December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 73:
Description
This is a distinct and highly collectible piece of U.S. Naval memorabilia. The item is a vintage, cast-metal ashtray designed in the shape of a partial cross-section of a large aircraft carrier. The material is a heavy, light-colored metal, likely aluminum or pewter, common for commemorative items from the mid-20th century. The carrier s island superstructure and a detailed cross-section of the hull are clearly visible. Along the side of the hull is the name CORAL SEA, confirming the vessel is the USS Coral Sea CV-43, a Midway-class aircraft carrier of the United States Navy. The base of the ashtray is inscribed with the source of the vessel s construction, reading NEWPORT NEWS SHIPBUILDING & DRY DOCK CO. These ashtrays were typically produced as souvenirs or presentation pieces by the shipyard to commemorate the ship s launching or commissioning, likely dating this item from the 1950s or 1960s, making it a rare artifact for naval history collectors.
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