Lot 680

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Description:

Incredibly rare World War II-era folding bicycle made by BSA designed for airborne use and issued to British paratroopers for the D-Day landings and other operations. This is the second model with single seat tube. The frame appears original, with head tube marked with a British broad arrow and largely illegible ink stamp above it. Serial numbers within it are worn away and now impossible to distinguish, yet original letters 'PAT' and 'DGN' on the left side are visible when exposed to strong light, suggesting it is genuine. The rear dropout of the frame is stamped with serial number 'R35903'. Rear seat tube has lightly faded BSA insignia, and the metal bracket for the removable headlamp (not present) also bears the stamped initials 'B.S.A.' and the impressed insignia. The leather seat - while similar in size and shape to the original - is likely a replacement, and the bike's sprocket and wheels are certainly post-war replacements. The pedals, handbrake, and braking mechanism are also absent. Folds and unfolds flawlessly as it was designed to do, though functionality untested. Lightly worn from age and use, yet still in very good condition and displays well. Sold as is due to the above replacements, and estimated accordingly. These bicycles were carried by British paratroopers, as well as on commando raids on D-Day at Normandy and in other invasions. There is ample historical evidence that they were carried on jumps into combat zones and put to use in combat conditions.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, COD (cash on delivery), Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipments are sent via FedEx and DHL (for most overseas shipments) or FedEx Ground at the auctioneer's option. Due to complications from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we will ship with USPS Priority Mail only if the buyer submits their request to us in writing and accepts responsibility for delayed shipments. Signature is always required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling and shipping charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. International shipments are invoiced by DIMENSIONAL weight, not the item weight. Please contact us for an estimate before bidding NOTE: Large, heavy or bulky items may not be shipped by the auctioneer - arrangements for shipping of these items via a third-party shipper may be arranged through the auction house. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee. Please allow 2-3 weeks for shipments after receipt of payment due to the high volume of packages being shipped.

May 22, 2021 10:00 AM EDT
Chesapeake City, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000