In a captivating fusion of cinematic history, RM Sotheby’s is gearing up to auction the iconic 1929 De Havilland Gipsy Moth biplane that graced the silver screen in the Academy Award-winning film “Out of Africa.” Scheduled for March 1 and 2 at the ModaMiami event in South Florida, this rare aircraft, famously piloted by Robert Redford’s character Denys, is expected to draw aviation enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Beyond its Hollywood allure, the DH60M remains in working order, boasting a unique steel construction designed for durability in warmer climates. Transported to Kenya in 1985 for the film, the biplane played a pivotal role in the production, contributing to a memorable four-minute-long scene and the movie’s tragic ending. Renowned RAF Wing Commander Henry Dalrymple-White flew the aircraft, showcasing its airworthiness when inspected in April 2022.
What sets this auction apart is its noble cause. All proceeds from the sale will be donated to the ZEITZ Foundation for Intercultural Ecosphere Safety, supporting the creation of a rhino sanctuary in Kenya. The black rhino, critically endangered with only around 5,000 remaining in Africa, will benefit from this initiative.
Renowned actor and pilot Robert Redford expressed his endorsement for the project, emphasizing its positive impact on biodiversity and wilderness conservation. In a statement, Redford noted, “I couldn’t think of a better way to raise funds for this ground-breaking project than through the auction of one of the most iconic airplanes in history.”
The Gipsy Moth is expected to fetch between $140,000 and $220,000 at auction, according to RM Sotheby’s. However, historical precedent suggests that it could exceed expectations. In 2013, the same aircraft sold for nearly double its pre-sale estimate, setting a record as the highest amount ever paid for a Gipsy Moth.
Aviation enthusiasts, philanthropists, and those with a keen eye for cinematic memorabilia will find this auction not only an opportunity to own a piece of film history but also a chance to contribute to the preservation of endangered species and vital ecosystems. As the Gipsy Moth takes flight into new ownership, its legacy extends beyond the screen, leaving an indelible mark on both cinematic and conservation history.
