Amy Johnson, c.1921
An original photograph of pioneering aviator Amy Johnson, accompanied by contemporary handwritten identification on the reverse, predating her historic solo flight from Britain to Australia.
A future aviation pioneer, captured early
Amy Johnson stands among the most important figures in the history of aviation. In 1930 she became the first woman to fly solo from Britain to Australia, a feat that transformed her into an international icon and redefined what was thought possible in long-distance flight.
This photograph dates from the early 1920s, before Johnson achieved worldwide fame. It captures her at a formative stage in her life, offering a rare glimpse of a figure who would soon reshape public perceptions of aviation, endurance, and women’s roles in technical achievement.
The artefact
The item is an original photographic print, authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA. The image shows Amy Johnson seated with companions in an informal outdoor setting, consistent with early 1920s personal or press photography.
Crucially, the reverse of the photograph carries period handwritten identification referencing Johnson and her later achievement as the first woman to fly solo from Britain to Australia. Such contemporary annotations form an integral part of the artefact’s provenance.
Front of PSA/DNA encapsulated original photograph showing Amy Johnson prior to her historic long-distance aviation achievements.
Amy Johnson and the early aviation era
The early 1920s marked a transitional period in aviation, as flying moved from experimental and military contexts into record-setting civilian achievement. Figures such as Amy Johnson emerged from this environment, combining technical competence with extraordinary determination.
Images of Johnson from this early period are scarce. Most surviving photographs date from after her 1930 Australia flight, when she became a public figure. Pre-fame material such as this is therefore particularly sought after by aviation historians and collectors.
The reverse and handwritten provenance
The reverse of the photograph features contemporary handwritten identification referencing Amy Johnson and her later historic solo flight to Australia. The note also names Harry White and Sheila Gawtherp, understood to have been contemporaries of Johnson during her time in Bridlington, where she was educated. The wording indicates that Sheila Gawtherp was the cousin of the original owner of the photograph, confirming the annotation as personal and first-hand rather than later editorial attribution.
Reverse of the photograph showing period handwritten identification relating to Amy Johnson’s aviation achievements.
Why this photograph matters
This photograph is more than a portrait of a famous aviator. It is a primary historical document that captures Amy Johnson before her defining achievement, accompanied by contemporary annotation that acknowledges the significance she would later attain.
As an authenticated original photograph with period handwritten provenance, it represents a rare survival from the formative years of one of aviation’s most important figures.
Acquisition
This artefact forms part of the CardHawk Vault, a curated archive of historically significant sports and aviation material. Selected items from the Vault are available for acquisition via CardHawkUK, with ownership and transactions handled separately from the archival presentation.
View acquisition details on CardHawkUK →
PSA/DNA authentication enquiries
CardHawk offers specialist support for PSA/DNA authentication of original photographs, documents, and historically significant artefacts. PSA/DNA submissions can be complex, and costs vary depending on the nature and provenance of the material.
If you have aviation-related or historical material you believe may be suitable for PSA/DNA authentication, we encourage you to get in touch for an initial review.