History Behind Corgi AA34908: Bf 109G-6 ‘Red 1’ – Maj. Hermann Graf

Hermann Graf and JG 50

In 1943, the Luftwaffe formed Jagdgeschwader 50 (JG 50) to intercept the RAF’s high-speed Mosquito reconnaissance aircraft and defend against incoming USAAF bomber formations. Command of this specialist high-altitude unit was given to Major Hermann Graf, the first pilot in history to surpass 200 aerial victories.

Flying the Messerschmitt Bf 109G-6 “Red 1”, Graf scored a series of further victories with JG 50, including the downing of USAAF B-17 bombers during the late stages of the air war over Europe. His aircraft carried the distinctive red nose and personal markings that make this scheme instantly recognisable to collectors.

A record-breaking ace

Graf’s wartime career was remarkable. Across more than 830 combat missions, he achieved 212 confirmed victories - 202 on the Eastern Front and 10 against Western Allied aircraft, including heavy bombers. His Bf 109G was fitted with high-altitude equipment and advanced features such as nitrous-oxide injection and under-wing rocket mortars designed to disrupt tight bomber formations.

The Bf 109G-6 “Red 1” in history

The Bf 109 itself was one of WWII’s most important fighters: rugged, adaptable and produced in huge numbers. Constant upgrades kept it competitive throughout the war, and variants like the Bf 109G-6 became the backbone of the Luftwaffe’s day-fighter force.

Corgi’s AA34908 Bf 109G-6 “Red 1” – Maj. Hermann Graf captures this famous aircraft and pilot pairing in diecast form, combining a striking colour scheme with a story that resonates strongly with WWII aviation collectors.