A Japanese kamikaze pilot's headband has auctioned for $8,125.
The item was among the many sobering pieces of memorabilia for sale at Bonhams' World War II 70th Anniversary Sale in New York on April 29.
 Nearly 4,000 kamikaze pilots sacrificed their lives during the war |
The headband, or hachimaki, was worn by one of three kamikaze pilots who attacked the USS Franklin on October 30, 1944.
The attack killed 56 sailors, and required the Franklin to return to the US for repairs.
Gunner Robert Ralph Huebner salvaged the headband from the wreckage on the same day as the attacks - even wearing it while on duty.
They were designed to resemble the scarfs traditionally worn by samurai.
Close to 4,000 kamikaze pilots died in combat during the war, with around 20% inflicting damage on ships.
The auction also featured a rare original example of the "Keep calm and carry on" poster, which Britain's Ministry of Information produced during the early months of the war.
The $18,750 sale price was no doubt bolstered by the phrase's ubiquity on merchandise in recent years.
As we approach 70 years since the end of the war, the sale is testament to the growing demand for the finest pieces of memorabilia from the conflict.
Here at Paul Fraser Collectibles, we anticipate interest in second world war memorabilia will rise still further as we near the centenary of the conflict over the coming decades.
We have a fine range of militaria for sale in our online store.
Please sign up to our free newsletter to receive exciting news about medals and militaria auctions.
Your collecting
View our stock items for sale | Portfolios for sale
Guides and analysis
Investing in Militaria | 10 reasons to invest in collectibles | Which asset is right for you?
www.paulfrasercollectibles.com
Images: Bonhams
