Authentic Aviation & Military History Autograph Memorabilia

Item Description

Offered is an authentic hand-signed "The Unlucky Eight" aviation print personally signed by Major James Elms Swett, United States Marine Corps fighter ace and Medal of Honor recipient.

This dramatic artwork was created by renowned aviation artist Stan Stokes and commemorates one of the most remarkable aerial combat actions of World War II. The print measures approximately 18" x 22" and has been hand signed by James Swett.

The print includes an Authentication Integrity Verified (AIV) hologram affixed directly to the artwork along with a matching Certificate of Authenticity.

Please review all photographs carefully as they are considered part of the item description.

Important Information

• Hand signed by James Swett
• "The Unlucky Eight" artwork by Stan Stokes
• Honors a Medal of Honor-winning combat action
• Signed by a World War II Marine Corps fighter ace
• Print measures approximately 18" x 22"
• AIV hologram affixed to the print
• Includes matching AIV Certificate of Authenticity
• Signature obtained during a private signing session
• Not a reproduction, facsimile, autopen, or printed signature

Authentication

This item includes an Authentication Integrity Verified (AIV) hologram affixed directly to the artwork along with a matching Certificate of Authenticity.

Founded in 2018, Authentication Integrity Verified (AIV) was created by longtime autograph industry professionals committed to raising standards in authentication, security, and collector confidence. AIV utilizes proprietary security holograms and QR-code verification technology, allowing collectors to quickly access authentication records through the AIV database.

For witnessed signings, an AIV representative is present during the signing process and the authentication record is entered into the database following the event.

Authentication and integrity remain the cornerstones of AIV's verification process.

About James Swett

Major James Elms Swett (1920–2009) was one of the most decorated Marine aviators of World War II and a recipient of the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by the United States.

On April 7, 1943, while flying a Grumman F4F Wildcat with Marine Fighting Squadron VMF-221 in the Solomon Islands campaign, Swett encountered a formation of Japanese aircraft attacking Allied shipping. Despite being outnumbered and facing overwhelming odds, he launched a fearless attack against the enemy formation.

During the engagement, Swett personally destroyed seven enemy aircraft and damaged an eighth in a single action. His Wildcat sustained extensive battle damage, yet he successfully returned to base after one of the most extraordinary fighter performances of the Pacific War.

For his heroism and extraordinary aerial achievement, Swett was awarded the Medal of Honor. He would later be credited with more than fifteen aerial victories during the war, earning recognition as one of the Marine Corps' leading fighter aces.

Today, James Swett autographs remain highly sought after by collectors of Medal of Honor recipients, Marine Corps aviation, fighter ace memorabilia, Pacific Theater history, and World War II military autographs.

About "The Unlucky Eight"

"The Unlucky Eight" commemorates the combat action that cemented James Swett's place in aviation history. The title references the group of Japanese aircraft that encountered the determined Marine pilot on that fateful day in April 1943.

The engagement remains one of the most celebrated aerial victories achieved by a Marine Corps fighter pilot during World War II and stands as a testament to courage, determination, and exceptional flying skill.

About the Grumman F4F Wildcat

The Grumman F4F Wildcat was the United States Navy and Marine Corps' primary carrier-based fighter during the early years of World War II. Although often facing more maneuverable Japanese aircraft, the Wildcat proved rugged, dependable, and highly effective in the hands of skilled pilots.

The aircraft played a crucial role in key battles throughout the Pacific and helped establish the foundation for eventual Allied air superiority.

Today, the Wildcat remains one of the most iconic naval fighters of World War II.

About the Artist – Stan Stokes

Stan Stokes is widely regarded as one of the premier aviation and military artists of the modern era. His artwork has appeared in museums, private collections, military installations, and historical publications throughout the world.

Known for his attention to historical detail and dramatic portrayal of aviation subjects, Stokes has created some of the most recognizable military aviation artwork ever produced. His paintings honoring fighter aces, military heroes, astronauts, and historic aircraft are highly collectible and continue to be sought after by aviation enthusiasts worldwide.

Shipping

• Ships within one business day of cleared payment
• Professionally packaged for safe delivery
• Tracking included on all orders
• Combined shipping available on most multiple-item purchases

About PS Collectibles

PS Collectibles specializes in authentic aviation, military, historical, space exploration, sports, and entertainment memorabilia.

Preserve History. Share Stories. Deliver Authenticity.

Be sure to visit our store for additional James Swett memorabilia, Medal of Honor collectibles, Marine Corps aviation history, F4F Wildcat memorabilia, Stan Stokes artwork, World War II fighter ace autographs, and historical autograph collectibles.

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