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Click here to subscribeVarious stamp and First Day Covers to include four stock albums and folder of stamps, two albums of stamp issues, three folders containing various First Day Covers, mostly from the 80s and 90s, two stamp and First Day Cover collector books and a quantity of First Day Covers, stamp and stamp packs.
A quantity of assorted loose and used stamps, First Day Covers, coin covers, banknotes etc, including two 1983 Great British Coin Collection packs, 1983 Royal Mint Uncirculated Heinz Coin collection, two English one pound notes, six Rothmans Cambridge Collection of Rare Banknotes, 1992 New Zealand First Day Cover pack, 1994 New Zealand First Day Cover pack, 1993 New Zealand First Day Cover pack, 1982 First Day Cover pack, New Zealand Collector's Pack 1981, etc.
CRICKET INTEREST; a collection of engravings, signed photographs and score cards including aquatint print 'Cricket match at Balmoral between Abergeldie and Balmoral teams', 15 x 23.5cm, mounted and unframed, print of Jack Hobbs, a signed photograph of Graham Gooch, a century test match case First Day Cover, two further prints, etc.
Assorted ephemera to include: Coronation of Their Majesties King George VI and Queen Elizabeth official souvenir programme, Lucy Attwell's Annual by Dean, Philips' British Empire atlas, Rudyard Kipling, 'His Apologies' a small pamphlet illustrated by R H Buxton, 1969 Investiture of The Prince of Wales First Day Cover envelope, Buckingham Palace letter headed 'Friends of Lakefield College School', signed Andrew, dated 1989, small volume An Ella Wheeler Wilcox Treasury and a set of linen finish playing cards in original carton, but un-opened packet ,depicting birds. (B.P. 21% + VAT)
First World War Distinguished Conduct Medal (D.C.M.) Gallantry medal group comprising D.C.M. named to 14503 SJT. E. Murrell. 2/G.G., 1914 ‘Mons’ Star with 5th Aug. – 22nd. Nov. 1914 clasp named to 14503 SJT. E. Murrell. 2/G. GDS., War and Victory medals named to 14503. W. O. CL. 2. E. Murrell. G. GDS. (mounted on bar).Edward William Murrell was born in Nottingham in August 1889 and began his military career at the age of 20, enlisting with the Grenadier Guards on 3rd November 1909. Following the outbreak of the Great War, he arrived in France on 12th August 1914, serving on the Western Front, where he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal on 22nd June 1915. The newspaper clipping, which details his award, also states he was previously mentioned in dispatches. The citation for the award of the D.C.M. reads ‘‘For conspicuous gallantry as signalling sergeant throughout the campaign. In the day or night, in all conditions of weather, and in spite of heavy shell or rifle fire, he has been out repairing wires whenever broken, regardless of dangers. He has always shown great courage, zeal and resource in the performance of dangerous and difficult duties.’’ He served until 17th November 1916 when he was wounded at Gueudecourt in the Somme and was discharged from military service on 8th May 1917, following the amputation of the lower part of his left leg through the calf.Along with his medals are his original Soldiers’ small book, discharge papers, other service papers, Freedom of the City of London, dated 8th December 1927 and three fascinating ‘war diaries’ which cover in great detail the period leading up to his wounding and also the period following, with his recovery back in Britain. A truly special account of life during the Great War, worthy of research and publication.Provenance: By family descent
RAF Collection of 10 75th ANNIVERSARY OF RAF Cover 1 April 1993 First Day of Issue Postmarks on 75th Anniv of RAF 1918 - 1993 Flown in Different Aircraft & Places stamps RAF(75)5,6.9.10.11.12.13.15.16 17. Good condition. All autographs come with a Certificate of Authenticity. We combine postage on multiple winning lots and can ship worldwide. UK postage from £5.99, EU from £7.99, Rest of World from £9.99
A Danbury mint the post office official commemorative stamp edition of the silver jubilee with four first day cover stamps and an enlarged silver replica, with certificate of authenticity in presentation case, together with a Danbury Mint 'The Queens Silver Jubilee tour 1977' cased set of four stamp tour guide first day covers, and a proof silver ingot.
A SILVER RACING TROPHY PRESENTED BY KING GEORGE V AT THE INTERNATIONAL REGATTA, 1911the tankard with spout, scroll handle and thumbpiece, on three ball and claw feet, the cover mounted with a St. George and the dragon finial, the body applied with a medallion depicting a three-masted 17th century ship and engraved International Cup / First European International Regatta / 1911 / Patron King George V, with Birmingham marks for Elkington & Co., 1911 – 8in. (20.5cm.) high, 665g.Under the patronage of King George V, himself an enthusiastic yachtsman, the European International Regatta – staged in George’s Coronation Year – was a genuine attempt by the King to improve international relations during the period of increasing tensions across Europe prior to the Second World War. The International Cup, for which this was a trophy, was raced on the second day of the Regatta.
Space / Astronomy / Flight / Sport - a collection of x6 signed / flown FDCs, comprising: British Astronomy FDC signed by Patrick Moore, 1966 British Technology FDC signed by Patrick Moore and Bernard Lovell, 2007 The Sky At Night FDC with printed signature of Moore, 1975 Joint Services Expedition cover signed by David Bellamy, Alan Baldwin, and Warren Blake, and x2 flown Columbia Flight STS-2 covers. With a Horse Racing first day cover signed by Lester Piggott and Willie Carson. All with certificates of authenticity.
Football - World Cup 1966 / England - collection of autographs from various England players who participated in the 1966 England V W. Germany World Cup. Includes: Gordon Banks signed 8x12" colour photograph, Bobby and Jack Charlton signed First Day Cover (with certificate) and Geoff Hurst signed 8x10" photograph with 'They Think It's All Over' quote signed in white ink. (3)
A SELECTION OF SILVER ITEMS AND COMMEMORATIVE COINS, to include a large cut glass scent bottle with glass stopper, fitted with a hinged silver domed cover with embossed cherubs, hallmarked Chester rubbed makers mark, together with a Georgian shell shape caddy spoon with fiddle pattern handle engraved monogram, hallmarked 'John Walton' Newcastle 1831, a modern silver caddy spoon with figural terminal, hallmarked 'Francis Howard Ltd' Sheffield 1973, a silver medicine spoon, a silver baby food pusher, and a single fiddle pattern teaspoon, each with a full silver hallmark, approximate gross weight 84.8 grams, together with a boxed silver egg cup and spoon set, egg cup with weighted base, together with a George V 1935 Crown coin, a Five Shillings coin with Sixpence coins, two commemorative coins, a First Decimal coin set and a cased 'The Railway Sesquicentennial Medallic First Day Cover' stamp set
Zoologie - Ornithologie - - J. Delacour u. P. Jabouille. Le Oiseaux de l'Indochine Francaise. Exposition Coloniale Internationale Paris 1931. 4 Bd. Mit 67 Tafeln, davon 66 Farboffsetdrucke. Paris, Exposition Coloniale, 1931. 4°. 282 S. XLVI S. 342 S. LXII S. 346 S. LXXIII S. 296 S. LXVII S. Späterer HLd. mit goldgepr. RTitel. OUmschlag eingebunden (leicht berieben und bestoßen). Erste Ausgabe. - Nissen IVB 228. - Vier Bände zu der Avifauna des heutigen Laos, Indonesien und Kambodscha. Die Region wurde bis in die 1950er Jahre als der indochinesische Raum bezeichnet. - Pierre Jabouille war der Gouverneur von Indochina und hegte ein persönliches Interesse an der Ornithologie. Er ging zusammen mit dem französisch-amerkanischen Ornithologen J. Delacour auf eine Reige von Expeditionen, auf denen sie die heimischen Vögel der Region erkundeten. - Die 67 Tafeln wurden Henrik Grönvold entworfen. - Tafeln nicht numerisch geordnet, aber vollständig enthalten. - Stockfleckig und Seitenränder gebräunt. Tafeln weitgehend unbeeinträchtigt. Insgesamt gut erhalten. Zoology. - Ornithology. - With 67 plates, 66 of which are color offset prints. Later leather with gilt stamped title. Original cover bound in. (Slightly rubbed and bumped.) - First edition. - Nissen IVB 228 - Four volumes on the avifauna of present-day Laos, Indonesia and Cambodia. The region was referred to as the Indochinese region until the 1950s. - Pierre Jabouille was the governor of Indochina and had a personal interest in ornithology. Together with the French-American ornithologist J. Delacour, he went on a series of expeditions on which they explored the native birds of the region. - The 67 plates were designed by Henrik Grönvold. - Plates not arranged numerically, but included in full. - Foxing and page edges browned. Plates largely unaffected. Overall in good condition.
Zoologie - Herpetologie - - Spencer Fullerton Baird. United States Exploring Expedition. During the years 1838, 1839, 1840, 1841 1842 under the command of Charles Wilkes, U.S.N. Vol. XX, Herpetology (with a folio atlas). Mit 23 überwiegend kolorierten oder teilkolorierten gestochenen Tafeln. Philadelphia, Sherman & Son, 1858. (1855 Ophidia, 1856 &1857 Sauria und 1857 Chelonia) Tafeln, 10 S. (Titel u. Tafelverzeichnis), XV, 492 S., 2 Bde. (Text- und Atlas). 4° (Text) und Imperial-Folio OLdr. mit goldgeprägtem Wappensupralibro (American Eagle) und floraler Blindprägung, Innenkantenvergoldung und allseitigem Goldschnitt bzw. OHldr. über fünf Bünden, mit goldgeprägtem Rückentitel. (Atlas). Kein Exemplar seit 1974 auf internationalen Auktionen, zuletzt Sothebys 30.10.1973, (3563-070). Kein Exemplar im weltweiten Handel für uns nachweisbar. Provenienz: Geschenk des U.S. Kongress an den Staat Kansas, (Dedikationsetikett auf dem vorderen Innendeckel), Kansas State Library (Exlibris) George & Laura Gifford, (Exlibris) Prof. Craig Adler, (Exlibris) zuletzt in der Bibliothek Prof. Dr. Manfred Niekisch. Adler, Vol. 1 40,-42,. - Nissen, ZBI 1578 und 4412 20. - BMNH p. 679. - Wood p. 606. - Vanzolini Vol. I p.81-82. - Haskell 99-102 No. 76 & 78. - Cat. Crane Library AC 32. - Extrem seltenes Exemplar der einzigen offiziellen Ausgabe, die nie in den Handel kam, sondern vom U.S. Kongress an Institutionen der verschiedenen Bundesstaaten verschenkt wurde. "No complete set has ever appeared in catalogues or at auctions during my 60 years of book collecting" Adler. Die United States Exploring Expedition oder Wilkes Expedition genannt, war die erste US-amerikanische Expedition in den Pazifik, die als bedeutenste, Erkundungs- und Kartierungsfahrt diente. Sie wurde von der United States Navy von 1838 bis 1842 unter dem Kommando des Admirals und Wissenschaftlers Charles Wilkes (1798-1877) durchgeführt. Er versammelte auf sieben Schiffen etwa 350 Expeditionsteilnehmer verschiedenster Wissenschaften und Professionen. Baird (1823-1887) war der erste Kurator an der Smithonian Institution und ein bedeutender amerikanischer Naturforscher und Zoologe. Er spielte eine entscheidende Rolle bei der Analyse der gesammelten Arten. Der Band ist in mehrere Hauptabschnitte gegliedert, die sich mit verschiedenen taxonomischen Gruppen der Herpetofauna befassen, darunter Schlangen, Echsen, Schildkröten und Amphibien. Baird beschreibt nicht nur die Arten, sondern gibt auch Informationen zu deren Lebensräumen, geografischen Verbreitungen und bemerkenswerten Verhaltensweisen. Besonders hervorzuheben ist das wissenschaftliche und systematische Vorgehen Bairds, das zur Definition und Benennung vieler Arten beitrug, die zuvor unbekannt oder nicht ausreichend dokumentiert waren. Die offizielle Ausgabe (die erste Ausgabe des Berichts) war auf 100 Exemplare begrenzt. Davon wurden 56 Exemplare an ausländische Staaten verteilt, die übrigen Exemplare gingen an die Bibliotheken der US-Bundesstaaten und der Regierung. Bei einem Brand in der Library of Congress im Jahr 1851 wurden viele der verbliebenen Exemplare zerstört. Daniel C. Haskell stellte in einer Bibliographie fest, dass damals von mehreren Bänden nur noch 10 Exemplare existierten und dass sich nur sehr wenige Bände in Privatbesitz befinden. - Von den zuerst geplanten 32 Tafeln (siehe auch Tafelverzeichnis im Atlas) erschienen in der offiziellen Ausgabe aus Kostengründen nur 23,. Später erschien im Verlag von Lippingcott & Co. Noch eine zweite kommerzielle Auflage, welche alle 32 Tafeln enthielt. Diese Ausgabe ist bei weitem nicht so selten wie die erste, aber noch immer ein seltenes Werk. Der Atlas ist in seiner enormen Dimension das physisch größte Werk in der herpetologischen Literatur und dokumentiert nicht nur die Vielfalt der Herpetofauna Nordamerikas, sondern zeigt auch die Fortschritte in der wissenschaftlichen Methodik und Illustration an. Die künstlerisch eindrucksvollen und wissenschaftlich präzisen Tafeln wurden von Dougal nach Zeichnungen von Winship Weise Shoemaker und Richard gestochen. Baird's Arbeit hat die Grundlage für viele späteren Studien und Klassifikationen in der Herpetologie gelegt und bleibt bis heute ein bedeutendes Referenzwerk in der Zoologie. Zoology. - Herpretology. - With 23 mostly colored or partly colored engraved plates. 2 vols. (text and atlas). 4° (text) and imperial folio OCalf with gilt-stamped heraldic supralibro (American Eagle) and floral blind embossing, gilt inner edges and gilt edges on all sides or OHcalf over five bands, with gilt-stamped spine title. (Atlas). No copy since 1974 at international auctions, last Sothebys 30.10.1973, (3563-070). No specimen traceable for us in worldwide trade. - Provenance: Gift of the U.S. Congress to the State of Kansas (dedication label on the inside front cover), Kansas State Library (bookplate), George & Laura Gifford (bookplate), Prof. Craig Adler (bookplate), most recently in the library of Prof. Dr. Manfred Niekisch. Extremely rare copy of the first official edition only, which never went on sale, but was given as a gift by the U.S. Congress to institutions in the various states. "No complete set has ever appeared in catalogues or at auctions during my 60 years of book collecting" Adler. The United States Exploring Expedition, or Wilkes Expedition, was the first U.S. expedition to the Pacific Ocean for exploration and mapping. It was carried out by the United States Navy from 1838 to 1842 under the command of Admiral and scientist Charles Wilkes. He assembled around 350 expedition members from a wide range of sciences and professions on seven ships. Baird (1823-1887), was the first curator at the Smithonian Institution and an important American naturalist and zoologist. He played a crucial role in analyzing the species collected. The volume is divided into several main sections dealing with different taxonomic groups of herpetofauna, including snakes, lizards, turtles and amphibians. Baird not only describes the species, but also provides information on their habitats, geographical distributions and notable behaviors. Particularly noteworthy is Baird's scientific and systematic approach, which contributed to the definition and naming of many species that were previously unknown or insufficiently documented. The official edition (the first edition of the report) was limited to 100 copies. Of these, 56 copies were distributed to foreign countries, with the remaining copies going to U.S. state and federal government libraries. A fire at the Library of Congress in 1851 destroyed many of the remaining copies. Daniel C. Haskell noted in a bibliography report that only 10 copies of several volumes still existed at the time and that very few volumes were in private hands. - Of the 32 plates initially planned (see also the list of plates in the atlas), only 23 were published in the official edition for cost reasons. published a second, commercial edition which contained all 32 plates. This edition is not nearly as rare as the first, but is still a rare work. The Atlas is physically the largest work in the herpetological literature in its enormous size, documenting not only the diversity of the herpetofauna of North America, but also indicating the advances in scientific methodology and illustration. Baird's work laid the foundation for many later studies and classifications in herpetology and remains a major reference work in zoology to this day.
Sold by Order of a Direct DescendantThe unique and superbly well-documented 'Far East Communication Squadron 1950' A.F.M. group of seven awarded to Master Signaller J. B. C. Browne, Royal Air Force, who was awarded his Nuclear Test Medal for the 'Christmas Airways' flights to Christmas Island during Operation GrappleBrowne's remarkable career saw him flying during the Second World War, earning his A.F.M. in the east for flights which included missions to China redacted from his service papers and flying the Royal Couple during their 1961 Royal Tour of NepalAir Force Medal, G.VI.R. (571907 Sig. I. J. B. C. Browne. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 2 clasps, Malaya, Arabian Peninsula (571907 Sig. I.A. J. B. C. Browne. R.A.F.), the second detached in its named box of issue; Royal Air Force L.S. & G.C., E.II.R. (M. Sig. J. B.C. Browne. (571907) R.A.F.); Nuclear Test Medal, unnamed as issued, the first six mounted as worn, the last in its named box of issue, sold together with a large archive including the recipient's flying log books, minor contact wear to sixth, overall good very fine (7)A.F.M. London Gazette 8 June 1950, the original recommendation states:'Signaller I Browne joined the Squadron in October, 1948, having been in Japan from October, 1947, and has been employed as a V.I.P. Signaller. He is a first class non-commissioned officer with exceptional technical ability, having consistently held an 'A' category since August, 1946. During the last six months he has completed 300 flying hours on some of the most important flights assigned to this Squadron, and he has also extended his 'A' category to cover York aircraft as well as the Dakota, the type in which he is primarily signaller and, on numerous long distance flights during his tour of duty in the Far East Communication Squadron, he has carried out his duties in an exemplary manner. He has shown ability, coolness and enthusiasm and is an outstanding non-commissioned officer.'Note the Recipient's Flying Log Book for the period of 1947-1952 is missing, it is believed to have been recalled owning to a redacted mission in China rather than misplaced or lost.John Blake Cameron Browne (who later changed his surname to Howard) was born in Kensington, London on 19 February 1922, the son of Andrew and Wilhelmina 'Billy' Browne. His father was a former professional soldier who served as a Sergeant-Major with the Essex Regiment and was seriously wounded in the leg at Gallipoli. He appears to have suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and left the family in 1929 leaving his wife to raise the children herself. The young Browne received only a basic education however this was enough for him to pass the entrance tests for an apprenticeship at R.A.F. Halton on 24 August 1937.He was initially posted to the Electrical and Wireless School before transferring to No. 2 Wireless School on 26 March 1938. He must have proven himself a quick learner as he was soon selected to leave Halton for Cranwell, where he specialised as a Signaller. He was still there on the outbreak of the Second World War on 3 September 1940, they spent the day dispersing the aircraft around the perimeter of the airfield in case of air raids.The Second World WarQualifying as Wireless Electrical Mechanic on 29 January 1940, Browne reached his majority the next month on 19 February and was appointed Aircraftman Class I the same day. Posted first to No. 29 Squadron and advanced Leading Aircraftman on 1 April 1940 he served with them at R.A.F. Digby. Here he was on the receiving end of several bombing raids, being promoted Corporal on 31 December 1940. The Squadron re-equipped with Bristol Beaufighters to replace their old Blenheims not long later.Transferring to R.A.F. Pembury he undertook an air gunner's course, becoming qualified on 6 January 1943 and advanced Sergeant on 7 January. Joining No. 10 Radio School Carew Cheriton, he served there until 17 February 1943 when he was posted to Coastal Command's 131 Operational Training Unit which was located on Loch Erne in Northern Ireland. There he had his first flight on a Catalina flying boat on 18 February.Having qualified, Browne was posted to the newly formed 265 Squadron based in Northern Madagascar. After a gruelling journey across Africa, he finally reached the posting in early June and began to undertake fleet escort and search and rescue missions as Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. Racking up increasing Operational flying time in December he had 250 hours and was advanced Flight Sergeant on 6 January 1944.Over the next year he was to continue in this role, adding Meteorological Flights to his duties. The last of Browne's wartime flying was with 265 Squadron having undertaken 562 hours of Operational flight with them and an impressive 1076 hours in total. Posted to R.A.F. Wymeswold on 5 May 1945, he arrived on 8 May - V.E. Day - to discover the station all but deserted, the guard on the front gate informed him that everyone was celebrating in the pub.V.I.P. Flying, a Redacted Mission and a Crash LandingBrowne retrained with Douglas Dakotas and was soon posted to 147 Squadron, flying for Transport Command. This Squadron flew from Britain to Europe allowing Browne to assemble a collection of European banknotes which he stuck into his log books.Joining 24 Squadron for V.I.P. transport flights in October 1946 he was posted to the British Commonwealth Air Force in Japan the following year. The next year Browne again moved, this time to the Far East Communications Squadron. Two months after he joined them a period of one week on his service records is redacted, this combined with his missing log book covering this period is suggestive of a clandestine mission. The cataloguer must leave it to the reader to imagine the nature of this work however it occurred at a time that Browne was known to have been flying to China, then embroiled in the Civil War.Returning to Britain in April 1950 he was awarded the Air Force Medal at R.A.F. North Luffenham for his work with the Far East Communication Squadron. His work there had also entitled him to the Malaya bar for his General Service Medal however this would not be issued at the time and Browne was to receive the G.S.M. for a separate campaign. Joining 242 Operational Conversion Unit as a Trainer and he was recommended a Commission at that point however he rejected the offer, feeling that he preferred his role as a Warrant Officer.Returning to No. 24 Squadron on 6 December 1953 he rang in the new year with a promotion to Master Signaller on 31 December. One of his early flights here on 22 May 1954 was transporting Anthony Eden (then Foreign Secretary) and Lord Ismay (then Secretary General of Nato) from Geneva to Paris and thence to Britain. A further flight in July almost led to disaster as the crew lost their way between Suffield, Alberta and Britain. An S.O.S. signal was sent out and after a tense period of waiting were picked up by a passing liner which was able to give them their co-ordinates, with their available fuel they were just able to make an emergency stop at the Azores Islands.That same year he performed trips to Australia which included the transport of material and personnel involved in the developing Nuclear programme. During one routine training mission the next year out of R.A.F. Abingdon the Hastings aircraft Browne was flying in crashed on landing. Fortunately the crew were all unharmed although the aircraft itself lost a wing. The next year he transferred to No. 47 Squadron flying mostly to the Middle East, Cyprus and Malta.Christmas Island Airways and Operation GrappleBrowne had alr…
A fine Second World War Coastal Command D.F.C., D-Day airborne operations A.F.C. group of nine awarded to Wing Commander C. J. Mackenzie, Royal Air Force, late Auxiliary Air ForceHaving been credited with the destruction of a U-Boat in the Western Approaches piloting a Hudson of No. 500 (County of Kent) Squadron in April 1942, he transferred to glider towing duties in Dakotas of No. 233 Squadron, in which he participated in Operations 'Tonga' & 'Market Garden'Distinguished Flying Cross, G.VI.R., the reverse officially dated '1942'; Air Force Cross, G.VI.R., the reverse officially dated '1944'; 1939-45 Star; Atlantic Star, clasp, France and Germany; Burma Star; Italy Star; War Medal 1939-45; General Service 1918-62, 1 clasp, S.E. Asia 1945-46 (Act. Sqn. Ldr. C. J. Mackenzie, R.A.F.); Coronation 1953, mounted as worn, together with embroidered R.A.F. uniform 'Wings', very fine or better (9)D.F.C. London Gazette 28 July 1942, the original recommendation states:'Flying Officer Mackenzie has been employed in an operational squadron since the outbreak of war and has completed over 400 hours operational flying in Anson, Blenheim, and Hudson aircraft, mainly on patrols to the enemy coast. He has at all times shown courage, determination, and devotion to duty of the highest order in carrying out any task allotted to him.On the 28 April 1942, he was captain and pilot of Hudson aircraft K/500 carrying out an A./S. patrol at 4,400 feet in the Western Approaches, when he sighted a U-boat on the surface eight miles away. He made full use of all available cloud cover and sun, and made a dive-bombing attack, pulling out at 60 to 70 feet and releasing four depth charges across the forward part of the still surfaced U-boat. The attack was almost certainly a successful one, the second charge exploding within 10 feet of the hull. The depth-charge attack was followed by a front and rear gun attack, the U-boat then disappearing from sight stern first, leaving a very large patch of frothy brown disturbed water behind.Flight Lieutenant Mackenzie exploited his sighting to the maximum and made a complete surprise attack. An award to this officer is recommended in the strongest terms, both for general good work since the outbreak of war and for this excellent attack on an enemy undersea raider.'A.F.C. London Gazette 1 September 1944, the original recommendation states:'Acting Squadron Leader Mackenzie has displayed exemplary zeal and devotion to duty as a flight commander. His untiring efforts, initiative and exceptional ability have been an inspiration to all with whom he has come into contact, and enabled the flight to reach the high standard of efficiency which led to the carrying out of its airborne operations on D-Day with unqualified success.'Charles John Mackenzie, born in India on 25 May 1915, was a pre-war member of the Auxiliary Air Force who was called up in August 1939 when he joined No. 500 (County of Kent) Squadron at R.A.F. Detling in the acting rank of Pilot Officer. Initially equipped with Ansons, the squadron converted to Blenheims in April 1941, and thence to Hudsons in November 1941.In March 1942, the squadron moved to R.A.F. Stornoway for patrols over the Atlantic and the approaches to the Clyde and the Irish Sea. On 28 April, whilst the captain and pilot of a Hudson, Mackenzie convincingly attacked an enemy U-boat in the Western Approaches, approximately 350 miles due west of the Outer Hebrides, an act of skill and gallantry which resulted in the award of his Distinguished Flying Cross.Operation 'Tonga'Advanced to Squadron Leader, Mackenzie next transferred to Transport Command and was posted to No. 233 Squadron at R.A.F. Blakehill Farm. And it was from here that he was charged with glider-towing operations for Operation 'Tonga' between 5-7 June 1944, delivering paratroopers and equipment for the 6th Airborne Division. According to the squadron's Operation Record Book (O.R.B.), it was 'given the envious choice of Drop Zone 'K' - the furthest inland.'Taking off at 23:14 hours on 5 June 1944, the squadron successfully dropped 407 paratroopers complete with kit bags and containers in an area north-west of Toufreville. The O.R.B. noted much light flak being encountered along the French coast and two Dakotas failed to return to base. Mackenzie's aircraft was among those damaged the following night, when he returned to Normandy for Operation 'Rob Roy One'. But the squadron's good work had not been in vain, for on the morning of 7 June it received the following message from Air Chief Marshal Sir Trafford Leigh Mallory:'Will you please convey my heartiest congratulations to 46 Group on their magnificent performance in carrying over the 6th Airborne Division in the initial operation. The fact that so successful and difficult an operation has been carried out with such complete success in so short a time after the formation of the squadrons reflects highest credit on all concerned.'For his services as a flight commander in the run-up to the Normandy Landings, and for his work on D-Day itself, Mackenzie was recommended for and received the A.F.C.Operation 'Market Garden'The squadron's next mission was Operation 'Market Garden', when in order to facilitate the Second Army's advance through Holland, the 1st Airborne Division was to be landed at several landing zones in the vicinity of Arnhem to secure bridges over the River Rhine. On 17 September, with Mackenzie piloting one of 22 squadron Dakotas, No. 233 successfully released gliders that contained 309 troops, 18 handcarts, 15 motor cycles, 10 Jeeps, 11 trailers, 5 wireless set, 11 cycles, and 1 6-pounder anti-tank gun, without any loss. On the second day they repeated this feat, with 17 aircraft from the squadron towing gliders containing 84 troops, 15 Jeeps, 7 trailers, 8 6-pounder anti-tank guns, and 3 machine-guns, but the re-supply missions were less fortunate, and the squadron lost 5 aircraft over the next three days, losses recalled by the posthumous award of the V.C. to David Lord, another Dakota pilot.The R.A.F. Memorial Flight's C-47 Dakota is currently painted up to represent a No. 233 Squadron aircraft, as flown by the likes of Charles Mackenzie over Arnhem.With the war in Europe over, Mackenzie remained in the Royal Air Force, going out to South-East Asia later in the year. He was promoted Wing Commander in July 1954 and, having settled in Eastbourne on his retirement, died in February 1970.Sold with his original 'Notice of Calling Out', dated 23 August 1939, together with his original commission warrant for the rank of Pilot Officer, dated 17 May 1940, and several photographs.For his corresponding dress miniatures please see lot: 447.…
Military General Service 1793-1814, 3 clasps, Vittoria, Orthes, Toulouse (W. Cook, 20th Foot.), traces of lacquer, very fine, mounted as wornProvenance:Glendining's, September 1987.William Cook was born at Totham, Essex circa 1785 and was a labourer also serving in the West Essex Militia upon his enlisting in the 20th (East Devonshire) Regiment of Foot (Lancashire Fusiliers) at Haslar under a bounty of £5-5-3; a vast sum in that period. At that time he was described as having dark eyes, dark hair and a 'brown' complexion, perhaps being of West Indian heritage whose parents had made it to England.Cook was wounded by gunshot at Orthes. A fine account is offered by Colonel John Hogge, K.H., who commanded the Light Company:'I embrace the first moment I had to spare since the battle of the 27th to let you know I have again escaped one of the most murderous battles that ever I believe the old 20th witnessed. I had three most wonderful escapes, three balls struck me, one entering the glass you bought me in London, when in the act of looking at the troops opposed to us, the ball still remains in but has entirely destroyed the glass. Another entered my jacket near the right breast, was turned by striking a button, passed along my waistcoat, came out and badly wounded a man of my company. A grape shot struck the top of my shoulder, carried away the bugle and most of my right wing but did no other injury except a slight bruise. You will say my dear brother I am a fortunate fellow, I think to myself, for I believe no man ever had narrower escapes, the jacket and spyglass I shall preserve and one day I hope to show you them. I shall now begin to relate what passed on that eventful day confining myself to that part of the tragedy our Brigade acted.The Light Companies of the 23rd, 7th, 20th, and a company of Rifles were in advance about 2 miles, when we came in contact with the advance post of the enemy, we immediately engaged them and drove them about a mile into a village where they had posted, unbeknown to us, a number of men in every part. We attacked it three times but did not succeed, soon after two companies of the 7th reinforced us and we quickly drove them out, took possession and retained it till the Brigade came up, we lost in this affair two Captains and about 60 men out of the light companies of the Brigade, eleven of my company were killed and wounded. It was here I had two escapes. We were then ordered to join our Regts. I found mine just in rear of the village.Soon after an order came to us to advance and support our Portuguese Brigade, as they had just given way about half a mile in front of us. The great bone of contention was a small town [St Böes] and a range of hills just in the van of it, upon which a strong column of French were posted with 6 pieces of Artillery. The main road ran directly through the town, and the heights and all the Artillery commanded it, we fixed bayonets and there the bloody scene commenced. I passed the Portuguese and actually carried the town under a most dreadful fire of grape shot and musquetry, that ever a regiment was exposed to, out of 291, all we had, 126 men and nine officers were killed and wounded. We had two other officers wounded but they were not returned so, being slightly hit. The enemy attempted again to take it from us, they got into the town but we managed to drive them out again. They carried away about 25 of our men and Captain Tovey, they surrounded them. The 7th Division soon came up and the French retreated in all directions. We followed till darkness put an end to the contest.Genl. Moss was wounded but not badly before we took the town. Major Bent who nobly commanded us had first his horse shot and was immediately afterwards killed himself. Three balls entered him. One Captain killed and three badly wounded. Capt Russell commands what few of us are left, he certainly gets the Brevet. Col Ellis, who commands the Brigade, rode into the town after we had taken it and declared that there never was a more gallant thing done by any Regt, and his Lordship sent in soon after to know what Regt it was that had taken the town. It is certain that they had in it double our numbers, posted so as to rake every part of the road leading through the town. Had we not succeeded we should have been cut to atoms, the only chance we had was to charge through it instantly, and after driving them out get under cover of the houses. It was impossible for our men to have stood it for five minutes longer, the grape from the Artillery on the hills cut us down by the dozens at a time. I got off most fortunately with the loss only of a strap. We mustered on parade next day only 144 men and nine officers. Soult may now say he annihilated us.’Cook was in fair shape to share in the action at Toulouse and was discharged on 31 January 1816. …
A rare The Putney VCS3 EMS Electronic Music Studios (London Ltd) Analogue Modular Synthesizer early 1970s, serial number 1003, no leads, manuals or accessories are present. . Please note, due the awkward size / shape and value of this item, we are unable to arrange postage. You are welcome to collect in person or arrange your own courier. This item has been well looked after and has its original cover, but is untested. this item is compatible with the EMS Synthi DK.1 also offered in this sale. Viewing is recommended. The EMS Synthi VCS3 Mk2 modular synthesizer, in original wooden case with two panels providing controls for: two voltage controlled oscillators (VCOs), a low frequency oscillator (LFO), voltage controlled low pass/band pass voltage controlled filter (VCF), trapezoid envelope generator, noise source, ring modulator, voltage controlled spring reverb, 16 x 16 patch board matrix and 18 resistive connecting pins, joystick providing X, Y modulation control, reverse with power connector, headphone output, oscilloscope output, stereo output, two voltage control outputs, keyboard connector, two line level inputs and two microphone level inputs, trigger input, accompanied by a EMS manual and plug, approx 17in wide x 20in high (43cm x 51cm) Footnotes Electronic Music Studios, Ltd, better known as EMS was formed in 1969 by Peter Zinovieff, Tristram Cary and David Cockerell, mainly as a way to fund Zinovieff's experimental music studio. The Cockerell-designed VCS3 'Putney' (after the location of the studio) was the first commercial product. It was an attempt, at a time when the current offerings from early synthesizer companies such as Moog and Buchla were large modular systems that covered walls, to provide a compact (considered portable at the time) version of an electronic studio, hence the name VCS (Voltage Controlled Studio). The VCS3 was also modular, but utilized an ingenious patch matrix that alleviated the need for patch cables to connect the separate modules. The synthesizer soon found its way on to the soundtracks of popular television programs like Doctor Who and onto a number of popular albums of the day. It was prominently featured on tracks by Pink Floyd (such as the Dark Side of the Moon's 'On the Run,') The Who (the 'Won't Get Fooled Again' intro includes Lowrey organ processed through a VCS3), Roxy Music where it was played by original member Brian Eno who also used it on his solo albums, Led Zeppelin (played by John Paul Jones on 'Four Sticks,') Hawkwind, King Crimson, Jean Michel Jarre, Tangerine Dream, etc. The VCS3 Mk2, known as the 'Synthi' remedied some of the issues of the earlier iteration especially regarding the oscillator instabilities and issues with the power supply and added envelope triggering on external audio through the input channel. It's uncertain how many VCS3s were built, but some estimates put the number at 800. Doubtlessly, many of those had been discarded with the change of fashion that came with widely available digital synthesis and MIDI in the 1980s. This is a rare opportunity to purchase one of the legendary British synthesizers from the golden age of synthesizers. Loss of some of the silvered caps.
Error Stamp, postmark missing Anniv B 17 Signed H R Harris USA WW1 Pilot Ace. Error B32 Cover with Missing Stamp, postmark Flight Cachet and Backstamp. Personally Signed by Harold R Harris US WW1 Fighter Pilot, Test Pilot first membership in the Caterpillar Club. Harold Ross Harris (December 20, 1895 - July 28, 1988) was a notable American test pilot and U. S. Army Air Force officer who held 26 flying records. Graduated in July 1917. After graduation he was sent to Europe for flight training where he helped set up the 8th Aviation Instruction Center for the Allied Expeditionary Force in Foggia, Italy. After 181 minutes of dual instruction time, he soloed, and shortly afterward was named Chief Instructor for both day and night training. He served at Foggia from March to July 1918. While there Harris flew Farman and Caproni bombers. On July 25, 1918, Harris along with co-pilot, George Lewis, led the first successful flight by American pilots over the Alps, crossing from Italy to France in four Caproni bombers. While based in Italy Harris also helped the United States Navy establish an aerial ferry route from Ilan to Paris. Successfully tested the world's first pressurized aircraft, Harris became one of the Army's most important experimental test pilots. On October 20, 1922 Harris made history as the first pilot to bail out of a stricken aircraft using a free-fall parachute. Harris was flying a Loening monoplane pulling the control stick from his hands. Facing a certain crash, Harris bailed out of the stricken aircraft, For his survival Harris was awarded the first membership in the Caterpillar Club, a club for aviators who have bailed out of stricken aircraft and survived. The name refers to the insect that produces the Silk used in parachutes. Good condition. All autographs come with a Certificate of Authenticity. We combine postage on multiple winning lots and can ship worldwide. UK postage from £5.99, EU from £7.99, Rest of World from £9.99
F1 50th Anniv 1st flight Spitfire Signed 10 Battle of Britain Pilot Crews WAAF, 5 Mar 86 BFPS 2110 50th Anniversary of the first flight of the Spitfire and 16 May 1995 Southampton R J Mitchell Centenary Postmark on 25p Definitive Stamp. Cover depicts First Spitfire on test flight over the Isle of Wight from Eastleigh. Blue Flown cachet Flown in Spitfire on the 50th Anniversary of the First Flight of this type of Aircraft from RAF Coningsby Pilot Sqn Ldr P Day. Personally Signed by 9 Battle of Britain Crew. G W Benn 219 Sqn Air Gunner Battle of Britain, Trevor Gray 64 Sqn Battle of Britain fighter pilot, Gp. Capt. Dennis David, Battle of Britain fighter pilot and with 89 Beaufighter Squadron Burma, A. L. Winskill 72 and 603 Sqn's, British Battle of Britain pilot, Sqn Ldr Neville Duke was a 92 Sqn Battle of Britain Spitfire Pilot. He joined Hawkers in 1948 and became Chief Test Pilot in 1951. On 7 Sep 1953 he set the World Speed Record of 727. 6 mph in Hunter 3 WB188, Alan W Gear 32 Hurricane Sqn, Battle of Britain fighter pilot, Sqn Ldr G Leggett 615, 245 and 46 Battle of Britain fighter pilot, Plt Off Peter Ayerst who achieved confirmed victories in the Battle of Britain and not eligible for the Battle of Britain Clasp, John Keatings Air Gunner with 219 Sqn Battle of Britain, Avis Hearn awarded MM for Bravery during Battle of Britain whilst under stuka attack on poling radar station Aug 1940. Good condition. All autographs come with a Certificate of Authenticity. We combine postage on multiple winning lots and can ship worldwide. UK postage from £5.99, EU from £7.99, Rest of World from £9.99
Various medals, including RoSPA National Safe Driving Award for 5 years, with 1973 clasp, Royal Antediluvian Order of the Buffalos, Justice Truth and Philanthropy medal, a 2006 fifty pence piece commemorating the Victoria Cross medal, and a Benham commemorative first day cover, commemorating The Atlantic Star medal, with a facsimile of the medal.
The London Mint Office, The Battle of Britain 75th Anniversary 1940-2015 Quarter Sovereign. The London Mint Office, The Battle of Britain 75th Anniversary 1940-2015 Proof Quarter Sovereign, struck in 22 carat gold, diameter 13.50mm, weight 1.99g, together with a numbered stamp first-day cover, the coin encapsulated, with certificate of authenticity, all mounted in a presentation cardboard pack.
Extensive World Stamps To Include GB In 7 Albums - 100 + Coins Including George VI 1951 5 Shill Coin, 50 U-Mint Sets 1989 to 1995, 1982 to 1988 + 2002 to 2008 First Day Covers In Albums, Plus Some Earlier Covers From 1969 In Album, Includes 2007 Beatles Cover, Some Later Presentation Packs To Include Trafalgar, Grand Prix + Harry Potter. Stamps Include Channel Islands In Pkts, Very Good Col'n Of Bird Stamps In The Albums and in Pkts, 'Main Value' In GB U/Mint 50+ Sets + Presentation Packs (4) + Later First Day Covers 2002 to 2008.
WW2 Paul Tibbets pilot of Enola Gay signed Bomber cover, Dropped First atomic bomb. First Day Cover. US Air Force. Good condition. All autographs come with a Certificate of Authenticity. We combine postage on multiple winning lots and can ship worldwide. UK postage from £5.99, EU from £7.99, Rest of World from £9.99
Rafael Eitan, Former Israeli General and Politician, signed 2.5 x 3.5 inch photo and signed First Day of issue 200th Anniversary of the Birth of American Independence cover stamped and postmarked dated July 4th 1976. Good condition. All autographs come with a Certificate of Authenticity. We combine postage on multiple winning lots and can ship worldwide. UK postage from £5.99, EU from £7.99, Rest of World from £9.99
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