This relic is an authentic fragment from a Pratt & Whitney TF-30 turbofan jet engine, which powered the early F-14A models of the iconic Tomcat. Known for its high-heat tolerance, this particular fragment is made from a nickel-alloy and comes from the afterburner's fairing shield, a critical component designed to withstand the extreme temperatures generated during supersonic flight and afterburner use. The TF-30 engine was an integral part of the F-14A’s initial design, providing the thrust needed for the Tomcat's impressive speed and maneuverability. However, it had its shortcomings, most notably its susceptibility to compressor stalls during high-acceleration maneuvers, which sometimes hindered the aircraft's performance in combat.

*Note for International Customers: Unfortunately, any relics from this aircraft (even in fragment form) are not allowed to be exported outside of the United States.F-14A Tomcat relic mounted onto canvas artwork

Despite its issues, the TF-30 played a significant role in the early operational years of the F-14 Tomcat, seeing action throughout the 1970s and 1980s. By the 1990s, advancements in engine technology led to the replacement of the TF-30 with the more reliable and powerful General Electric F110 engine, significantly improving the Tomcat’s performance and reliability. These components, processed for disposal in 1994, represents a bygone era in aviation history where cutting-edge technology faced rapid evolution.

Photo highlighting TF-30 Afterburner Fairing Shield, which is the piece of relic included in the "Fear the Bones" limited edition prints

The TF-30 engine, though eventually deemed inadequate, was a stepping stone in the development of superior jet propulsion systems and contributed to the success of the Tomcat. This rare fragment is no longer airworthy, making it a unique collector’s item for enthusiasts of naval aviation and military technology - sorry, these parts can't be shipped outside of the United States.Artist, Craig Tinder, holding the piece of afterburner fairing shield from an F-14 Tomcat

HERITAGE ALLOY™

Heritage Alloy™ is the next generation of Aces In Action Relic Artwork. Made from a rigid aluminum composite material, its smooth surface delivers exceptional color, contrast, and fine detail with a luminous quality that is difficult to fully capture in photographs.

Each Heritage Alloy™ edition incorporates our exclusive Artifact Dock™, integrating the authentic historical relic, its provenance, and limited-edition identification directly into the artwork. Available Ready to Hang or finished in a solid black wood frame.

GALLERY-WRAPPED CANVAS

Select Relic Artwork editions remain available on our traditional gallery-wrapped canvas while inventory lasts. Canvas provides a classic, textured fine-art presentation and is available Ready to Hang or finished in our traditional black floater frame.

AVAILABLE SIZES & FORMATS

• 18" × 12" (45.7 × 30.5 cm) — Heritage Alloy™ or Gallery-Wrapped Canvas; Ready to Hang or Framed
  
• 30" × 20" (76.2 × 50.8 cm) — Heritage Alloy™ or Gallery-Wrapped Canvas; Framed
  
• Custom sizes may be available upon request
  

READY TO HANG

Every Relic Artwork edition arrives ready for display. 18" × 12" Heritage Alloy™ Ready-to-Hang editions include an installed rear wall-mount bracket, while Gallery-Wrapped Canvas arrives ready to hang without an external frame. Framed editions include installed hanging hardware. No additional framing or mounting is required before display.

RELIC MATERIAL & VARIATION

Unless otherwise stated, the relic included with your artwork is a fragment taken from the larger historical component shown in the reference photos. The size, shape, color, markings, and appearance of each relic may vary based on the original material available. Reference photos are provided to document and illustrate the source of the relic material and may not depict the exact fragment included with your artwork.

ARTIST • HISTORIAN • RELIC CURATOR

Craig Tinder has spent more than two decades creating historically researched artwork that connects collectors with the people, machines, and events that shaped history. His work goes far beyond illustrating an aircraft, ship, or vehicle—the research and historical artifacts behind each piece are an integral part of the artwork.

Craig works with museums, aircraft and vehicle restoration organizations, veterans, historians, collectors, and other historical institutions around the world to locate and document authentic artifacts with meaningful connections to the subjects he depicts. He supplements this physical evidence with extensive research using museum collections, military records, historical photographs, archives, and other primary and secondary sources from around the world.

In his workshop, Craig carefully prepares and incorporates these genuine historical relics into his signed and numbered artwork, preserving their provenance while giving artifacts that might otherwise remain unseen a new way to tell their story.

Meet Craig Tinder →

SHIPPING

Each Relic Artwork edition is individually handcrafted and completed by Craig Tinder. From engraving and assembling the Artifact Dock to preparing the relic, framing the artwork when selected, and completing the final inspection and packaging, every piece is finished specifically for its collector. Please allow additional time for this hands-on process before your artwork ships.

Gift wrapping is available for Relic Artwork, making it ready for presentation upon arrival.

DISPLAY & CARE

All Relic Artwork arrives ready to display. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed.

Premium Relic Artwork editions are designed for long-term display. Keep artwork away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and extreme temperature changes. Dust gently with a clean, soft, dry cloth and avoid household cleaners or abrasive materials on the artwork, frame, relic, or Artifact Dock.