At Dugglebys, we understand the deep personal and historical significance behind items of militaria. Each piece tells a story, a fragment of history preserved through time. In one of our recent Militaria, Medals, Weapons & Sporting Guns sale, on Thursday 30th January 2025, at David Duggleby, we were privileged to present items with extraordinary historical narratives, each resonating with the past and carrying the weight of those who lived it.

In this article, we'll be sharing the story of Leslie Scott, a member of the Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force (SAARF), and the incredible prices these historic lots have achieved.

 

WWII Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force (SAARF)

Parachute Jump Wings

Above, Left to Right: Lot 3188 and Lot 3189.

 

These two lots belonged to Leslie Scot...

Jess Tarver, our valuer, said "Captain Scott's relatives were unaware of the treasure they had discovered when they came across the wings whilst clearing his London flat after his death at the age of 89 in 2008 and they have actually spent the last sixteen years in the attic of a house in a village near York."

He told his relatives he was "just a cook" during the war. But Leslie Scott was never a cook. He was an officer, handpicked for one of the most secretive units of the war, the Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force (SAARF), a group that assembled some of the toughest men in the British Army to take on one of the most perilous missions in the final days of the conflict.

His story has been featured in numerous prominent outlets, highlighting his incredible experiences and the secretive nature of his wartime mission. These publications have shed light on his role in one of the most daring operations of the war, bringing his remarkable journey to a wider audience.

As featured in: BBC NewsThe Yorkshire PostThe MirrorThe Scarborough News, The York Press, The Daily Mail, The Daily Star, The Daily Express, The Scunthorpe Telegraph & The Hull Daily Mail.

We’ve written about the Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force (SAARF), click here to learn more about this special unit.

 

Lot Number: 3185

WWII Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force (SAARF) Parachute Jump Wing, an extremely rare example of the embroidered jump wing, H10cm.

Sold for: £1.500. View this lot here.

 

Lot Number: 3189

WWII Special Allied Airborne Reconnaissance Force (SAARF) Parachute Jump Wing, an extremely rare example of the embroidered jump wing, belonging to Leslie Scott. Accompanied by his WWII medals, including the 1939-45 War Medal, Defence Medal, 1939-45 Star, and African Star. Also includes a Soldier's Service book and discharge papers, stating the cause of discharge as "for the purpose of being appointed to an emergency commission para 390 (XVII) K.R. 1940," along with photographs and other ephemera.

Sold for: £2,100. View this lot here.

 

This was a fantastic sale, shining a light on the incredible story of Leslie Scott and the wartime unit he served in. The strong interest and impressive prices achieved reflect the enduring fascination with militaria history and the brave individuals behind these artifacts.

 

Selling Militaria With Dugglebys

If you have items of historic interest, we’re here not just to help you find new homes for your treasures, but to honour and celebrate the stories they hold. Whether it’s a medal with a tale of bravery, a uniform that stood witness to pivotal moments, or documents revealing untold chapters of history, we take pride in sharing these legacies with passionate collectors and enthusiasts who will treasure them anew. Contact us today for a free valuation. 

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