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NOTE: I have recently acquired a literal treasure trove of WW1 and WW2 military items and will be listing them in the coming months. All of the items were destined for the landfill, until my sister in law rescued them! Stay tuned…
ATTENTION POSTCARD COLLECTORS!
It came to my attention that there are “Scrape bots” collecting rare RPPC images. In order thwart them, I am placing a piece of paper with my store name, “The Vintage Argonaut” over a corner with the least detail. I researched this extensively and this is the best current way. The old watermarks are obsolete- AI tools can easily erase and flawlessly fill what is behind the watermark!
Rare 1916 Mexican Punitive Expedition RPPC – 1st Aero Squadron Aviators and Signal Tower.
Up for sale is a highly historic, original Real Photo Postcard (RPPC) from the 1916 Mexican Punitive Expedition (Pancho Villa Campaign). This exceptional piece documents the absolute dawn of United States tactical military aviation.
Historical Significance and Identified Personnel:
The back of the postcard features vintage, handwritten identification pointing directly to pioneering early military aviators and support staff associated with the historic 1st Aero Squadron: Lt. John B. Brooks: Prominent early American military aviator who flew reconnaissance missions over Chihuahua, Mexico.
Also identified by name on the reverse are Redman, Bryant, and Hallett, likely crucial members of the squadron's flight or ground/mechanic crew.
Front: Features a crystal-clear group photo of four expedition members in period work attire (overalls, campaign hats, and utility jackets) posing in front of field infrastructure. The wooden structure behind them is consistent with an early military aviation signal tower or canvas hangar support frame used at a border base camp (such as Columbus, New Mexico).
Back: Features a classic period Velox Stamp Box (4 diamonds), a divided back postcard layout, and the clear handwritten crew names.
Condition Notes: This is an authentic, original period silver gelatin photographic print on postcard stock.
Please inspect the high-resolution scans carefully for exact condition details regarding edges, corners, and surface wear. The card shows beautiful historical patina with no major creases or structural damage that compromises the image.
Shipping Protection: Shipped in archival sleeve and rigid cardboard top-loader.
If you require further pictures or have any questions please ask. Will be well packed before being sent.
If you have any questions, please ask! Visit my store for more vintage ski patches, ski pins, ski tickets, ski brochures, t-shirts and various treasures.
