Limited to just 2000 units world
wide, this is certificate 0695,
A great chance to pickup a modern
classic and one only certain to become even harder to find as the years go
by.
Given its condition and rarity its
listed at a price I consider fair, but I will consider reasonable
offers. Bought and stored, all accessories included,
One of a number of Rare, limited
or interesting releases I'm putting up for sale over the next few days. I
will happily combine postage, answer questions or provide additional images
International offers welcomed, the E-Bay system used but I can and will quote
for other methods if it suits additional images International offers
welcomed, the E-Bay system used but I can and will quote for other methods if
it suits.
North American P-51B Mustang
Designed to meet an RAF requirement
for fighter-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft, the P-51 Mustang was first
flown on October 26th, 1940. This versatile aircraft was capable of escorting
bombers on long-range missions, engaging in dogfights, and dropping down to
destroy German targets on the ground. At least eight versions of the P-51 were
produced, but it was the definitive P-51D that gave the Mustang its classic
warbird appearance. Britain and the US both tested the airframe with the
Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, which gave the aircraft tremendous performance
gains. The Truman Senate War Investigating Committee called the Mustang
"the most aerodynamically perfect pursuit plane in existence."
The Mustang transformed the air war
over occupied Europe and allowed the systematic destruction of Luftwaffe
fighter units. The 'Yellow Nosed" Mustangs from Bottisham supported D-Day,
June 6th 1944 operations and were given the familiar black and white identification
markings to aid Allied spotters. "Ferocious Frankie" was the mount of
Wallace E Hopkins, who named the aircraft after his wife Frankie. He flew this
aircraft, before transferring to the later D and K models, ending the war
operating from forward airfields in France and Belgium. Hopkins combat career
ended with the title 'Ace', as 8 enemy fighters (and 1.5 damaged) fell victim
to his guns!
The P-51 Mustang has to be one of
the most beautiful aircraft ever produced. It was developed following a British
request for a new fighter in 1940, made to the newly formed North American
Aviation Company. Initial engine problems plagued the design, but the
combination of the Mustang and a Rolls Royce Merlin Engine proved a revelation.
The aircraft was transformed into the world's most potent fighting machine,
possessing speed, endurance and firepower. The USAAF now had the ability to
escort its bombers deep into Germany and the Mustang ensured the Allies gained
air superiority. It also accounted for more enemy aircraft 'kills' in Europe
than any other type, as overwhelming numbers systematically destroyed the
Luftwaffe's ability to fight!