F2501

Eddie Rickenbacker

WWI Flying Ace - Medal of Honor

Collins Cover Announcement 

EDDIE RICKENBACKER

Legendary World War I Air Ace and National Hero

Sixty-Cent Air Mail Stamp

Edward Vernon Rickenbacker was the most celebrated U.S. Air ace in World War I winning victories over 22 enemy planes. He entered the Army in 1917 and was assigned as a driver for Col. William "Billy" Mitchell in France. With Mitchell's help, Rickenbacker was assigned to flight training and began duty with the 94th Aero Pursuit Squadron.

He was a disciplined and methodical flyer, but his courage and ability made him legendary. His achievements during the war led to his becoming Commander of the 94th and receiving the Medal of Honor.

The hand-painted cachet is a beauty. It shows Eddie in a World War I dogfight shooting down a German aircraft. I was able to locate a great reference as to the markings and color scheme of Rickenbacker's plane, so I'm very pleased with the historical accuracy.

Airmail stamps are always highly collectible and this sixtycent issue honoring a United States military hero will be an excellent item to own. It is postmarked on Day of Issue at Columbus, Ohio where Eddie was born in 1890. Join Eddie Rickenbacker in the "Wild Blue Yonder" as he battles in the clouds above Europe. Item #F2501. $12.00.

Winter 2023 Mail Sale 

Lot 13 F2501 — Eddie Rickenbacker — 9-30-95

I believe that the last time this cover appeared in my mail sales was two decades ago in 2003. Can't resist. How time "flies." Eddie was a fighter pilot in World War I and received the Medal of Honor. With 26 enemy aircraft shot down, he was the most successful and most decorated United States flying ace of the First World War. The hand painted cachet depicts an aerial dogfight above the clouds with a hit enemy plane heading down. The stamp is tied to the envelope with a small bullseye from Columbus, Ohio. This cover realized $67 in 2003, and since then my covers have increased in value. A great military and early aviation cover.