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Corgi Aviation Archive 1:72 Dauntless SBD-3, LT. Richard H. Best, Model PR99405


Limited Edition
83 of 4760
Pieces Worldwide

Condition

This 1:72 diecast model of Douglas SBD Dauntless, flown by Lt. Cmdr. Richard Best of VB-6 honors one of the most pivotal moments—and pilots—of the Second World War. Born in Bayonne, New Jersey in 1910, Richard Best aspired to become a pilot from an early age, eventually graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1932. He earned his wings in 1934 and built years of flying experience, including as an instructor in Pensacola, Florida.

 

By 1942, Best was commander of Bombing Squadron Six (VB-6) aboard the USS Enterprise (CV-6). During the Battle of Midway—widely considered the turning point of the Pacific War—Best led his squadron in a decisive dive-bombing attack. Within just five critical minutes on June 4th, 1942, Best struck the Japanese aircraft carrier Akagi, helping turn the tide of the war.

 

This model comes prebuilt and includes display accessories and a stand, making it a must-have for collectors of historic naval aviation and key WWII battles.

 

Specifications

Length - 5.5"

Width - 7"

 

 

Condition

This model is in near mint condition but there is a very small mark on the topside left wing (just before the flap).

 

The box is in excellent condition with some crushing to the front.

 

Click the link below to see how we grade products :

Product Grading

Grading

Grading Criteria


Mint (10/10)  
 - As new, no visible flaws.


Near Mint (9/10)  
- Very light signs of handling or display only.


Excellent (8/10)  
- Light wear or a few tiny marks; displays very well.


Very Good (7/10)  
- Noticeable wear or small chips/rubs but still presentable.


Good (6/10)  
- Obvious overall wear; better as a display/filler piece.


Fair (5/10)  
- Heavy wear or larger areas of paint loss.


Spares/Repairs (4/10 or below)  
- Significant damage or missing parts.


For a full breakdown on how we grade models, please refer to our Conditional Grading page.

 

Returns

- Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery.

- Items must be returned in their original condition.

- Free UK customer returns.

- Non-UK customers are responsible for return postage unless the item is faulty or not as described. We photograph and describe all items accurately to help you buy with confidence.

- Refunds are issued after inspection of the returned item.

For more information on returns, please visit our Returns Policy page.


If you need to return an item, please email jay@thecollectablesvault.com or use the contact form under “About & Help” in the top menu.

Condition

This 1:72 diecast model of Douglas SBD Dauntless, flown by Lt. Cmdr. Richard Best of VB-6 honors one of the most pivotal moments—and pilots—of the Second World War. Born in Bayonne, New Jersey in 1910, Richard Best aspired to become a pilot from an early age, eventually graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1932. He earned his wings in 1934 and built years of flying experience, including as an instructor in Pensacola, Florida.

 

By 1942, Best was commander of Bombing Squadron Six (VB-6) aboard the USS Enterprise (CV-6). During the Battle of Midway—widely considered the turning point of the Pacific War—Best led his squadron in a decisive dive-bombing attack. Within just five critical minutes on June 4th, 1942, Best struck the Japanese aircraft carrier Akagi, helping turn the tide of the war.

 

This model comes prebuilt and includes display accessories and a stand, making it a must-have for collectors of historic naval aviation and key WWII battles.

 

Specifications

Length - 5.5"

Width - 7"

 

 

Condition

This model is in near mint condition but there is a very small mark on the topside left wing (just before the flap).

 

The box is in excellent condition with some crushing to the front.

 

Click the link below to see how we grade products :

Product Grading

Grading

Grading Criteria


Mint (10/10)  
 - As new, no visible flaws.


Near Mint (9/10)  
- Very light signs of handling or display only.


Excellent (8/10)  
- Light wear or a few tiny marks; displays very well.


Very Good (7/10)  
- Noticeable wear or small chips/rubs but still presentable.


Good (6/10)  
- Obvious overall wear; better as a display/filler piece.


Fair (5/10)  
- Heavy wear or larger areas of paint loss.


Spares/Repairs (4/10 or below)  
- Significant damage or missing parts.


For a full breakdown on how we grade models, please refer to our Conditional Grading page.

 

Returns

- Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery.

- Items must be returned in their original condition.

- Free UK customer returns.

- Non-UK customers are responsible for return postage unless the item is faulty or not as described. We photograph and describe all items accurately to help you buy with confidence.

- Refunds are issued after inspection of the returned item.

For more information on returns, please visit our Returns Policy page.


If you need to return an item, please email jay@thecollectablesvault.com or use the contact form under “About & Help” in the top menu.