Captain Eric Brown's medals offered in extraordinary sale

A set of medals awarded to the late Captain Eric "Winkle" Brown, one of the world's most celebrated pilots, could make up to £200,000 ($247,780) at Bonhams on November 23.

Brown, who died this year aged 97, holds the world records for the number of different aircraft flown (487) and the most take-offs and landings on an aircraft carrier (2,407 and 2,271 respectively).


Captain Eric Brown still holds the record for the most types of aircraft flown

He also survived 11 plane crashes.

His extraordinary career led him to become the most decorated pilot in the Royal Navy.

The set includes an Order of the British Empire, a Distinguished Service Cross and an Air Force Cross. In all, seven medals are included in the sale.

The lot will also feature all of Brown's log books dating from his earliest years as a pilot up until around 2008.

John Millensted, Bonhams' head of medals and coins, told the BBC: "We are selling his entire archive, including his incredibly important medals.

"It is unrepeatable. We expect interest from individuals and also institutions. It would be nice if it went to a museum.

"It has been a very difficult decision for the family. It was felt that it was appropriate to sell now so that others might appreciate them for the future.

"They would love to see them displayed for future generations to appreciate and understand."

Featured products

Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Elvis Presley Authentic Strand of Hair
Sale price£399
In stock
Fidel Castro signed certificateFidel Castro Signed Certificate
Fidel Castro signed certificate
Sale price£2,995
In stock
King Henry VIII Autographed DocumentKing Henry VIII Autographed Document
King Henry VIII Autographed Document
Sale price£55,000
In stock