made the plane and the motor.  “SOUVENIR OF THE FIRST CROSSING EAST TO WEST OF THE NORTH ATLANTIC; PARIS TO NEW YORK NON-STOP; 1-2 SEPTEMBER, 1930” original 1930 publication by Breguet (the French mfr of the open cockpit bi-wing plane) and the Hispano-Suiza Company; (manufacturer of the motor).  A fancy, 8 page fine quality imprint on heavyweight, coated paper stock (9 x 6) with fine quality profuse photo illus of the two pilots, the presidents of each company, the plane in flight and reception in N.Y. etc.  Fancy, heavy paper covers. French text.  Just lightest wear (cover edges mostly, but exc. +).  A scarce memento of that most historic flight……69.50

FW93 - The entire 48 issues of very important famous French weekly magazine “THE AERIAL WAR ILLUSTRATED” (“La Guerre Aerienne; Illustree”) published Paris, commencing with Issue No. 1 of first year of publication Nov. 16, 1916 running in sequence to issue no. 48 of Oct. 11, 1917.  Original period binding in two volumes (24 issues per volume).  Large 9 x 12 ½; total 768 numbered pages; each of the 48 issues has an extra full page wonderful photographic portrait plate of a famous French pilot of that era. Loaded with fine photographs.  French text.  Rare to find a full set intact.  Superb condition (just edges of some pages are dry and could chip easily, but they are in gem condition right now).  Fascinating to read and view the illustrations.  A wealth of detail probably not found in any other works about that famed flying service. Heavy cloth covers loose and spine coverings lacking; otherwise fine throughout.  Weight 9 ½ lbs.!  Good for many hours of fascinating viewing…395.

FW95 - Published in France, 1918 in dual English and French languages “AVIATION TECHNICAL DICTIONARY” by John Lycett; pub. Paris by Dunod & Pinet.  182 pages; 4 x 7 ½ .  A scarce work and is handy today (for the collector of World War I French Aviation manuals.  Fancy printed hard cloth covers. Lightest wear.  Exc. + (even contains conversion tables of feet to meters; gallons to liters and pounds to grams.)…67.50

FW96 - Promotional brochure July, 1929 by the “FOKKER AIRCRAFT CORP OF AMERICA…and its subsidiary, Dayton-Wright Co.”  28 pages; 9 x 9; profusely illus with all their then-current 1929 line of aircraft being sold in America and their “AFFILIATION OF FOKKER AIRCRAFT AND GENERAL MOTORS CORP” (bold headline on page 1).  Their sales and executive offices then in the General Motors building in New York and factories in West Virginia and New Jersey.  Exc. +.  Details of each plane, as well…37.50

FW97 - An important early aviation work and still useful for reference “MODERN AIRCRAFT:  BASIC PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION, APPLICATION, CONSTRUCTION, REPAIR, MAINTENANCE…” by Major V. W. Page, U.S. Army Air Corps; published 1927 Henley Pub. Co. N.Y. Thick 855 pages (6 x 9) profuse drawings of aircraft and wings plus charts, graphs, etc.; some photo illus.  Wealth of important detail.  Has extra flyleaf use by the “U.S. Volunteer Air Service” as official “GROUND SCHOOL TEXT” with name of student to whom issued and autograph signatures of the instructor.  Light aging, but exc. +.  Original cloth hard covers original cloth hard covers only show shelf wear, especially around edges, but are sound……37.50

FW98 -  “THE AVIATION POCKET-BOOK FOR 1917” by R. B. Mathews.  5’th edition revised and enlarged; published 1917 Crosby Lockwood, London.  300 pages; 4 x 6 ½.  Some textual illus and a large foldout plate.  A wealth of data relating to aeronautics (interesting bibliography at rear of all published aviation books at the time) plus a “Directory of Manufacturers.”  Cloth hard covers just lightest wear and exc. +……37.50

FW115 - “IN FULL FLIGHT; RECOLLECTIONS OF THE AERIAL WAR” (“En Plein Vol; Souvenirs der Guerre Aerienne”) by Marcel Nadaud; Librairie Hachette Pub 1918, Paris.  208 pages (5 x 7 ½); original paper covers.  Aging and some light browning, but exc. + condition.  French text.  A series of memoirs and narratives of aerial warfare WWI by French participants……24.50






 

FW116 -  CHARLES LINDEBERGH WRITES EARLY BIOGRAPHY IMMEDIATELY AFTER HIS FAMOUS CROSS-ATLANTIC NEW YORK-PARIS FLIGHT AND IT’S PUBLISHED IN FRANCE JUST MONTHS LATER.  Dated Dec., 1927 “MY AIRPLANE AND ME; MY LIFE SINCE MY INFANCY UNTIL THE DAY AFTER MY CROSSING [the Atlantic]” with a preface by Myron T. Herrick Ambassador of the U.S.  Entirely in French language published Dec., 1927 by Flammarion (Editor) Paris.  282 pages (5 x 7 ½) plus few interesting full page photo illus plates.  Original paper covers (with fine close-up of Lindebergh standing by his “Spirit of St. Louis.”  Normal aging; exc. + (unusual to find this type of work in such fine condition).  Scarce Lindebergh item……37.50

FW108 - Clearly reflecting the American public’s interest, fascination and novelty of aviation. 1911 dated sheet music. Huge title “AMERICAN CONQUEST” with large, wonderful illustration of earliest type of bi-wing, pusher-prop open fuselage plane.  “March & Two-Step” composed by John Greenwald.  Large 10 x 14; 6 pages.  Pub. by Emil Ascher, New York 1911.  Exc. +.  Minor short margin tear on bottom; negligible……54.50





 

FW82 - “THE AIRMAN AND HIS CRAFT” by Wm. J. Claxton.  Published 1914, London by Blackie & Son, Ltd.  80 pages; 5 x 7.  Many textual line drawing illus, plus few full color plates.  A general treatment for the public of the then new and innovative introduction of aviation to the world.  Exc. +.  Original cloth hard covers very fancy; exc., just some dusting to the spine area and edges, but exc. +……37.50

FW83 - “PRACTICAL FLYING; COMPLETE COURSE OF FLYING INSTRUCTIONS” by Flt.-Cmdr. W. G. McMinnies, Royal Navy.  Published London 1918 by Temple Press Ltd.  297 pages PLUS lengthy catalog at rear of mostly aeronautical advertisements including many automotive.  5 x 7 ½ having profuse line drawing illus (many airplanes plus tactics and more; few full page plates).  Cloth hard covers exc. +……54.50

FW84 - “THE AEROPLANE SPEAKS” by Capt. H. Barber, Royal Flying Corps.  6’th (revised) edition Feb., 1918 (the 1’st edition published just two years earlier Dec., 1916). important and popular work. 146 pages with great many textual illustrations PLUS an extra 42 plates with illustrations (many plates containing 5 and 6) of all different types airplanes then in service.  6 x 9 ½ exc. +.  A wealth of information.  Original hard cloth covers only show wear and some fading, but very sound…69.50

FW85 -  “AERONAUTICS” (“La, Aeronautique”) by C. Paul Renard.  Pub. Paris 1909 by E. Flammarion, Editor.  368 pages; 4 ½ x 7.  Some textual line drawing illus.  Orig. paper covers showing aging and light wear, but exc.  French text. Early coverage…59.50

FW86 - “THE SPECIALIST [OR SKILLED WORKER] IN AVIATION TASKS / JOBS” (“Der Facharbeiter Im Flugzeugbau”) by Fritz Krause; pub. 1937, Germany.  82 pages; 5 x 6 ½ textual illus. (photo and line drawing) of equipment, tools. German text. Fancy heavy paperboard covers.  Exc. +……22.50

FW87 - “INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE MANUAL” by Cmdr. F. W. Sterling, U.S. Navy.  4’th edition of 1917.  168 pages; many line drawing and textual photo illus.  6 x 9.  Official textbook of the U.S. Naval Academy enlarged and brought up to date in this edition.  A large section on “aerial motors.” Incribed by owner on flyleaf “CHARLES JOHNSON / ROYAL FLYING CORPS / LONDON JANUARY, 1918.”  Hard blue cloth covers gold embossed. Exc. +…47.50

FW88 -  “MOUNTAIN AVIATION” (“L’Aviation der Montagne”) by General Benoist.  Pub. 1934 by B. Arthaud, Grenoble France.  142 pages; many textual line drawing and some fine photo illus PLUS numerous extra full page aerial photo plates of mountainous areas.  6 ½ x 9; photo illus fancy paperboard covers.  All exc. + with original 1934 dated French inscription on flyleaf by the author General Benoist…34.50






 

FW89 - “AVIATION:  ITS PRINCIPLES, ITS PRESENT AND FUTURE” by S. F. Walker published London by P. C. Jack (according to title page), but on last page of book in the index section, in tiny print: “Printed by Ballantyne, Hanson & Co., Aug.1915, Edinburgh and London.”  (Although the way it’s printed, the date may actually be 1912!) definitely pre-World War I.  96 pages; 4 x 6.  Some line drawing textual illus.  Original cloth hard covers. Light wear, but exc. +.  Interesting little volume, especially with its predictions of what the future holds for aviation; e.g.:  “It is supposed that aeroplanes will be able to drop bombs over fortifications, towns and on the decks of [warships]…the author has doubt that it could be done.  Bombs might be dropped on London, Manchester or Gloscow…but that would probably not be allowed.”  (!!!)  Other interesting comments…39.50

FW90 - Includes interesting chapter on earliest uses of “RADIO IN THE ARMY” and airborne aviation radio.  Unusual publication entirely in English and obviously for British and American military forces then in France “TECHNICAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE SCHOOL OF THE BATTERY COMMANDER:  BALLISTICS, TOPOGRAPHY, RADIO.”  This is the Vol. 2 of that “School of the Battery Commander” published by the “Imprimerie Nationale, Paris 1918” (but text is in English) Boldly printed above title “CONFIDENTIAL.” 237 pages; 4 x 7; textual drawings and diagrams.  Chapter on radio and “American telephones” specifically includes details on “RADIO IN THE ARMY”; also a chapter “AMERICAN TELEPHONES” with details and drawing of the “Camp Telephone, 1917 Model U.S. Signal Corps.”  Exc. +. Later hard cloth cover with name gold embossed.  Lightest wear exc. +.…29.50

FW91 - “THE AEROPLANE FOR ALL” (“L’Aeroplane Pour Tous”) by L. Lelasseux & R. Marque.  Published Paris 1909 by Society of Aeronautic Editions.  120 pages; 5 ½ x 8 ½ with many line drawing illus and graphs (planes, engines, etc.) plus few full photo plates.  French text.  Original fancy printed paper covers; exc. +.  Rare early aviation imprint……44.50

FW92 - “HOW TO FLY:  The Pilot and His Problems” by Lt. B. Studley, U.S. Navy.  Pub. New York 1929, Macmillan Co.  291 pages (6 x 8 ½) with many good photo illus of aircraft plus textual line drawings.  Interesting text for someone who might wish to take up flying or had just started in that by-gone era.  Hard cloth covers.  Light shelf wear and aging, but exc. +….29.50 

FW99 -  FIRST EDITION of FIRST YEAR of issue, of what would become a highly important guide to the American aviation industry and is not merely a choice aviation collector’s item, but one that contains a wealth of important and fascinating information.  “AIRCRAFT YEAR BOOK ISSUED BY THE MANUFACTURERS AIRCRAFT ASSOCIATION, INC…1919.”  Published New York, 1919 by that association. 398 pages on fine quality paper stock.  6 x 9.  Profusely photo illus with many planes, personalities, engines, factory facilities and much more.  Stories of all the major American aircraft mfrs. even a section on all air aces of all countries of WWI.  These yearbooks are a true repository of aeronautical information and an interpretation of aeronautical fact even for those not familiar with it.  Intended both for the use of those associated with aviation at the time, as well as the American public in general.  Just light wear.  Exc. + inside.  Original blue cloth fancy embossed covers; shows some shelf wear (dusting mostly on spine and edges) but exc.  Have two copies (identical exc. condition).  Each……175

FW104 - “AIRCRAFT YEAR BOOK 1928.”  Same format; same style cover as above.  551 pages all different material photo illustrated and many textual drawings and some very large foldout plates as well.  Lengthy chapter on the famous “Epochal Flights of 1927” as well as important lengthy chapters on “Civil Aviation in the U.S.” and “Governmental Aviation” including all the individual military services and Post Office Dept., State Dept., etc. and much much more.  Including sections on airports, airships, also a “Foreign Aeronautical Review” etc.  Exc. +.  Lightest shelf wear mostly at spine.  Fine….125.

FW76 - “NOTES ON THE IDENTIFICATION OF AEROPLANES” edited at the Army War College 1917.  Published by U.S. Gov’t 1918.  Pamphlet 69 pages.  5 x 7 ½.  Almost every page with many illustrations (drawings, silhouettes of planes from different angles) Categorized by aircraft of Britain, France and Germany. Details on how to identify on first 15 pages.  Generally exc. condition; last page loose with some edge chipping and title page (acts as cover as well) loose and torn on margin.  Scarce gov’t manual of WWI…49.50

 FW80 - Mixed lot of 11 all different aviation periodicals (magazines) of the 1920’s.  Includes two “AERIAL AGE WEEKLY’S” Jan. 12, 1920; Jan. 30, 1920... “WESTERN FLYING” Sept., 1926; four issues “THE ACE; THE AVIATION MAGAZINE OF THE WEST” March, June, Dec., 1921 and Aug., 1922…“AERONAUTICAL DIGEST” Dec., 1923; “POPULAR AVIATION” March, 1928 plus “FLIGHT; THE FIRST AERO WEEKLY IN THE WORLD” official organ of the Royal Aero Club England Dec. 15, 1921 and “LA TECHNIQUE AERONAUTIQUE…REVIEW INTERNATIONALE” Paris (French text) 15 Oct., 1912.  Most  9 x 12 in size (French one smaller 7 x 10).  All with original paper covers. Normal aging and some wear (mostly to covers) otherwise very sound.  Most are photo illus.  An interesting and varied lot of 11 just…84.50

FW58 - An incisive official government manual on medical problems peculiar to military aviation WWI:  “AIR SERVICE MEDICAL.”  Published by War Department; Air Service Division of Military Aeronautics.  Washington G.P.O. 1919.  Large 7 x 10 ½, thick 446 pages heavy (3 ½ lbs) treatise on wide range of medical problems since the organization of earliest military aviation medical units and their problems.  Many interesting full page photo plates (numerous showing doctors examining men, some of whom are nude!); wealth of information.  Some wear; pages mostly exc. +, just a few at the beginning loose as inner hinge of cover is weak; hard cloth covers all intact with normal shelf wear…57.50

FW60 - “TEXTBOOK OF MILITARY AERONAUTICS” by Woodhouse.  Identical to that described above also 1918 edition.  Inside exc. +.  Covers very sound.  Just a little dusty and minor shelf wear, but a good clean copy……67.50

FW61 - A companion work to the above “textbook” by same author Henry Woodhouse:  “TEXTBOOK OF APPLIED AERONAUTIC ENGINEERING” pub. N.Y. 1920 by “The Century Co.”  Large 9 x 11 ½, heavyweight.  324 pages on quality paper stock.  Profuse photo illustrations; many textual drawings; illus. plus full page ads front and back for airplanes and aviation equipment / motors, etc. All exc. +.  Both cloth hard covers loose, dingy; spine covering lacking.  An important treatise worthy of rebinding…32.50

FW73 - “THE EYES OF THE ARMY AND NAVY; PRACTICAL AVIATION” by Flight Lieut. Albert H. Munday, Royal Navy.  Published 1917 by Harper & Brothers N.Y. & London.  227 pages with textual diagrams and a few photo plates of early aircraft.  4 ½ x 7; exc. to mint condition and surprisingly, has its original illustrated full color paper dust jacket (some scuffing and minor tear on spine).  Scarce work intended for military aviators of WWI…79.50

 

FW89 - “AVIATION:  ITS PRINCIPLES, ITS PRESENT AND FUTURE” by S. F. Walker published London by P. C. Jack (according to title page), but on last page of book in the index section, in tiny print: “Printed by Ballantyne, Hanson & Co., Aug.1915, Edinburgh and London.”  (Although the way it’s printed, the date may actually be 1912!) definitely pre-World War I.  96 pages; 4 x 6.  Some line drawing textual illus.  Original cloth hard covers. Light wear, but exc. +.  Interesting little volume, especially with its predictions of what the future holds for aviation; e.g.:  “It is supposed that aeroplanes will be able to drop bombs over fortifications, towns and on the decks of [warships]…the author has doubt that it could be done.  Bombs might be dropped on London, Manchester or Gloscow…but that would probably not be allowed.”  (!!!)  Other interesting comments…39.50|




 

FW66 - “HOW IT FLIES…THE CONQUEST OF THE AIR THE STORY OF MAN’S ENDEAVORS TO FLY AND OF THE INVENTIONS BY WHICH HE HAS SUCCEEDED” by Richard Ferris.  Published 1910 New York by T. Nelson & Sons.  475 pages with over 150 illustrations (most of them photos plus a few line drawing illus).  Cloth hard covers.  In exc. + condition.  Minor shelf wear and fading to the cloth hard covers, but they are exc.  Scarce early account……69.50

FW44 - AMERICAN MILITARY AVIATOR’S SERIES OF FOUR OFFICIAL ISSUE PILOT’S LOG BOOKS.  All owned and kept by First Lieut. Kellogg Sloan of U.S. Air Service (subsequently “U.S. Air Corps”).  Each log with hard cloth covers, bold lettered on the hard cloth covers “PILOT’S BOOK” (and / or) “AIR SERVICE” or “AIR CORPS” depending on dates.  Each 3 ½ x 6; and approx 100 pages. Pages preprinted with columns for date; type of plane flown; engine; type of work; detail of work; duration of flight; altitudes, etc.  Entirely filled out by Lieut. Sloan commencing with his aviation training (rising from Army sergeant) continuing through training starting as a cadet at Cornell University, New York Nov. 1, 1917 with hundreds of hours of flying through to July 31, 1923.  At Mitchell Field, NY flying various aircraft (log has a number of interesting entries).  Other 3 logs continue on from that 1923 date straight through to Sept. 30, 1930!  Entries by Lieut. Sloan from various stations, flying a variety of airplanes; many of the entries with stamped imprints of certifying officers; flying from variety of American airfields; stationed for a while at the U.S. air base in the Canal Zone, Panama. Normal aging and use, but all very sound; covers completely intact and vg+.  It’s likely that some of those officers who have certified various pages will turn out to be scarce autographs of air officers who later achieved notoriety.  (Note:  Although Sloan had numbered these log books 1 through 5, with “No. 2” seemingly lacking,…it is specifically noted that these four books do run in unbroken sequence of months and dates.)  The lot of four…395.

FW35 - “CHEMET ON HIS HYDRO-AEROPLANE ‘BOREL’ [with] GNOME MOTOR [and] PROPELLER [?] CHAUVIERE.” Original 1912 chromolithograph color print (artist’s signature illegible).  Published by “Mabileau & Co. Paris.” Bold titling at top margin “MEETING DE TAMISE / 7-16 SEPTEMBER, 1912.”  Large 17 ½ x 35 depicting that single seat open cockpit, high wing monoplane on twin pontoons landing in river alongside a town with small sailboats, houses and buildings in background and a second matching plane (much smaller) high in the sky overhead.  Coloration is all in varying shades of light to dark golden brown (original coloration) and in almost mint condition.  Absolutely authentic.  Rare…650.

FW38 - A large, bright rust colored mid-wing monoplane with single open front cockpit flying over French countryside is the subject of this 1911 dated full color (chromolithograph) print.  The artist’s signature in lower corner “E. LEON DUFOR.”  Printers signature in margin “Mabileau & Co. Paris…1911.”  Large 17 ½ x 35 print in modernistic style of artistry.  In exc. to almost mint condition; just showing the slightest of aging.  Absolutely authentic unusual to find in this superb condition…495.






 

FW36 - “THE EUROPEAN CIRCUIT…1’ST BEAUMONT…2’ND GARROS…AND THE BLERIOT MONOPLANE…[with] GNOME MOTOR…[and] BOSCH MAGNETO…[and] HELICE [propeller?] NORMALE.”  Bold gilt lettered title in the center of this unusual original full color chromolithograph 1911 dated print also by “Mabileau & Co. Paris” artist’s signature “GAMY.”  Large 17 ½ x 35.  Depicts famous Bleriot high wing, open fuselage monoplane flying over water (British channel?); a large steamship in distant background.  On right side a small, birds’ eye view of Paris and the Sein River (?) below which is another small view of a crowd men, women, children at an airfield (or stadium) cheering; another small view of same Bleriot about to make a landing; on left side two other views include two women knitting and with washing and an outdoor farm view and two men watching in the far distance another Bleirot flying overhead, a smaller close up view of that Bleriot pushed by four young men to the landing field for a takeoff.  In superb exc. + condition. Minor short tear in upper right blank margin, otherwise exc. +.  Completely original and rare……595.

FW37 - MAKING AVIATION HISTORY!  ORIGINAL 1909 DATED FRENCH FULL COLOR CHROMOLITHOGRAPH print 17 ½ x 35 with signature of artist “S. Montaul” in corner and printer “M. N. Paris 1909” (quite certain it is “Maribeau & Co. of Paris” similar to these chromos of same series here.  Depicts that famous Bleriot open fuselage, single seat, open cockpit monoplane flying over the rough seas of the English channel and in the far distant background a steamship. Color shades of green, very light brown and grayish brown. Large title in lower margin (in French) “BLERIOT CROSSING THE CHANNEL 25’TH OF JULY, 1909.”  Exc. + condition.  Two tiny, short tears in the blank margin, very minor.  Unusual to fine this type of print in this size in such fine condition. Rare……650.

FW56 - “THE FLYING BOOK…1914 EDITION THE AVIATION WORLD WHO’S AND INDUSTRIAL DIRECTORY.”  London, 1914; Aviation World Pub. Co., Bournemouth.  184 pages; 5 ½ x 8 ½.  Some photo illus (of aviators) plus profuse fine profile drawings of all types aircraft accompanied with fine details of each.  Fancy, illustrated paperboard covers.  Exc. +.  Spine and covers weak at hinges.  Numerous aviation ads….54.50









 

FW45 - “PILOT’S BOOK…AVIATION SECTION…SIGNAL CORPS, U.S. ARMY” titled official Air Service issue pilot’s log book.  Identical above with original cloth hard covers (5 x 6).  Issued to and kept (by pen) by flying cadet / pilot Harold W. Fisher commencing at Brooks Field, Texas Oct. 18, 1924 through to Dec. 22, 1924. All entries for the various training and flying he participated in (his “solo” flight Dec. 19’th); his advanced training at Kelly Field, Texas.  Light aging, minor wear (mostly at spine) exc.…69.50




 

FW46 - A veritable encyclopedia of airships and airplanes of the world in 1914.  Published just about as World War I was about to erupt:  “HANDBOOK OF THE AIR FLEETS 1914” (“Taschenbuch der Luftflotten 1914”) by Rasch & Hormel; pub. 1914 Munich, Germany.  528 pages.  Hundreds original photos (plus drawings) of aircraft of the world, individually by country:  Germany, France, U.S., England, Turkey, Italy, etc.  4 ½ x 7.  A fabulous wealth of information; especially worthy for its illustrations of all those rare pre-World War I planes from earliest days of aviation.  German text.  Original fancy cloth hard covers (book is exc.) just some normal light aging; covers sound, showing shelf wear (mostly edges of spine, but all intact)….84.50





 

FW41 - “SECRET / CONFIDENTIAL!...AND NOT TO BE CARRIED IN THE FRONT LINES!” (in German) bold printed caution on front cover of this original World War I Austrian Army / Air Force manual “VORSCHRIFD FUR DEN TRUPPENFLIEGERDIENST” (“Regulations / Instructions for Cooperation of Austrian Infantry and Balloon / Aviation Troops / for Flyers and Balloon Observers Working in Cooperation with Ground Forces, etc.”) official handbook issued by Chief of General Staff; Vienna 1917.  22 pages (German text) 4 x 6 plus three large fold out plates with details, designs of signals and signal flags; another plate with two views of Austrian biplane for identification of insignia. Original heavy covers. Especially rare in this superb exc. + condition.  97.50

FW40 - Early circa 1908-1910 German CATALOG OF AIRPLANE MODELS.  Maker’s and / or dealer’s name and date published not stated, but it is decidedly of that early era.  16 numbered pages (1-16), seems to be complete with nothing missing (6 x 9); first four pages with clear detail, line drawings of each of the models available; includes early “Rumpler-Taube” monoplanes, a Bleriot “Eindecker” mono; “Breguet Doppeodecker” and an “Albatross Doppeodecker” biplane.  Plus other pages with details of kits for model makers and price list and parts available.  Age browning; some tiny nicks on edges of blank margins. Unusual to find this fragile catalog completely intact as this.  The very beginnings of interest in model plane building…57.50




 

FW39 - A unique series of aviation drawings and artwork. Published 1924. “L’ALBUM de L’AERONAUTIQUE” (“Aeronautical Album”) with 28 individual (removable) 6 ½ x 10 artistic drawings of French aviation by George Ham (noted French artist 1900-1971) famous for his automobile drawings; text by Raymond Saladin.  It appears to be French government (or gov’t sponsored) institution / department that actually published this, the credit being given as “…Published under the patronage of the Under Secretary of State of Aeronautics.” French text on separate, thinner paper of 51 pages including a prefatory article by famous French aviator Captain Rene Fonck on “The Progress of Aviation Since the Last Exhibition.”  The skilled, professional drawings are printed on special, heavyweight beige and gray tinted paper (alternating colors) each with signature of George Ham and a small printed caption / title in lower margin. They depict (almost in their entirety) French aircraft of the early 1920’s era. The pages are individually printed and are bound together, loose leaf style, with the original red cord binder together with original heavy paper cover with color illustration; all of it is exc. + very minor aging.  A unique assembly of aviation art.  The views are not merely of the planes themselves, but include interesting settings and backgrounds….125.

FW31 - MAY, 1918 DATED IDENTIFICATION GUIDE OF ALL AIRCRAFT (ALLIED AND GERMAN) PUBLISHED FOR USE OF FRENCH CIVILIANS AND MILITARY PERSONNEL.  “SILHOUETTES D’AVIONS ALLIES ET ENNEMIS” (“Aircraft Silhouettes; Allied and Enemy”). Pub. Paris by Dupont. Bold warning on the front cover just below title “CONFIDENTIAL:  Do not carry this to the front lines nor near those lines” [in French].  62 pages; 8 ½ x 5.  Each page with a different French , British or German aircraft and each one illus. in three or four views:  (side; full front; top or a three quarter angular).  Also, each page with individual details of that particular plane (French text).  Original paper covers.  Conditionwise it’s the best one of these we’ve come across;  Just about mint! Includes color plate which illus. tail insignia and national colors of those aircraft (including American, French, English, Italian, Belgian and German)…150.

FW32 - “EQUILIBRE, CENTRAGE ET CLASSIFICATION DES AEROPLANES” (“Balance, Centrage [??] and Classification of Airplanes”) by R. Saulnier; third edition pub. Paris, 1910 by Librairie Aeronautique.  58 pages.  7 x 10 ½.  French text.  Profusely illustrated with diagrams and graphs. Unusually fine, exc. to almost mint condition; original paper covers, the slightest aging, but exc. + and better.  Photograph of early Morane high wing monoplane on cover………32.50









 

FW16 - “Abridgment of the Spiral [?] and Resistance of Air” [especially as it is applied to an airplane] (“Abrege L’Helice et La Resistance de L’Air”) by M. Gandillot.  Pub. Paris 1912 by Gauthier-Villars.  188 pages; large 9 x 11.  Some textual charts / drawings / mathematical formulas.  French text.  Orig. paper covers; exc. + condition………32.50










 

FW17 -History of a famous British aviation mfr.  “FORTY YEARS ON…1909-1949” published 1949 by the HANDLEY PAGE Co., London 1949.  96 pages; 11 x 8 ½; profusely photo illus on every page (many with 3, 4 or 5 photos) with history of the company from its earliest days and all airplanes.  Fine quality paper stock.  Original paperboard cover; exc+…..34.50

FW18 - “TEXTBOOK OF AERIAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS FOR AERIAL NAVIGATION, INTERNATIONAL, NATIONAL AND MUNICIPAL, CIVIL AND MILITARY” by Henry Woodhouse; pub. New York 1920.  F. A. Stokes Co.  171 pages.  Large 9 x 12.  Few photo illus of early planes and personages. Lengthy inscription and autograph by author who gave this in 1920 as gift to friend.  First edition.  Cloth hard covers.  Exc. +.  Lightest shelf wear outside…29.50

FW19 - AN ABSOLUTE NECESSITY FOR THE AMERICAN NAVAL AVIATION HISTORIAN!  Very scarce, extremely important “FLYING OFFICERS OF THE U.S. NAVY.”  Published 1919 by the Naval Aviation War Book Committee, Washington, D.C.  302 pages on fine quality paper stock; large 8 x 11.  Entirely filled (possibly few thousands!) with small photo portraits of naval officers plus complete alphabetically arranged listings of all naval aviators (both officers and student-officers) who had served and were then serving in WWI plus history of naval aviation.  Also many fine photo illus of naval aircraft and naval aviation associated ships etc.  Exc. +.  Only the original thick paperboard covers and their outer cloth padding and covering are poor condition (covers intact, but the covering and padding entirely “shot” and should be recovered).  A very scarce and significant work.  Includes brief bio and service info of each naval aviator…………195.

FW21 - Two complete books published as a single volume. “Aircraft, Aeroplanes, Airships” 128 Pages.  …and “Wires and Wireless; Electricity as Applied to Telegraphs, Telephones, Railway Signalling, Sending Pictures by Wire, etc.”  128 pages (books individually paginated) both by T. W. Korbin; both published London 1914 by C. A. Pearson, Ltd.  5 x 7.  The aircraft work has many extra single full page photographic illus of aircraft plus few textual illus; the “Wires” book with many textual illus.  Shows very slight wear; pages age browned, but very sound.  Fancy gold embossed, hard, cloth covers exc+………………39.50






 

FW23 - “AN EXPLORER IN THE AIR SERVICE” Lt.-Col. Hiram Bingham, U.S. Air Service.  Pub. 1920 by Yale Univ. Press, New Haven.  260 pages; 6 x 9 plus numerous full page photo illus. Good account of formation and early days of U.S. Air Service and its role in WWI.  Only slight wear; some light browning on margins of some pages and water stains in corners of blank margins only on a few pages.  Three pages with small piece out of the corner of the blank margins. Heavy paperboard covers with gold embossed cloth spine exc+….29.50

FW24 - “ZEPPELINS OVER ENGLAND” by F. T. von Buttlar Brandenfels; translated from the German by Huntley Paterson.  First edition; pub. New York 1932, Harcourt, Brace & Co.  320 pages plus 26 extra photo illus on separate plates.  Exc. +.  Original hard cloth covers show minor shelf wear; some dinginess from age but very sound….27.50

FW26 - “TEXTBOOK OF AERO ENGINES” by E. H. Sherbondy & G. D. Wardrop.  Pub. New York 1920 by F. A. Stokes Co.  363 pages (plus pages of interesting ads for aviation engines at back).  Large 9 x 11 ½.  Profusely illus with fine detailed photos plus many textual drawings, graphs and other illus.  An important phase of study.  Exc. +. Cloth hard covers; some shelf wear, but very sound vg to exc………………………54.50

FW27 - “DIE LUFTWAFFE 1918.”  (“German Air Force 1918”).  Pub. Berlin 1918.  158 pages (5 x 7) plus many extra full page plates with photo illus plus some textual drawings of planes.  German text.  Includes German Naval Air Service.  Paper cover intact (some wear, but sound) lacks back paper cover; spine chipped.  Some light aging and few brown spots, but generally very sound and exc……32.50










 

FW28 - “THE AVIATION POCKET-BOOK FOR 1918; A COMPENDIUM OF MODERN PRACTICE AND A COLLECTION OF USEFUL NOTES, FORMULAE, RULES, TABLES AND DATA RELATING TO AERONAUTICS” R. B. Matthews.  Sixth edition, revised and enlarged. Published London, 1918 by Crosby Lockwood & Son.  362 pages plus 127 extra pages loaded with interesting advertisements by aircraft manufacturers and those making accessories for aircraft.  4 x 6 ½.  Illus with textual drawings.  Exc. +. Cloth hard covers with some shelf wear, but very sound vg to exc………………47.50

ITEM XF185 - “THE OLD FLYING DAYS” by Major C. C. Turner.  Although undated it is circa 1925; pub by Sampson Low, Marston & Co., London.  Thick 374 pages; 6 x 9.  Plus many photo illus plates.  Concerned almost exclusively with pre-World War I flying, written by an aviator intimately familiar with the aviation world in England and the personalities comprising it during those years.  Not only interesting reading, but much good research material not seen available in most other works.  Exc. + in.  Orig. hard cloth covers a bit dusty and some shelf wear around edges, but very sound.  Inscribed on inner flyleaf “Bernard Isaac” whose name appears four times mentioned throughout the book, where he is credited as “one of the earliest men in aviation in this country.  He founded the Aeroplane supply company in 1907” describing his catalog as being one of the most interesting and important in connection with the development of flying…and he was the London manager of the famous Hendon Aerodrome where all the important and historic British flights took place…………………74.50

ITEM XF182 -  “THE FLYING BOOK:  THE AVIATION WORLD WHO’S WHO AND INDUSTRIAL DIRECTORY…1914 EDITION.”  Pub 1914 by “Aviation World Pub Co., Bournemouth, England.”  184 pages (6 x 8). Fabulous wealth of important information on identification and profuse biographic sketches of famous aviators of the period as well as significant listing of manufacturing firms of all the important European countries.  First half of the book with very clear, detailed profile drawings of all “modern airplanes” of all countries from the pre-1910 period through to 1914; plus fine detail drawings of all famous aircraft engines of all countries.  Great for research.  Exc. + inside.  Fancy hard paperboard covers weak on inner hinge of front cover and spine covering lacking, but easily repaired.  Scarce……………84.50

ITEM XF44 - Taking advantage of America’s early craze for aviation !  1910 dated sheet music with very colorful cover depicting earliest type of open fuselage, pusher type biplane flying over flatland at sunset and huge bright red title “YANKEE BIRD” (March and Two-Step).  6 page sheet music 10 x 13 ½ published 1910 by Rossiter Music Co. Chicago.  Pages loose.  Some short edge tears on all margins, but intact and displayable…34.50








 

ITEM XF4 - A wealth of important WWI aviation information and illustrations:  “THE FLYING BOOK:  1917 EDITION.”  Edited by W. L. Wade.  Pub. 1917 by Aviation World Pub. Co. / Bournemouth, England.  291 pages; 5 ½ x 8.  Hundreds of fine quality, detailed, profile drawings of all airplanes of the world at that time, including many predecessor early planes leading up to World War I plus numerous diagrams of airships.  Much other textual information plus some photographic plates and very lengthy listings of all types of companies and organizations having to do with aeronautics and their addresses (both Europe and America).  Plus fine lengthy bio-sketches of “Who’s Who in Aviation” and lengthy details and listings of the “Royal Flying Corps” as of July, 1914 their organization, squadrons, names of flyers, promotions, medals awarded and those mentioned in “dispatches.”  Superb reference. Exc. + inside, plus the numerous pages of front and back of advertising by aero firms.  Hard cloth covers.  Just some light wear, but very sound and exc.  Much important historical reference and research material……84.50

ITEM BG200 - Fine quality WWI U.S. Aviator’s sterling silver three piece wings. Each piece soundly affixed to a black cloth covered, stiff (possibly thin wood) background with original pin back. Extremely fine details on the feathered wings with a equally fine detailed silver American shield in center on which are two gold letters "US." Wing spread 3 and 3¾ inches overall (of the backing) 3 and 5/8 inches. Just normal aging and wear and typical tarnishing (giving it lots of character) would rate as exc. +. Original pin back……$1750.00

ITEM BG191 - "UTILIZATION AND ROLE OF ARTILLERY AVIATORS IN TRENCH WARFARE." Official manual published by U.S. Army; Washington 1917 with bold warning at top of title page "CONFIDENTIAL !...NOT TO BE TAKEN INTO FRONT LINE TRENCHES." It is also noted in lesser type size on title page "Translated at the Army War College from a French translation of a captured German document August, 1917." 24 pages. 5 x 7½ . Just light aging generally exc. Lacking only the thin paper covers…….$29.50


 

ITEM BG190 - WWII U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force life raft survival knife and sheath. In mint unissued condition. Uniquely designed and appearing survival tool with bright yellow handle part wood and part canvas covered cork. Oddly curved shaped and pierced 2½ inch single edge blade with most original dark lacquer finish. Marked near tip "WESTERN" (mfr.). Believed the blade intended to cut parachute cords after floating down. Upper section of handle hollowed in back and still retains its original affixed long cord with its opposite end fastened to special brass grommet on the original matching leather sheath. That russet leather sheath is affixed to a larger overall 5 x 9 rubber patch from the life raft. Snap fastener on the scabbard locks into its matching piece on the handle of the knife. In mint unissued condition. Identical to that illustrated and described in classic reference work "U.S. Military Knives" by M. H. Cole Vol. III………$94.50

ITEM BG166 - U.S. SIGNAL CORPS gauge to measure wind velocity. Type of an instrument that would have been used on an airfield. 14 inches overall of all bronze / brass construction with deep original darkened / blackened finish. 2¾ inch circular heavy gauge in center measures both miles and speed of wind. Large deep markings on outer rim of dial "SIGNAL CORPS U.S. ARMY" with "NO. 2" and New York maker’s name SCHNEIDER BROS. The bottom section would appear to fit over a tripod or other upright fixture while the small protrusion at top is obviously the piece that fits into the large wind vanes (not with it) that would be spun around by the force of the wind causing that center rod to rotate and register on the dial the wind speed. Weighs approx. 2 lbs…….$49.50
 

ITEM BG161 - A popular, privately purchased American soldier’s accessory during World War I, especially for field use. AN INFLATABLE RUBBER PILLOW. Brown drab color (12 x 17) with small affixed metal mouth piece for inflating marked with PATENT DATE 1916 "A. SCHRADER'S SON INC. NEW YORK, U.S.A" Manufacturer’s markings stamped in corner "HODGMAN RUBBER CO. IN NEW YORK…MAKERS." Still attached is original paper label on how to inflate and deflate, etc. Neatly lettered on both sides (showing proper aging) is the original U.S. Airman’s personal markings "R. H. HUNTER 84’TH AERO SQUADRON." Shows little use and would undoubtedly still hold its air. With its original matching color rubber carrying case with snap fastener also stamped with manufacturer and named "KHAKI KOMFORT KUSHION". All exc. +. A good night’s sleep was awful important…then, as now !............$47.50

ITEM BG150 - "ELEMENTS D’AVIATION" by Victor Tatin; published Paris, 1908. Early treatise on aviation. 65 page French text plus 10 pages of interesting ads for aviation equipment and material of that early flying era. Profusely illus with photographs and line drawings. Light aging, but exc. +. Original fancy red paper covers; dusty only around edges with some chips and minor pieces out only on edges and corners. Entirely devoted to the development of flight between 1903 and 1908…………..$69.50



 

ITEM BG146 - "AVIATION STORIES" by J. E. Thomson. Published 1929 by Longmans, Green & Co., N.Y. 250 pages. 5½ x 7½; photo illus. First five chapters devoted to Lindbergh and his flight. Much more on other record setting aviation of those early years for airplanes, balloons, dirigibles and one chapter devoted to "America’s first aeronaut" Charles Durant with "…astonishing facts about this forgotten hero." Exc. + with very fancy hard cloth covers. ………$37.50


 

ITEM BG60 -"ALL ABOUT AIRCRAFT OF TODAY." By F. A. Talbot. Pub. by Cassell & Co., Ltd., London. Although undated on title page, it does bear the 1919 date on the last page of the book and also includes a written personal inscription dated "1919" when it was given as a gift. 360 pages. 6 x 8. Plus wealth of extra photo plates of then-current planes, engines, equipment and more. Just light aging and wear, but very sound. Fancy, colorful hard cloth covers. Some light shelf wear only…………$39.50



 

ITEM BG46 - FAMOUS ITALIAN AIRCRAFT MANUFACTURERS CATALOG DATED 1928 OF ERNESTO BREDA, MILAN ITALY. Unusually large size 10 x 12½ . Total 72 pages with very very profuse superb quality, sharp detail photo illus plus numerous detailed drawings of their various BREDA aircraft both land and seaplanes with details of all. Italian text superb condition. Original very fancy paper covers only shows some wear, dust around the edges and some slightest tattering in few spots on the extreme blank edges of margin; all very minor. Rare and important early aviation catalog…140.00

ITEM BG20 - WWI French airship (balloon) flight mechanic’s insignia. Original single wing and spoke wheel beige silk, embroidered insignia on 2½ x 3 typical French blue-gray wool patch (few small moth holes only) normal aging. Exc. Orig. WWI and quite scarce…….$110.00

 

ITEM BG18 - "GERMAN AVIATION" ("DEUTSCHE LUFTFAHRT"). Berlin, 1925 dated, large handsome work on aviation in that country in those early post-war years. 140 pages; large 9½ x 12; printed on fine coated paper. Extremely profuse photo illus. throughout. German military and civilian flying machines including some very early "Junkers" 18 passenger air coaches. German text. Exc. +. Original cloth hard covers only show wear mostly around tops and bottoms of spine and in corners. Loaded with intriguing illustrations, many not seen elsewhere…….$49.50

ITEM BG15 - An early history of balloon and airplane flight just five years prior to the Wright Brothers entry on the scene. 1898 dated French "L’AERONAUTIQUE" by Prof. M. Banet-Rivet; published under the auspices of the Library of Science and Industry by L. Henry May Paris 1898. 271 pages; French text; loaded with fine drawing illus of balloons early flying machines; portraits of famous aviators; much fascinating equipment for the use of those early balloons; gondolas and much more. Although the majority of course is the history (up to the present 1898 time) of ballooning and there is an intriguing chapter on "Les Volaturs" that is the early aviation flying machines including illus of those planes of Langley Tatin and even the four winged very odd flying machine of Harim Maxim and experiences of famous Otto Lilienthal and more. Original paper covers and all exc. + and even almost mint. With very fine quality professional cloth hard covers binding added for permanent preservation (exc. +)…….$89.50

ITEM BG11 - "C.C. PHELPS…MFR. OF GAS AND HOT AIR BALLOONS AND APARATUS…AERIAL EXHIBITIONS FURNISHED FOR ALL OCCASIONS BY THE BEST AND MOST DARING ARTIST IN THE COUNTRY…MCCONNELLSVILLE, N.Y." is the very fancy printed letterhead of this unused / blank 8½ x 11 lettersheet with quaint large illustration of three of their various balloons (including parachute) flying over the grounds with further heading in sign "C.C. Phelps Mgr., Blissfield Balloon Association now open season of 1898." Although letter unused, it does indicate that the date to be filled in would have been prior to 1910 with the printed numerals "190-." Just light aging. Exc. +. Minor tear top center. Very graphic appearance……$32.50

ITEM BG4 - Early catalog of dealer specializing in aviation books ! 12 page (3½ x 6½) for a New York City firm named "AERONAUTICS." Catalog titled: "BOOKS ON AERONAUTICS." Lists, describes and prices 84 then-current in-print books available. Divided into sections of technical works, non-tech, engine design; air fiction and even kites and models. Exc. +. Original envelope; accompanied by two other letters on fancy printed letterhead of "Aeronautics" firm (each with their own envelope) to customers regarding subscriptions to their service; dated 1914 / 15. Exc ……$19.50

 

ITEM SA983 - "1908" dated invitation to: "THE CHRISTENING AND FIRST ASCENSION OF THE BIG BALLOON ‘PHILADELPHIA’ FROM THE U.G.I. ATHLETIC GROUNDS [AT] 29’TH STREET AND PASSYUNK AVE [PHILA] SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 1908…INFLATION WILL COMMENCE AT 10 A.M." Original fancy printed card, 4 x 6 (blank reverse) with quaint illustration of that circular balloon with open gondola suspended below and fancy printing "Membership Invitation…Philadelphia Aeronautical Recreation Society…organized for the purpose of advancing aeronautical recreation for ladies and gentlemen" (with names of officers; also mentions the trolley cars which may be taken to attend the grounds !). Inscribed with name of member who was invited. Normal aging. Exc…..$59.50

ITEM SA973 - He broke the world’s altitude record. Original Oct. 5, 1921 dated "Associated News Service" poster depicting (and describing) U.S. Army Lieut. J. A. MACREADY of McCook Field Dayton, Ohio "…immediately after his record breaking climb of 40,800 feet…special appliances enabled his motor to operate in the rarefied air…" Photo shows him in full gear with face mask, goggles, oxygen mask and fur lined flying suit. A second photo of him standing with helmet off, holding on to nose of the airplane. Light aging. Few tiny nicks on blank margins all negligible; exc. Historic aviation material…..$84.50
 

ITEM SA972 - The Wright Brothers first contract with the U.S. Army for an airplane 1907. Includes: (1) single sheet broadside (8½ x 15; blank reverse) "SIGNAL CORPS SPECIFICATION NO. 486… ADVERTISEMENT…FOR A HEAVIER-THAN-AIR FLYING MACHINES…TO THE PUBLIC:…" with all the details issued for an open bid with the first airplane to be purchased 1907 by the U.S. Army Signal Service. Some aging lower section with some very light damp staining and a darker stain in the lower left corner. Few chips on the lower blank margin…(2) Series of six 8 ½ X 10 manila sheets (each blank on reverse) the copies of the "War Department…Office of the Chief Signal Officer" original contract forms and signatures of the Wright Brothers for their "heavier-than-air flying machine" contracted and signed December 23, 1907 in amount of $25,000 for the first payment of a purchase for military service. Just light aging. Minor damp stain extreme blank corner; otherwise exc. These are copies of all those original documents made sometime subsequent to 1907. They are definitely not modern photostatic (or other copy machine) duplicates, but items that were probably made for some official gov’t or Air Service publication in the early 1900’s and likely no later than the 1920’s (just guessing at that…but they do have definite age). Fascinating historic material merely in the reading of them…and would make great display pieces. The group…39.50

ITEM SA965 - WWI circa 1914-1918 German Naval Air Service black silk ribbon for enlisted man’s blue wool visorless cap. The 1¼ inch wide ribbon still in its full 52 inch length. Beautifully embroidered in bright silver silk thread almost three quarters of an inch high "II. SEEFLIEGER = ABTEILUNG. II." ("Naval Seaplane Unit II"). Exc. +. Rare……..$165.00

ITEM SA927 - A memento of his historic first cross-Atlantic flight. Handsome, colorful, patented, China plate (issued by the "Limoges China Company / Sebring, Ohio") bright yellow and gold edged with full color design in center ringed by floral wreath with portrait of "COL. LINDBERGH" and even his famous "spirit of St. Louis" plane above. Boldly lettered "First to navigate the air in continuous flight from New York to Paris, 1927." In gold letters baked into the design above the wreath the name of company that gave this away as a keepsake: "RALPH BROS.; EASTON, PA." 8½ x 8½ . Issued immediately after Lindbergh’s landing in Paris and his return to U.S. shores. Normal aging, but exc. + and better. Very showy………….$135.00

ITEM SA907 - U.S. Naval Service intelligence reports circa 1917-1918... and probably UNPUBLISHED! Series of four original typewritten copies (on typical World War I era type paper) each with docketing holes at top. Series of five reports totaling 38 pages. After docketing, they were bound together on a manila-type folder, once again docketed, and bound together with narrow cord. Cover with original large rubber stamp two line marking "INTELLIGENCE AND PLANNING DIVISION…AVIATION FORCE, FOREIGN SERVICE." Each of the five typed reports headlined "U.S. Navy Aeronautic Detachment No. 1 Paris, France" or "Hdqtrs U.S. Navy Department…Paris, France." The reports are: (1) Report of operations to date…report of Lt. Cmdr. Whiting on operations up to July, 1917. (2) Memo. Of September 16, 1917 as to policy, personnel and material…and seaplanes. (3) Information / suggestions for use of seaplanes August 26, 1917 from Lt. Cmdr. Whiting to Vice Adm. Sims." (4) "Report of Lt. Cmdr. Whiting relating to method of obtaining aeroplanes for service in France." (5) "Situation at Dunkirk in use of Fighting Seaplanes. Report of…Whiting December 10, 1917." Just normal aging. Exc. Written also in bold pencil across top of cover "CONFIDENTIAL." Accompanied by two other original typical World War I tissue thin typed copies of very important "History of U.S. Naval Aviation, its trials, occasional triumphs…[etc.]" in the late war and "since the Armistice" and another original copy "Tabulated lists of aircraft at hand at stations abroad when received and at time of Armistice…"….$195.00

ITEM SA815  - Early black leather aviator’s helmet. Exc. Fine quality, supple leather with matching leather visor and chin strap with slide type, black finished frame buckle. Original full soft black wool (or felt) lining. Although showings its aging, leather in very fine condition. Just some minor scuff marks along back of crown only; would rate as exc. +. A private-purchase civilian-type. Scarce style.……….$150.00

 

ITEM SA855 - Worn only 1915 to 1917 rare early French naval aviator’s badge. Quite elegantly made single wing of all gold sequins embroidered with large gold bouillon edging and bright red silk center; bouillon embroidered of 5 point star. Two inches overall on its original navy blue wool 3 x 3 square patch; showing its aging, but exc. + condition. This badge usually worn sewn to a matching navy blue wool arm band for "Officier Pilote Titulaire du Brevet Militaire d’Aviation." Ext. +.………$145.00
 

ITEM SA888 - World War I French naval aviator’s gold and silver embroidered badge. Very large open wings (3½ inch spread) with a 1½ inch high vertical anchor between them having a star-like motif in the center of its shank. All fashioned on a 2½ x 4½ dark blue wool patch. Shows its aging. Nice old patina to the gilt and silver embroidery. Exc. +. Rare…$150.00

ITEM SA832 - 1915 dated "CURTISS FLYING BOATS" catalog of the Curtiss Aeroplane Company Buffalo, NY. Rare 23 page catalog of this most famed early American airplane builder. 6 x 9. Illustrated and describing three models then in production (models F, H and K) plus air engines for same (all three) plus fine illus. of the factory production floor with a model H in mid-assembly. Exc. +. Historical.……………$175.00







 

ITEM SA803 - Unusual collection of five all different commemorative felt pads, each approximately 3 x 6; each a different color commemorating certain high points in early aviation history. These will probably date prior to 1910. Possibly originally intended as blotters or even pen wipes, (although they appear to be much better quality then to have been used for such purposes). Applied separately to each in very delicate white cotton thread are earliest of airships and airplanes each boldly captioned in that same cotton thread: (1) "U.S.A. Baldwin dirigible" (that was designed by Glen Curtiss and was the first practical airship 1904)…(2) "Astra" monoplane…(3) "Ponnier monoplane"…(4) "Ville de Paris…French dirigible"…(5) "Mengim monoplane." All show their genuine aging. Just light minor fading, but exc. +. Decorative and historic. The set of five.......$135.00



 

ITEM SA799 - "PROVISIONAL INSTRUCTIONS…ON THE ORGANIZATION AND USE OF THE CORRECTOR FOR THE ANTI-AIRCRAFT FIRING OF INFANTRY MACHINE GUNS" published Paris, October, 1917 (translated to English from earlier French edition of April, 1917) for issuance to U.S. Army A.E.F. Forces for their "…information and guidance of machinegun units of this expedition armed with a Hotchkiss Machine gun model of 1914." 41 pages. 4½ x 8. Three large foldout plates; original heavy paper covers; exc. + just some lightest aging on edges with bold printing at top of front cover "CONFIDENTIAL…NOT TO BE TAKEN INTO FIRST LINE TRENCHES…ISSUED DOWN TO INCLUDE MACHINE GUN OFFICERS."…$27.50

ITEM SA802 - Delicately made silk scarf WWI souvenir for ROYAL AIR FORCE aviator’s wife or sweetheart. 17 x 17; white with wide pink silk border. Exquisitely embroidered in full color (green, red, gold and brown) on one corner with RAF flying eagle, wings surmounted by crown; wreath and leaves; and scrolled banner with large "ROYAL AIR FORCE" in red silk. Showing its aging, but extremely fine, exc. + condition and amazing to find it this beautifully maintained. Handsome appearance and authentic WWI circa 1918. Very decorative for display………..$59.50

ITEM SA791 - EARLIEST FORM OF U.S. AIR SERVICE INTERCOM circa World War I. This is the main box; nicely made, all dove-tail constructed 6 x 10 small wooden chest with brass hinged lid. Lower front of box with numerous outlets (for plugging in phone and mike jacks) with six individually marked brass plates on front edge of lid identifying the various outlets for "Phones – Receiver – Radio – Extension…etc. etc." When lid open reveals the original full schematic label showing this box and identifying it as "SCR [Signal Core Radio] 57-A Interphone Set" and identified how varying aviator and observer helmets are to be plugged in and various other fittings that could be used with it as well as manner in which "Observer’s Headset" as well as pilot’s are to be plugged into box and used. All internal wiring, condensers, etc. appear intact. Two long channeled wood inserts identify where batteries are to be placed. Showing its age, but exc. condition. Large iron switch on reverse. Although not so-labeled (and shows no provision where it ever had such a label) almost identical boxes are known bearing markings of "Western Electric Company" with 1918 dates. Rare with established auction values between $400 and $750…………..$375.00

ITEM SA724 - "PROPELLERS MFD BY THE CRAWFORD MOTOR AND AEROPLANE MANUFACTORY…NEW ORLEANS, LA…FOR THE AERIAL PROPULSION OF AEROPLANES, HYDRO-AEROPLANES, FLYING BOATS, DIRIGIBLES, WIND WAGONS…CANAL BOATS…SNOW AND ICE SLEDS…[etc.]…" 4 page (6 x 9½) advertising brochure by that company (established in 1910) issued circa 1920-1921. Lists specific sizes, prices of various propellers and Crawford’s own words "…I will put my professional…blades up against any others as to efficiency, durability, strength, etc…" and other claims. ACCOMPANIED BY another 4 page brochure (same size) by same company with headline "A few of our hundreds of pleased customers" filled with testimonials of those who bought his aero propellers…PLUS a single sheet (5½ x 9) ad brochure also by Crawford Motor and Aero Manufactory (both sides) offering his "PROPELLER COUNTER SHAFTING" accessory for installing his propellers…with details and prices. Light aging; all exc. The three as a group just. ……………$34.50

ITEM SA716 - "AERONAUTICS IN THE U.S. AT THE SIGNING OF THE ARMISTICE NOVEMBER 11, 1918…AN ADDRESS BEFORE THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS" by Geo. O. Squier, Maj. Gen’l, Chief Signal Officer, U.S. Army. 64 pages plus 6 full page photo plates. 6 x 9. Fine history of U.S. Air Service and American military aviation from its inception 1908 through to 1918. Published 1919. Exc. + and with orig. paper covers. Old tape repair only to edge of spine. Scarce and valuable reference…………..$37.50

SA515 - SOUVENIR OF CHARLES LINDBERGH’S HISTORIC FIRST FLIGHT ACROSS THE ATLANTIC FROM NEW YORK TO PARIS.
Fine quality multi-colored commemorative tapestry 20 x 54. Large portrait bust of the aviator wearing the French "Legion of Honor" medal in center and his famous "SPIRIT OF ST. LOUIS" plane behind him over a panel with his name. On opposite sides are tapestries of scenic view of city and harbor of New York with Statue of Liberty in foreground and on right side city of Paris with Eiffel Tower (different views of his plane flying over each). Fancy border. Although fading from its age, everything is clear. Sturdily made in France (and so marked) on reverse, the very same year as the world famous flight, 1927. Historic aviation material and great for display...…$250.00

SA501 - WWI IMPERIAL GERMAN ARMY, LARGE 1914-1918 POSTER WARNING THEIR INFANTRY AND FIELD TROOPS TO STAY ALERT FOR BRITISH AIRCRAFT, TO TAKE COVER AND BE SURE THAT ROAD TRAFFIC DOES NOT COME TO A HALT. Probably unique. 27 x 36 (blank on reverse) entirely in black and white. Very striking appearance. Upper half in almost cartoon-like illustration of two biplanes with British wing insignia, bombing and observing German troops running for cover on the ground, while a bomb explodes on a parking lot of supply wagons. In foreground troops taking cover in a local brick house with their supply wagons parked at either side of the road. Very bold German wording (over 4 inches high): "NOW THE ENEMY’S AIRMEN CAN SEE YOU !...Vehicular traffic must not be permitted to halt." Complete. Few small tears on fold. Two small narrow holes in center slightly touching a few of the letters, but not obscuring them. Two small pieces out on right edge in blank area. A few very minor edged nicks or slight chips. The type of item of which there probably is no other known copy. Extremely rare and a significant early military aviation history...$1,500.00

SA502 - THE VERY FIRST COMPLETED AIR FLIGHT AROUND THE WORLD…APRIL TO SEPT. 1924 BY THE U.S. ARMY AIR SERVICE. Original large 24 x 37 poster issued by Mobil Oil Company to boast about the fact that the Air Service chose Mobil "…TO LUBRICATE THE GREATEST FLIGHT OF ALL TIME." (In a smaller bright red sub-headline). Huge 2½ inch high bold heading "THE END OF THE GREAT ADVENTURE." Ten panels with photo illus. of the flight in various countries in which they stopped (with captions on each). The flight started with four planes; only two made the complete trip. It was a major feat creating much public interest and furthering the advance of aviation. Fascinating poster; generally exc. condition for something this "delicate." Few short edge tears and one or two minor easily repairable tears on folds. Center panel also shows map of the entire trip with red markings indicating where they stopped for refueling along the way…………$350.00

SA492 - FAMOUS EARLY AVIATION TROPHY NAMED AFTER ONE OF MOST HISTORICAL PERSONAGES IN EARLY AVIATION AND PRESENTED TO AN OUTSTANDING AVIATION PERSONAGE. Very heavy weight approx. 1 lb. bronze medal 3 inches in diameter; deeply marked along bottom "HARMON TROPHY" with very high relief full standing figure of aviator with eagle by his side and holding above head a biwing plane (with silver finish). About 95 percent plus original gilt finish overall still remains on the medal itself. Aviator standing on pedestal base deeply marked "THE SILVER WINGS OF PEACE." Along edge deeply marked in tiny letters with name of artist who designed the medal. Relief marked in large letters (in French wording) on back "INTERNATIONAL LEAGUE OF AVIATORS…MEDAL OF HONOR"…and deep mark with name of recipient "EDWARD P. WARNER"…and (in French) "GREAT FRIEND OF AVIATORS…1929." Warner played a very important role in aeronautical history especially during WWI and after; authored many aero technical works, articles and papers, etc. Exc. +. ….$395.00

SA507 - APRIL 12, 1920 DATED POSTER INTENDED FOR PUBLIC DISPLAY IN HUNDREDS OF POPULAR MEETING SPOTS AND STORE WINDOWS THROUGHOUT AMERICA. Announces a record flight "NEW YORK TO BOSTON…IN 90 MINUTES…an Army airplane…just landing…near Boston in…record time…" with photographic illustration of the large plane having just landed on a beach and surrounded with many gawking civilians. Inset photo of the Army pilots standing by the plane on the beach. Issued by "ASSOCIATED NEWS SERVICE / LATEST WORLD EVENTS AND PICTURES." 14 x 17 (blank on reverse). Few very minor short edge tears right margin. Just normal aging. Exc. An increasingly scarce and fine displayable piece of American aviation history, fast becoming rare Americana….$84.50

SA509 - Invented by the famous Glen Curtiss and actually flown by him. September 11, 1922 dated poster by the "Associated News Service" headlined "MOTORLESS SAILPLANE FLYS." With details about Curtiss and how he "flew without power from the surface of the water. A motor boat towed it at high speed until it rose…then Curtiss cut loose and soared…" Very large illustration of the plane on the ground being held by three people with Curtiss in front. Another photo of it actually flying. 14 x 17 poster; blank reverse. A number of very short nicks and tears mostly on left margin, few elsewhere, but all intact. Very displayable and scarce aviation.………$69.50
 

SA410 - "U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION" embroidered in large gold letters on original, full 35 inch length, wide black silk ribbon as used on WWI circa 1917-18 Naval enlisted man’s winter, blue wool, visorless cap. Normal aging, but exc. +. Very scarce, especially in this superb condition…..………………….$145.00