Data Plates Exposed #4: Bf 109E

[stephen f. polyak]

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!