This appears to be the tip of a turbine airfoil of the J58 supersonic jet engine which has been badly mangled. It is likely a nickel-based superalloy to withstand extreme temperatures.
This was one of the key pieces that contributed to the Blackbird being the fastest airplane ever flown. This is the same type of item as A-1007.
Prior to the SR-71, jet engine turbines were cast using methods that could lead to minor imperfections due to the polycrystalline structure of the metal. These imperfections were tolerated at the time, but as engine became more powerful and ran at higher temperatures, these imperfections had to be addressed.
The construction of the SR-71 paved the way in the development of single-crystalline superalloy airfoils. Over 200 scientists and engineers worked over 10 years to perfect this technology that is now used throughout the aviation industry.
Dimensions: 1.75" x 1.5" x 0.25"
The sale price includes the item(s) pictured, verified provenance, & certificate of authenticity.
