US Propeller INC. Help

[CZfan]

Hello,

I am new to propeller collecting and recently purchased a U.S Propeller Inc. wooden propeller as seen in the attached images. All seems original, but there seems to be a bit of a filed down area that is symmetrical on each side. Does anyone know the reason for this? Also, any other additional information would be helpful. Thanks so much.

[Dbahnson]

If you are referring to the area of trailing edge that starts just behind the decal I don't know if that's part of the design or someone's attempt to make the blades look symmetrical after one trailing edge was damaged. I'm guessing that it's probably part of the original design, however. It would be nice to find an example with the same design number for comparison.

I've attached the page from a 1983 DOT publication listing of propellers. At the top of the page you'll find "44K7797", which refers to the year (1944) of a military contract to produce the specific model. (The "AF" in the serial number could refer to Air Force)". Next to the listing you'll see reference to "76FGSA-60" which lists the dimensions, noting that it's a rare 4 bolt hole hub. If you look at the #3 footnote at the end of that listing there is an explanation below that describes it for use on the Interstate L-6 airplane with a Kinner engine.

U.S. Propellers is mostly associated with a large production of drone propellers that later appeared on the surplus market in large numbers, but the company did make some propellers for the military and for general aviation aircraft. The microlamination is somewhat unusual but is seen on several different props from several different manufacturers.

[CZfan]

Thank you Dbahnson. That is very useful information. In your opinion, what is the value for this propeller? Per our converation, someone might have altered or shaved a bit of the wings as seen in the image. It has the original fabric on the tips, all of the metal and no cracks or splits. I certainly plan on keeping it. Thanks again!

[Dbahnson]

I'd just guess that it would actually sell on eBay for something in the $800 to $1200 range, but that's just a guess. These "modern" style props aren't really my field of interest, plus the market is highly variable.