Commemorative USS Essex (CV-9) Deck Planking Presentation Piece

This is a historic naval commemorative item featuring an original section of teak deck planking from the USS Essex (CV-9). The piece is displayed in a tiered wooden mount of medium-toned oak or similar hardwood, supported by a contemporary pedestal base. The central feature is a large section of weathered wood, likely Douglas Fir or Teak, protected on the top surface by a clear acrylic or Plexiglas cover secured with four small metal rivets. On the front face, it displays an engraved brass plaque from the Department of the Navy Naval Historical Center, Washington Navy Yard. The plaque features the official seal of the Department of Defense and is dedicated to Armin 'Pete' Losh of the Torpedo Bombing Squadron Nine. The text notes the ship's commission date of 12-31-1942 and decommissioning of 6-15-1975, identifying the recipient as a 'Plank Owner'. The condition appears excellent with natural weathering on the deck wood and a slight patina on the brass. The construction is solid, designed for desktop display, showcasing mid-to-late 20th-century commemorative craftsmanship. The wood grain on the display stand is visible and well-finished, contrasting with the rough, authentic texture of the flight deck fragment.

This appraisal covers a presentation piece featuring authentic deck planking from the USS Essex (CV-9). Upon visual examination, the item appears to be an official Naval Historical Center (NHC) commemorative, distinguished from later private-sector reproductions by the specific typography on the brass plaque and the tiered oak pedestal mounting. The condition is excellent; the Douglas Fir or Teak specimen retains its historical texture while protected by an acrylic cover, and the plaque shows an appropriate light patina for a late 20th-century piece. Market demand for Essex-class memorabilia remains strong, particularly pieces associated with VT-9 (Torpedo Squadron Nine), a unit with a significant combat record. The 'Plank Owner' designation for Armin 'Pete' Losh adds a layer of 'personalized provenance' that appeals to collectors of WWII naval history. Comparables for NHC-issued deck sections typically range from $350 for generic ships to over $800 for named pieces from legendary vessels like the Enterprise or Missouri. This item identifies a specific veteran, which increases its value. However, full authentication cannot be achieved through imagery alone. A physical inspection is required to verify the age and species of the timber through microscopic analysis and to confirm the plaque's composition. To achieve a definitive valuation, I would require service records for Mr. Losh or a deed of gift from the NHC. The estimate reflects current auction trends for authenticated US Navy de-accessioned artifacts.