A highly detailed 1:72 scale diecast representation of Supermarine Spitfire Mk I K9953, flown by celebrated South African fighter pilot Adolf “Sailor” Malan during the Battle of Britain. Released as part of the early Corgi Aviation Archive range, model 49001 depicts aircraft ZP-A of RAF No. 74 Squadron at RAF Hornchurch during July 1940.
No. 74 Squadron became one of Fighter Command's best-known Spitfire units. Under Malan's leadership, the squadron was heavily involved in operations over southern England and the English Channel during the opening stages of the Battle of Britain.
On 10th July 1940, Malan and other No. 74 Squadron pilots were scrambled to intercept German aircraft attacking a convoy in the English Channel. This engagement is commonly regarded as one of the opening actions of the officially recognised Battle of Britain period.
The model recreates K9953 in the dark earth and dark green camouflage carried by early-war RAF fighters. Prominent Type A roundels, the ZP-A squadron codes, black and white underside recognition markings and a three-bladed propeller capture the classic appearance of an operational Spitfire in 1940.
Designed by R.J. Mitchell, the Supermarine Spitfire first flew in 1936. Its elegant elliptical wing, Rolls-Royce Merlin engine and excellent handling qualities made it one of the Royal Air Force's most important fighters during the Second World War.
This early Aviation Archive release features substantial diecast construction, simulated fabric-textured control surfaces, a detailed cockpit beneath a clear canopy and a rotating propeller. It is supplied with removable landing gear and the original curved Corgi presentation stand.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Corgi
Series: Aviation Archive Collector Series
Model code: 49001
Aircraft: Supermarine Spitfire Mk I
Serial: K9953
Tactical Markings: ZP-A
Pilot: Flight Lieutenant Adolf “Sailor” Malan
Unit: Royal Air Force No. 74 Squadron
Campaign / Event: Battle of Britain
Theatre / Base: RAF Hornchurch, England
Date/Period: 10th July 1940
Operator / Country: Royal Air Force / United Kingdom
Scale: 1:72
Release Period: Circa 2000
Material: Heavyweight diecast metal with quality sub-components
Special Features: Authentic K9953 and ZP-A markings, Battle of Britain camouflage, early RAF roundels, black and white underside recognition scheme, detailed cockpit with clear canopy, rotating three-bladed propeller, removable landing gear and original presentation display stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 5" or 12.7 cm
Width (Wingspan): 6.25" or 15.9 cm