This fragment of internal hull steel from the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) represents a unique piece of naval history. Recovered from the aft, central section of the ship's double-bottom area, this specific piece was provided to Aces In Action by the ship-breaking contractor responsible for scrapping the USS Kitty Hawk in Brownsville, Texas. Measuring 1/2 inch thick, the steel was removed in December 2024, offering a tangible connection to one of the most significant aircraft carriers in U.S. Navy history.

Section of Double Bottom Hull Steel (amidship) of the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) being dismantled in Brownsville, Texas

The Kitty Hawk was designed with a double-bottom hull, a critical feature for large naval vessels such as aircraft carriers. A double-bottom hull consists of two layers of steel plating on the bottom of the ship, separated by a narrow space that enhances the vessel's structural integrity and resilience. This design was particularly important for warships like the Kitty Hawk, as it provided an additional layer of protection against underwater threats such as torpedoes, mines, and accidental collisions. While the outer steel layer served as the primary defense against external impacts, the inner layer added a secondary barrier, reducing the risk of breaches that could compromise buoyancy or internal compartments.

Plate of Hull Steel from the USS Kitty Hawk CV-63

This engineering approach not only improved the survivability of the ship but also allowed for safer storage of fuel, ballast, and other critical materials within the space between the two layers. In combat scenarios, the double-bottom hull design was a key feature that contributed to the ship's ability to sustain damage while continuing to operate effectively. Despite the extra protection it offered, the hull maintained a single, solid outer structure to ensure hydrodynamic efficiency, a critical factor for a vessel as large and mission-critical as an aircraft carrier.

Close-up of torch cut marks in removal of the relic

The USS Kitty Hawk served the U.S. Navy for nearly 50 years, and her double-bottom hull was a testament to the innovative naval engineering of the era. This fragment not only embodies the strength and durability of the ship but also highlights the advancements in shipbuilding that made aircraft carriers such as the Kitty Hawk vital assets in projecting naval power across the globe.

Plate of Hull Steel of USS Kitty Hawk CV-63

Plate of Hull Steel of USS Kitty Hawk CV-63

Relic Ingots and Steel Metal Shavings of the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63)

This art piece is an officially licensed product of the U.S. Department of the Navy.

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.