Lot 1184

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Description:

INDICATOR PANEL FROM GUY GIBSON'S OFFICE AT SCAMPTON
A wood-housed electrical indicator panel mounted above the office of famed Wing Commander Guy Gibson at RAF Scampton base during World War II. Gibson (1918-1944) was a distinguished ace who led the 617th Squadron in the 'Dam Buster's' raid on May 16-17, 1943, among other important missions. Following the development of the Upkeep bouncing bomb the 617th was formed at Scampton in order to carry out the proposed dam raid, codenamed Operation Chastise. On the night of May 16, Gibson led nineteen Lancasters from Scampton. The bulk of the squadron attacked the Sorpe, Eder and Möhne dams, while others attacked the Schwelm Dam. Both the Eder and Möhne dams were breached, however eight of the Lancasters failed to return and fifty-three aircrew were lost. Gibson was awarded the Victoria Cross, and was killed in action on year later. This sign comprises a dark wood box with a glass front holding an interior metal face with holes for metal flags to indicate who was within: 'Squadron C.O.' or 'Adjt'. Measures 8 1/2 x 7 1/2 x 3 in., with a mint-green face and black enamel lettering. At right is the mechanism to open the lid. Produced by: 'J. & S. Farr, Ltd., Nottingham, Phone. 41058'. Remains of a gilt monogram 'SVA' at bottom of frame. A undated typed letter on Scampton letterhead is affixed to verso and reads, in part: '...W/C Guy Gibson Sign from the Office of Guy Gibson, at RAF Scampton...Wing Commander Gibson was the C.O. of 617 Squadron and led the raid on the Ruhr Dams in Germany with the bouncing bombs. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his leadership and devotion to duty...'. Not electrified and while we cannot claim that it is operational, it is undoubtedly an easy fix for an experienced restorer. A wonderful relic from a legendary ace!

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June 15, 2023 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 $999,999 $10,000
$1,000,000 $1,999,999 $50,000
$2,000,000 + $100,000