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Thornton-pickardmfg. Co. Mark III Hythe Camera (MK III H) (Aerial)

The Thornton-Pickard Mark III Hythe Camera (MK III H) is a British aerial gun camera built in the shape of a Lewis machine gun, used during the First World War to train aircrew in aerial gunnery without live ammunition. Pulling the trigger exposed a frame of film, allowing instructors to assess a trainee's aim against enemy aircraft.

At UK auction, hammer prices for the Mark III Hythe have ranged widely — from £120 at saleroom level in 2000 up to about £2,000 in 2021, with a more recent 2022 result around £560. As of today in 2026 the small sample size means what a Mark III Hythe is worth depends heavily on completeness, originality of the wooden stock and metalwork, and provenance, with militaria-grade examples sitting at the upper end of the range.

Sales History

Prices shown are UK auction hammer results — the wholesale level achieved in the saleroom. Neither buyer’s nor seller’s commission is included. Dealer and retail asking prices are typically higher.

Date Price Source
Apr 2022 £562 Flints Auctions
Nov 2021 £1,984 Flints Auctions
Jul 2000 £117 Christie's