Lot 1025

Description

MacRobertson International Air Race, 1934, competitor's medal in gilt (34mm) (C.1934/5), by Stokes, ring top suspension with ribbon and pin-back suspender bar 'MacRobertson'. Extremely fine and rare.

This race, also known as the London to Melbourne Air Race was held in October 1934 as part of the Melbourne Centenary celebrations. Prize money was provided by Sir Macpherson Robertson on the condition that the race be named after his MacRobertson confectionary company and that it be organised to be as safe as possible. Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith, one of the favourites, failed to enter due to aircraft problems. The outright race winners were C.W.A.Scott and Tom Campbell Black of Britain, flying a DH.88 named Grosvenor House in an elapsed time of 71 hours, this was 19 hours and 13 minutes ahead of the winner on handicap.

With research.