The coin that wasn't

[Figleaf]

The Indian and Sri Lanka commemoratives for the air force reminded me that we could celebrate another jubilee this year. On 27 May 1936, now 75 years ago, Aer Lingus started its first service, between Baldonnel Airfield in Dublin and Whitchurch airfield, near Bristol, using a six-seater De Havilland 84 Dragon (registration EI-ABI) biplane, named Iolar (Eagle).

The plane has been gloriously restored. It made its second maiden flight last week. I saw it getting ready as I arrived on Dublin airport. Wouldn't it have made a charming sight on an Irish commemorative coin?

Peter

[Ukrainii Pyat]

I read about some of those early DeHav airliners in an airplane mag sometime back.  They sure are fascinating little creatures.

[FosseWay]

As an aside, the Irish name inscribed on its nose, Iolar, means 'eagle'.

[akona20]

I remmeber watching the Dragons from the Royal Flying Doctor Service flying overhead when I was young in the 1950'S.