Thunder in the Heavens, World War 2 Historic Aircraft, With Five Ace Signatures

Description

"Thunder in the Heavens", a limited edition book c. 1995 honoring famous Second World War-era aircraft, and the men who flew them.  Print run of 1476 copies, this is copy #731.  Bound in leather, with original outer paper slip and box.  More importantly, this copy has been hand signed by FIVE period aviators, all of whom were Aces, Medal of Honor winners, or both.  Each signed on a page that displays the type of aircraft they flew, such as Col. Rex Barber on a page featuring a Lockheed P-38 (an "L" model depicting Jack Ilfrey's aircraft rather than Barber's own earlier model used in the Pacific). The other signatories are Ken Jernstedt of the AFG (P-40), Jim Swett, USMC (F4U), Bruce Porter, USMC (F6F) and  Ben Drew, USAAC (P-51D).  I can attest to the absolute authenticity of the signatures, as I was there to get them myself.  Unfortunately, all have passed beyond the veil now, however this remains to honor their memory.  Just something I feel the need to pass on to a new owner as I am trying to "thin out the herd".  The "spots" visible in one image of the edge are mild stains from the dye used to color the leather cover, and not mold, mildew or any other problem.  As issued, shown here as "used" just due to age and obviously it has been owned before (I am the original purchaser). Tough to price due to the unique nature of the item, so my asking price reflects my belief in the historical value of the object, rather than the book itself (which probably cost more than that to start with).  Make an Offer not added, however you are welcome to contact me to discuss the matter and make alternate suggestions. I am also offering a number of other related period aircraft collectibles and am happy to combine shipping.  Any questions, just let me know.  Please Note: any return necessary will be the responsibility of the buyer. I would prefer to ship this Insured Priority Mail, however regular Media Mail shipping is listed as the primary due to typical buyer cost consideration.
So what's the deal here with a coin dealer selling "whatever".  Well, like a lot of people, I have to move and am working through 30 years of "stuff" to lighten the load.  Given that this is not my main line of business, people may wonder a bit, however I have been selling on ebay since 1997, and my company has been in business since 1937 in one form or another.
Please Note: We require payment within four days of purchase, unless you contact us for other arrangements in advance of purchase. Items not paid for within 4 days will have an automatic unpaid item case opened - please do not make a purchase unless you intend to honor your commitment.  If you have any questions, please email.
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.  Buy or Bid with confidence: we have a heritage to 1937, and loads of good eBay Feedback, where I have been selling since 1997.
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