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Rare 8 RPPC Lot Sinking USS Ex-Iowa Battleship Target Panama 1923 A.E. Wells Photo
Up for sale is a rare, consecutive 8-card Real Photo Postcard (RPPC) lot documenting the historic sinking of the battleship USS Ex-Iowa (BB-4) as a radio-controlled target ship in March 1923 off the coast of Panama.
Captured by photographer A.E. Wells, these photos document the chronological sequence of the exercise as the USS Mississippi (BB-41) opened fire with 14-inch guns, ultimately sinking the historic Spanish-American War battleship.
Sequential Breakdown (Marked 1–8 in Pencil):
1. "Before Being Fired On" – Clear side profile of the USS Ex-Iowa intact.
2. "U.S.S. Ex-Iowa" – Shell impacts and smoke plumes beginning.
3. "As Target For U.S.S. Mississippi - Sunk Off Panama 1923" – Heavy smoke trailing behind the vessel.
4. "U.S.S. Iowa" – Close-up of shell fire smoke billowing from the deck.
5. "Sunk By Gunfire - By U.S.S. Mississippi Off Panama - 1923" – Major damage and dense smoke cover.
6. "Sinking the U.S.S. Ex-Iowa by 14" Gun Fire" – Ship listing under heavy bombardment.
7. "U.S.S. Ex-Iowa" – Stern beginning to submerge with heavy smoke.
12. "U.S.S. Ex-Iowa Sinking" – Final moments as the bow slips beneath the water line.
Condition & Details:
Format: Original Real Photo Postcards (RPPC) — NOT modern reproductions.
Condition: Good vintage condition given age (100+ years). Cards show light corner wear, minor age toning, and light pencil sequence numbers in the right margin.
Backs: Unposted / Unused (see photos for complete individual details).
Shipping & Handling:
Cards will be carefully packaged for secure transit via USPS Ground Advantage with full tracking.
Please review all photos for exact condition and feel free to reach out with any questions prior to purchase!
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