OX5 Propeller with Signal Corps Number

[Albrecht]

This propeller has been in my family for over 50 years. It was given to my father in the 60s. You can see that it was definitely used; having been involved in some type of incident. It has a variety of markings on the hub. The size stamped on the prop is 8’0” X 5’3”. The SC number is 17461. It also has a marking that reads “SHOP 1448”. There are a couple of stamps with symbols - one of which has A 7 on it. I would love to know the name of the manufacturer and what it may have been used on (I’ve always assumed a JN-4, but have no way of knowing).

Thanks
Glenn Albrecht

[Dbahnson]

It's clearly stamped for an OX5 engine, and that may be the limit of how much you can positively identify. While JN4 is a likely choice, it's still only one of many aircraft that could have employed that model. The Signal Corps number doesn't help identify its usage. The smaller stamps (including the "A7") are almost certainly inspector's stamps.

[Albrecht]

Thank you.

[Dbahnson]

It's a nice display prop, even in its present condition and should be kept that way. I always advise people in your situation to keep it in the family since it's already been there for half a century.

[Albrecht]

Yes, that is exactly my intention. My father had it hanging in his wood shop classroom for 40 years. Now it will be at the entrance to my workshop. He actually had it mounted backwards because the rear of the prop has only cracks and is not missing any of the wood. It’s clear that the tip was glued back on at some point.