V-2 rocket fragments - launched on 2 March 1945

This relic on display comes from the remains of a V-2 rocket, recovered near Chigwell, UK, just three miles from the London/Essex border. Between 1944 and 1945, a total of 13 V-2 rockets impacted Chigwell, with two striking on the same day—March 2, 1945. These attacks were part of Nazi Germany's relentless campaign against Britain during the final stages of World War II.

After researching the location where these fragments were excavated coupled with eye witness accounts which sets the date of the attack, we were able to unarchive the German records of that day and pieced together the pertinent details about the exact launch. Here's the story -

2 March 1945, 20 German soldiers and engineers of the Artillery Regiment 1./902 assembled at the Hoek van Holland V-2 Missle launch site in Holland to prepare 22 V-2 launches against London that day. Freshly supplied from the local railway, the 22,000 lb. rocket was filled with liquid propellant (ethanol & oxygen) and was prepared for launch. At precisely 5:35 am, the launch control officer yelled the final command, "Hauptstufe!" and the rocket roared into the air.

A mere 296 seconds later (at 3,500 mph or Mach 2.35), the rocket descended and exploded in an open field 3 miles northeast of London near Chigwell. Upon impact, a small house just 700 meters away was damaged. Just 7 minutes later, a second V-2 exploded, this time in the air, only 300 meters from the previous impact.

This original V-2 fragment was recovered from this area near Chigwell. It is unknown which of those two rockets this artifact originated from.

The V-2 rocket, officially known as the "Vergeltungswaffe 2" (Vengeance Weapon 2), was the world’s first long-range guided ballistic missile. It represented a significant leap in military technology, using liquid-fueled engines to propel it to heights of over 50 miles and speeds of more than 3,500 miles per hour. This made the V-2 nearly impossible to intercept, giving it the ability to rain destruction without warning. Upon re-entry into the atmosphere, the rocket would dive at supersonic speeds toward its target, detonating with a force of nearly 1 ton of explosives.

V-2 Rocket - National AIr and Space Museum

ABOUT THE PLAQUE

Each Relic Art Plaque combines Craig Tinder's historical artwork with an authentic relic and documented history in a compact, ready-to-display collectible. The artwork is presented on a piano-black wood plaque with a metallic finish designed to complement the incorporated artifact.

AVAILABLE SIZES

• 5" × 7" (12.7 × 17.8 cm)
  
• 8" × 10" (20.3 × 25.4 cm)
  

Availability varies by edition.

READY TO DISPLAY

Each plaque includes a removable kickstand for upright display on a desk, shelf, bookcase, or display cabinet and can also be hung on a wall. No additional framing is required.

AUTHENTIC RELICS

Because every relic is an authentic historical artifact, its color, markings, surface texture, and shape may vary from the example photographed. These natural differences make each finished plaque unique.

Craig Tinder is an artist and historical researcher whose work brings significant moments in military and aviation history to life. For more than 20 years, he has combined detailed research with traditional and digital illustration techniques to create historically accurate artwork for collectors, veterans, museums, and historical organizations.

Craig has been commissioned to create artwork, installations, and memorial projects for museums, military organizations, and historical institutions throughout the United States. His work is held in museum and private collections around the world, reflecting a career built around historical accuracy, craftsmanship, and preserving the stories behind the subjects he depicts.

Every Aces In Action artwork is created by Craig Tinder, making Aces In Action the official home of his historical artwork and collectibles.

Meet Craig Tinder →

SHIPPING

Each Relic Art Plaque is individually completed and inspected by Aces In Action before shipment. The authentic relic is incorporated into the finished plaque, the Certificate of Authenticity is included, and the completed piece is carefully packaged for its collector. Please allow additional time for this hands-on process before your plaque ships.

Gift wrapping is available for Relic Art Plaques.

DISPLAY & CARE

Each plaque arrives ready to display. Use the removable kickstand for tabletop or shelf display, or hang the plaque on a wall using the integrated mounting option.

To preserve the artwork and relic, keep the plaque away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and extreme temperature changes. Dust gently with a clean, soft, dry cloth. Avoid household cleaners, solvents, or abrasive materials on the artwork, plaque surface, or relic.