Medals of Battle of Britain flying ace Bob Doe defeat expectations at Spink

The Distinguished Flying Cross set led the way at the sale of rare gallantry medals in London

Last Thursday, (November 25) Spink concluded its sale of Orders, Decorations, Campaign Medals and Militaria.

One of the lots which was always likely to get a great deal of attention was the medal set of ace pilot Bob Doe, who is credited as being the third most successful pilot overall at the crucial Battle of Britain, where the individual skills and bravery of a selection of pilots made all the difference.

He was one of the few to achieve recognition flying both Spitfires and Hurricanes, in which his eagerness to fight the enemy at close quarters was exceptional.

He was credited with 14 victories, two shared victories, and having damaged other enemy aircraft. Later in the war he led No. 10 Squadron, Royal Indian Air force from January 1944, and operated from both India and Burma.

The medal set offered included the DSO and DFC, plus seven other medals including the 1939-1945 Star with Battle of Britain Bar. It also includes four Flying Log Books and a Caterpillar Club gold brooch badge. In total the lot was expected to sell for around £130,000-160,000 (up to $256,000).

In the event, bidders thought it was worth even more, and the final price soared up to £185,000 ($288,300). High-end medal collectors and investors may be interested to know that the first Victoria Cross awarded to a member of the army is currently available.

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www.paulfrasercollectibles.com

Images: Spink