This is an original and unpublished personal photograph from the late 1920s or early 1930s, featuring a US Army Air Corps Sikorsky S-39 amphibious aircraft on an airfield. Measuring 6.5cm x 11cm, this print captures the innovative design of the S-39, a single-engine successor to the larger Sikorsky S-38, which was used by the military for utility transport, reconnaissance, and training missions. The image showcases the aircraft's distinctive features, including its high wing, twin pontoons, and open cockpit, set against the backdrop of a period airfield with likely ground crew or personnel in view.
 
The Sikorsky S-39, introduced in 1930, was a compact and versatile amphibian that represented cutting-edge aviation technology during the interwar years. While primarily used in civilian and exploratory roles (notably by the US Army Air Corps for liaison and light transport), it embodied the era's shift toward practical, multi-role aircraft. This photograph may document testing, delivery, or routine operations, reflecting the Air Corps' expansion of its capabilities beyond traditional combat planes.
 
As an unpublished personal photograph, this piece remains untouched by commercial reproduction, preserving its authenticity and historical nuance. The condition shows period-appropriate aging, such as minor edge wear or tonal shifts, but the image remains clear and evocative. Ideal for collectors of military aviation history, Sikorsky aircraft enthusiasts, or vintage photography, this artifact offers a rare glimpse into the early days of amphibious aviation.
 
Key Details:
 
Subject: US Army Air Corps Sikorsky S-39 amphibious aircraft (c. 1930)
 
Provenance: Unpublished personal photograph
 
Size: 6.5cm x 11cm
 
Historical Context: The S-39 served as a utility aircraft for the Air Corps in the early 1930s
 
Condition: Aged but clear, with minor period wear
 
Significance: Highlights early amphibious aviation and Sikorsky’s engineering innovation
 
This photograph is not only a visual record but also a tribute to the pioneering spirit of interwar aviation, making it a compelling addition to any collection focused on military aircraft, Sikorsky heritage, or early 20th-century technology.