Spitfire and Bomber Squadron. Cut out model builder...
Australia: Ace Industries, circa 1941. Six sheets of stamp-cut perforated card, being many individual push out shapes printed in colour on both sides (to form planes, troops and so forth). Each sheet measures 255 x 420 mm., and all are housed within the original printed covers. Excellent condition, with all parts intact. An attractive relic of an Australian aviation amusement for children, printed during the Second World War. As the printed rear cover explains, 'all items are perforated and punched, and taking one sheet at a time, the various illustrations should be pressed out by releasing the holding pieces and cut-out lines. First assemble the airmen, parachutists, mechanics, soldiers, stretcher bearers, bren gun, anti-aircraft gun, and machine guns, using the stands made of heavy board.' The final result is an airfield in cardboard and 'when the set is completely assembled, many interesting hours will be spent in manoeuvring the various planes, lorries, soldiers, airmen, etc. into action positions'.
The present example is remarkable for being uncirculated, with all pieces exactly as the game was issued. It is an example of the extent to which the War entered mundane aspects of everyday life. The game is included in Marcie Muir's Australian Children's Books (7023). Copies in any condition are scarce, with only three held in Australian institutional collections. Item #3363
Price (AUD): $450.00