Scarce motor car mascot made in the form of the Supermarine S.5 seaplane which won the 1927 Schneider Trophy air race. Dating from around 1927.

This attractive, unsigned mascot is based on the British Supermarine S.5 seaplane. It is made from chrome plated brass and is fitted with a perspex disc giving the impression of a propeller in motion (possibly a later addition). Mascot is mounted on to a bakelite display base (which can be easily removed). Overall length (not including base) : 93mm. Wingspan : 92.5mm. Good condition (some wear to plating).

The Schneider Trophy series were without doubt the most famous and prestigious seaplane races ever held. They were started in 1913 by the French Industrialist, Jacques Schneider and were to continue until won three times in five years by the same flying club/country. They ended in 1931 when they were won outright for Royal Aero Club of Great Britain by Flight Lieutenant John Boothman flying the famous Supermarine S6B. The Supermarine seaplanes (S4, S5, S6 &  S6B) were specially designed by R. J. Mitchell to take part in the Schneider races and were the basis for the famous W.W.II. British fighter, the Supermarine Spitfire.

The 1927 Schneider Trophy race was held at Venice, Italy on the 26th September. This race included entrants from Great Britain, Italy and U.S.A.  The British team consisted of two Supermarine S5's, a Gloster IVB and a Bristol Crusader. The race was won for Great Britain by Flight Lieutenant S. N. Webster in the S5 (N 220) at an average speed of 281.54 mph.

For more information on The Schneider Trophy Races, please click on the link below : 

SCHNEIDER TROPHY