Cruver North American P-51 D Mustang Recognition Model

On offer is an original aircraft identification model, made by the Cruver Manufacturing Company of Chicago. These "recognition models" (also known as "ID" or "spotter" models) were developed after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour. They were seen as critical to the war effort and helped familiarise both aircrew and ground defence personnel to recognise the outlines of planes from all possible angles. Most of these models were simply finished in black to simulate a silhouette in the night sky. The concept was copied from similar models used to train RAF and civilians in aircraft recognition and so minimise 'friendly fire' incdents.

Cruver Manufacturing Co of Chicago began making novelty objects out of plastic in the early 1900s. In 1922 the Cruver was purchased by G. M. Proud and during WWII they made precision military electronics in addition to ID models. These spotter aircraft were made from Cellulose Acetate, an early form of plastic. In the passing years since WWII many have degraded badly and at best have become distorted and at worst simply 'melted' and fallen apart. This example however has avoided this fate and remains in pristine original condition. The model is embossed on the centre bottom of the wing 'U. S. A. P51-D' and on the flap a 'C' in a circle that was the Curver Company trade mark;in addition, it is dated 4-45. The model carries a hole in the cockpit canopy so it could be suspendered to show how it would look in simulated flight. The wingspan is 6" (15.5 cm) and the model length is 5" (13.5 cm). The detail of the model is picked out in silver paint and is a fine example that would sit happily in any collection.