Although eighteen other First World War pilots were awarded VC's, none had captured the public imagination as much as Albert Ball. At a time when morale was low, when the war and its casualties seemed never ending, Albert Ball became a symbol of hope.

His individuality and his insistence on fighting alone set him apart from other fighter pilots. His invincible courage and his utter determination made him a legend not only in Britain but also amongst his enemies, to whom the sight of his lone Nieuport Scout brought fear. He was killed, in circumstances still not completely resolved, on May 7th 1917, aged just 20.

A213 was originally built with the French serial number N1579, it was delivered to No. 60 Squadron on 16thSeptember 1916. Albert Ball took over flying this machine on his return from leave in mid-September. He went on to score 11 kills in this plane by the end of September! With his overall score at 31, he returned to England for a rest.

A213 was lost in combat on March 6th1917, whilst being flown by the CO, Maj. E.P. Graves.

Nieuports purchased from the French before November 1916 were finished in French Olive Drab upper surfaces and Clear Doped Linen under surfaces. The flight markings are speculative, and based on marking practices of No.60 Sqn at the time.

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