Replica of Distinguished Flying Cross winner's Spitfire sells ahead of auction

A replica Supermarine Spitfire owned by The Royal British Legion has been sold by Bonhams for an above-estimate sum, ahead of auction.

The replica plane was due to be auctioned at the Goodwood Revival sale on September 17 and had attracted a pre-sale estimate of £50,000-60,000.

Its new owner, Michael Oliver, chairman of Europe's largest privately-owned valve manufacturer, intends to house the Spitfire with his collection of cars in Cheshire.

Before he takes possession, he has agreed that the full-sized aluminium replica of a MKVb Supermarine Spitfire can be used by the RAF at the Battle of Britain commemorations at York Minster on September 19.

The replica represents aircraft number W3850, which was flown by Pilot Officer Joe Atkinson, later Flight Lieutenant Sir Joe Atkinson KCB CB DFC, over France on 13 October 1941 in an attempt to protect Blenheim bombers attacking port installations.

Pilot Officer Atkinson, in formation with other aircraft from 609 Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air force (West Riding of Yorkshire), engaged and damaged a number of German Messerschmitt 109s during this flight. He was later awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.


The  aircraft number W3850, representing aircraft number W3850

Michael Oliver said, "I'm absolutely thrilled to have this iconic Spitfire as part of my collection and am very pleased that The Royal British Legion is benefiting. It seems very fitting for it to be used at Battle of Britain commemorations."

Stephen Cooper, Commercial Director of The Royal British Legion said, "This is a fantastic outcome. The offer was very generous and the buyer is being most kind in making the airframe available for worthy causes."

Meanwhile Stuart Gendall, the Legion's Director of Corporate Communications, added: "We are delighted the Spitfire is going to such a good home, and the proceeds will help fund our vital work in caring for and supporting Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their families."

Built in 2008 by members of the Ripon Branch of the Legion in order to publicise their work, the Spitfire took 10 months and 11,000 man hours to construct and was built using original Supermarine blueprints and original Spitfire parts.

Since its construction, the Spitfire has been used at a variety of Legion branch and regional events, and at RAF Leeming events, including the base's 70th anniversary celebrations. It is currently housed at RAF Linton-on-Ouse in Yorkshire.

 

Join our readers in 193 countries around the world - sign up for your free weekly Collectibles Newsletter today

Featured products

Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Sale price£399
In stock
Fidel Castro signed certificateFidel Castro Signed Certificate
Fidel Castro signed certificate
Sale price£2,995
In stock
King Henry VIII Autographed DocumentKing Henry VIII Autographed Document
King Henry VIII Autographed Document
Sale price£55,000
In stock