Data Plates Exposed #4: Bf 109E
 

Next up in the series is a main data plate from the classic Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter. It comes from an E-series aircraft built by Erla, Werk-Nr. 988, in 1939; this 109 was officially accepted on April 27, 1939.

The plate was first stamped for a 'E3' model, but the plane was apparently modified to 'E4' standard. A close examination shows the original '3' over-stamped with a '4'. A bit of "human error" can also be seen -- instead of a proper 'BF 109' as the MUSTER entry, 'EF 109' is found! Traces of colors 02 RLM grau, 65 hellgrau, and 70 schwarzgrun remain on the plate's front border and rear surfaces.

The plate was reportedly removed from a (crash) site "near Dover" during the BOB period; possible use by JG 3 was also indicated. As of yet no confirmation of this aircraft's history has been made, however.

As always, further information would be appreciated. It would be great to learn more about this one!

Re: Data Plates Exposed-THANKS!
 

Dear Stephan,

I just wanted to thank you for posting your data plates. I have already learned a lot from each of them and look forward to more. New data is always welcome.

Steve Sheflin

Re: Data Plates Exposed #4: Bf 109E
 

Hi

The Werknumber 988 comes at the 12.10.1939 to the Amme-Luther-Seck Werk in Wiener-Neustadt for repair with 16% damage. Then used in the I./JG 76 und comes with damage to the Fieseler Werk in Kassel at the 30.04.1940 a Me Bf 109 E-3. Flugkapitän Anton Riediger fly the Werknummer 988 at the 04.09.1940 (Abnahmeflug) in Kassel. I have no loss from this Werknummer.

Greetings Christian

Re: Data Plates Exposed #4: Bf 109E
 

Hello,
What are the size of these plates in milimetres?
Thank you

Fran

Re: Data Plates Exposed #4: Bf 109E
 

Christian,

Thank you so much for the information you provided on Bf 109 Werk-Nr 988! The power of TOCH lies in communication and exchange. Your reply is, I believe, a perfect example. Well done!

Fran,

The plate measures 127mm by 38mm. It is representative of the largest type of main ID plate used on the Bf/Me 109. There were various other smaller sizes; I will show some examples in the future.

Main ID plates on the 109 were generally attached (with four corner rivets) outside the fuselage, on the port (left) side, just forward of the cockpit. These plates can often be seen in photographs -- they were typically not over-painted.

Steve

Re: Data Plates Exposed #4: Bf 109E
 

Hello Stephen,
I have seen these for Erla and Fieseler but where could I find scans or photos of data plates for Bf109 manufacturers AGO, Mtt and Wiener?
There was any else?

Thank you