Fully Restored WWII Fighter Plane Up for Auction

A British warplane that was shot down in 1940 during World War II and was later meticulously restored to flying condition is slated to hit the auction block this summer.

The fighter plane — one of only two original Mk. 1 Spitfire models still able to fly — will be sold to commemorate the 75th anniversary of two pivotal WWII skirmishes: the Battle of France and the Battle of Britain. The historic aircraft could fetch up to $3.8 million (2.5 million British pounds), according to Christie's London, the auction house handling the sale.

The Spitfire, called P9374, has been restored to its original specifications and is able to take to the air today, said auction house Christie's of the sale, which will take place July 9. 

The iconic warplane is associated with the Battle of Britain, in which the German Air Force attempted to exert superiority over the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force (RAF). The campaign, which began in the summer of 1940, included a series of battles in British airspace and bombing raids over the United Kingdom. The Spitfire is credited with helping Britain hold its own and for preventing the Germans from becoming the dominant force in the air.

"Christie's is proud to be entrusted with the sale of this Spitfire, a truly iconic aircraft which is a symbol of the bravery 'of the few' in the Battle of Britain," Robert Copley, deputy chair of Christie's UK, said in a statement.