Guernsey, 2008 Five Pounds RAF "SCHNEIDER TROPHY VICTORY 1931" Silver Proof.
The Schneider Trophy was announced in 1911, Jacques Schneider, a French businessman and aero enthusiast, was the sponsor. The first race, held in 1913 was won by a French-built Deperdussin at a speed of 45.75 mph (73 km/h. In 1914 the British won with Sopwith Tabloid setting the record at 86.6 mph (139 km/h). After the First World War, Schneider trophy developed into a contest between nations. In Venice in 1927 the British entry had strong government backing and the Reginald Mitchell designed Super-marine S.5 won at a speed of 281.66 mph (453 km/h). In 1929 the Super-marine S.6 with a new Rolls Royee engine won at Calshot Split, averaging 328.63 mph (526 km/h. The rules meant that any club winning three times in succession would keep the trophy and in 1931 Britain won again. A fortnight later, the Pilot, Flight Lieutenant J.N. Boothman, flew the S.6B to a new world record of 407.5 mph (656 km/h), breaking the 400 mph barrier for the first time.
COIN SPECIFICATION
Issuing Country: Bailiwick of Guernsey
Denomination: 5 Pounds
Alloy: 925 Sterling silver
Weight: 28.28g
Diameter: 38.61 mm
Limited Edition: 25,000