In 1926 Clifford B. Harmon, a wealthy sportsman and aviator, established three international trophies to be awarded annually to the world's outstanding aviator, aviatrix, and aeronaut. A fourth trophy was later created to honor achievements in space flight. The Harmon Trophy--the aviator's award--is given for the most outstanding international achievements in the preceding year, with the art of flying receiving first consideration. The Smithsonian Institution acquired the aviator's trophy in 1950 from the Clifford B. Harmon Trust.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.