Triple Ace-Flown P-51D Mustang Old Crow

• Additional Details
• Ages: 8+
• Dimensions: 17" x 17" x 7"
• Made In: USA

This collectible Triple Ace-Flown P-51D Mustang Old Crow represents the ultimate in long-range fighter development in World War II, and is the aircraft that escorted bombers from bases in England to targets deep in Germany. This painted “Old Crow” as flown by Col. Bud Anderson and its present owner, Jim Hagedorn, is a 1/24-scale model P-51D Mustang. It makes a great pilot gift, or a present for any veteran, aviation enthusiast or history buff.

The Triple Ace-Flown P-51D Mustang Old Crow is an iconic American aircraft of World War II. It also served in combat in Korea, while actually starting out as a British aircraft. The P-51D was designed and flown in just 178 days in response to a British proposal for a fighter-bomber. British officials wanted North American Aviation to build the Curtiss P-40 Tomahawk under license, but NAA President James “Dutch” Kindelburger persuaded them that his company could build a new, better design in less time.

“Old Crow,” in silver, owes its polished appearance to Col. Bud Anderson, a top fighter pilot with the famed 357th Fighter Group. In 1944, Anderson was flying a mission when he saw a number of Mustangs below him. The dark green Mustangs – like the one he was flying – stood out clearly against the snow. The silver Mustangs were harder to see – a valuable thing to know in combat. Anderson suggested that “Old Crow” be refinished in silver the next time it was down for maintenance – and the next day, Anderson found a gleaming silver “Old Crow.” Anderson went on to shoot down 16 enemy aircraft in World War II, and went on to fly combat in Vietnam.