WW II Rolls Royce Merlin Engine (As Used In RAF Spitfire) Piston Ashtray Signed By Winston Churchill

Description

This highly sought after collectable made from a Rolls Royce Merlin Engine Piston as used in the Battle Of Britain between August and October 1940.

These legendary engines were used to power numerous RAF aircraft during World War Two including the Spitfire, de Havilland and Lancaster Bomber to name but a few.

The top is engraved with"Never in the Field of Human Conflict was so much owed by so many to so few" and the signature of Winston Churchill.

The bottom is engraved with "Made from a Rolls Royce Merlin Piston Engine as used in the Battle Of Britain - August- October 1940."

The centre bears the Insignia and Motto of the Royal Air Force and the reverse is engraved Made In England.

Note: Market Price is Based on Actual Recent On-Line Sales (R 2268).

History note from Imperial War Museum

Four thousand of these ashtrays, made from pistons of Merlin engines as souvenirs of the Battle of Britain, and sold in aid of the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, were produced in 1946-7 on the initiative of Major S. Bulkyn Rackowe who gave a specimen to the Museum. Mr Winston Churchill authorized the use of the well-known quotation from his House of Commons speech of 20 August 1940, and of his facsimile signature.

The aluminium Ashtray is in excellent condition apart from a few minor scratches and minor indentations on the edges.

The item measures 13.5 cm in diameter and 2.5 cm in height.

Please view all my images carefully as they form part of the description.

If you have any queries please ask before bidding.

Postage and insurance for loss in transit will be extra.

Payment to be made within 72 hours of auction closing.

I am happy to combine postage where possible.

I reserve the right to close this auction at any time.