WWII San Michele Isle of Capri Silver Bell Worn by the USAAF (1944)

Description

These small, good luck charms were often seen secured to the A-2 leather flight jackets of the 12th and 15th Air Force men who passed through Capri, Italy. Legend has it that a sudden flash of light stopped a young shepherd boy in his tracks and Saint Michele appeared on a white horse alongside the boy’s sheep, who was wearing around its neck a small shining bell adorned with the image of a four-leaf clover. This particular example is constructed of 80% silver, as evident by the ".800" stamping on its canon, and is dated 1944.

Provenance

Private Collection, Dallas, Texas

Condition Report

This bell is in good condition, with an intact and functioning clapper. Its silver is tarnished, and it likely once had a chain attached to its top that has since broken away.