Postage Stamp B-17G Liberty Belle Model Aircraft

This postage stamp model aircraft replicates Boeing’s B-17G Liberty Belle, a medium bomber and reconnaissance aircraft. Familiarly known as the Flying Fortress, a nickname coined by a Seattle reporter, the B-17G Liberty Belle featured thirteen 12.7mm machine guns and could carry 17,600 pounds of bombs. B-17G Liberty Belle was originally assigned to the 570th Bomber Squadron, 390th Bomber Group. Start a collection of World War II model aircraft or increase your fleet. Display on desk, shelf or credenza. Diecast metal with plastic parts. Display stand and history included. Scale 1:155. Ages 14 and up.  5.75"l. x 8"w. x 2.75"h.

Museum Provenance

A marvel of defensive firepower, the B-17 was one of the best known and most widely used heavy bombers of World War II. First flown in July 1935, the B-17 was modified and improved by the start of World War II. B-17Ds saw action in Hawaii and the Philippines; B-17Es and Fs, in Europe and Africa. By the end of 1943, B-17Gs were used by most units in the European theater. Manufactured by Boeing Aircraft of Seattle, Washington, women played a large role in producing these planes on the line as part of the “Rosie the Riveter” effort. Many World War II aircraft are on display at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum and its Stephen F. Udvar-Hazy Center.

Every Smithsonian purchase will arrive with a museum provenance card explaining how it is adapted from or inspired by an object or objects in our collection.