THIS stunning medal collection of one of WWII’s top Spitfire aces is expected to fetch tens of thousands of pounds at auction.

The impressive haul belonged to Air Commodore James Rankin – a British RAF flying ace of the Second World War.

Rankin's impressive collection features a Distinguished Service Order as well as a Distinguished Flying Cross and Bar
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Rankin’s impressive collection features a Distinguished Service Order as well as a Distinguished Flying Cross and BarCredit: SWNS:South West News Service

Air Commodore James Rankin was hailed as one of the best a British RAF flying ace of the conflict
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Air Commodore James Rankin was hailed as one of the best a British RAF flying ace of the conflictCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
It includes a Distinguished Service Order as well as a Distinguished Flying Cross and Bar.

During the Second World War, Rankin, from Portobello, Edinburgh, destroyed 17 aircraft on his own and five shared with others.

The medals are expected to fetch at least £60,000 – £80,000 when they are put up for auction on December 6 at Sworders Fine Art Auctioneers in Essex.

“This group is worthy of joining the Imperial War Museum’s collection,” said Ivan Macquisten, former editor of Antiques Trade Gazette.

“I can’t think of anything as important in this area that has come up for sale since 2012, when the Battle of Britain fighter ace ‘Cat’s Eyes’ Cunningham’s triple DSO took nearly £400,000 at auction.”