First 500 Series Appraisal

12 O'Clock High '918th Bomb Group' Leper Colony Ceramic Mug (First 500 Series)

This item is a commemorative ceramic mug or vessel, likely a 'Toby' style or character mug, based on the '918th Bomb Group' from the 1949 film and subsequent television series '12 O'Clock High.' The base identifies it as part of the 'First 500' series, specifically hand-numbered 'No. 413' and dated '3/94.' The piece features heavy, raised relief lettering reading 'PROPERTY OF 918TH BOMB GROUP' integrated into the ceramic body. The exterior glaze is a creamy off-white or light beige, exhibiting some visible surface pitting and dark particulate matter embedded in or resting on the glaze, which may indicate production artifacts or deep-set grime. The rim bottom shows a raw ceramic foot ring indicative of traditional kiln-firing processes. Notable markings include a copyright for '1949 TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX FILM CORP.' and a 'MADE IN THE U.S.A.' stamp. While the copyright date refers to the original film's release, the handwritten date confirms a mid-1990s manufacture. The piece appears to be a high-quality licensed collectible intended for military aviation enthusiasts and fans of classic cinema, characterized by its thick-walled construction and specialized numbering.