Whats a P38 Lightning Propeller Blade Worth???

**Falschirmjager** · 03-17-2012, 07:05 PM

Hi Guys,

Does anyone have any idea what a P38 Lightning WW2 fighter propeller blade might be worth. Ive been offered one from an aircraft which crashed in the south of the country in 1944-it was a photo recce version of the P38. The blade in question is complete but with slight bend in it due to impact and the base section cracked. I have no pictures at mo but the chap selling it is happy to part with it for £100 as its been stuck in his garage since he dug the thing up in the early 1980's. Just would like some idea as to a value as i dont have much idea with things like prop blades. Cheers, Tim.

**operaman** · 03-17-2012, 07:13 PM

The P38 was always my favorite fighter,I would imagine that the prop if in pretty go shape will be worth a tidy sum.Put it up on ebay with a high reserve and see what happens,I would start at 5,000.00 $ go from there.

**big ned** · 03-17-2012, 07:29 PM

It's well worth a ton. The prop blade will be a Curtiss Electric variable pitch type that is solid aluminium and around 5 1/2' long. They can be professionally cleaned and polished to a mirror finish rhat makes it look like a stunning piece of art. This may be costly, but the end result would be superb, and worth in the low thousands. That is the way I'd go!

Regards, Ned.

**operaman** · 03-17-2012, 07:42 PM

I thought it would be great hanging in a WWII pub or musem.What a find.Did hyou dig deeper might come up with more.

**mad_ideas** · 03-17-2012, 10:26 PM

Personally at that sort of price i would definaltly go for it!! if you dont please let me know as i would be interested

regards Mad.ideas

**Steve T** · 03-17-2012, 10:34 PM

Buy it and let me know if he's got another one please Tim

**AMTG** · 03-17-2012, 10:36 PM

I reckon 100 is a great deal....how often do you get offered one of these!!!!

I'd grab it!

**António Fragoeiro** · 03-17-2012, 10:38 PM

I would get for that price.
Cheers.
Nuno

**dogdog47** · 03-18-2012, 12:59 AM

I would pay a £200-£300 for a nice one more with proven provanance.
i have seen german ones for sale at 1k pluss but they never seem to sell at that.
Andy

**Thanatos** · 03-18-2012, 01:11 AM

A great investment at that price.
As Ned said with a bit of work it should come up well with a clean and de-oxidation.
Aluminium Pickling Gel should clean it up.Toxic stuff but works a treat.You can get it from a Welding product stockist.
If you purchase this item please post some pic's if you could.
Cheers mate.