1953 De Havilland DHC-2

The de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver is widely regarded as the greatest bush plane ever built — a six-seat, single-engine STOL aircraft powered by a Pratt and Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior radial engine (450 HP) that can operate from any surface: water, gravel, grass, snow, or pavement. Built from 1947 to 1967 with only 1,657 produced, the Beaver has become an appreciating collectible — surviving examples increase in value every year as supply shrinks and demand from tour operators, lodges, and adventure operators only grows. The Beaver's round-engine sound, massive useful load (2,100 lbs), and legendary STOL capability (takeoff in 600 feet on wheels) make it irreplaceable in bush operations from Alaska to British Columbia to East Africa. On Edo 4580 or Wipaire 4000 floats, the Beaver is the standard Pacific Northwest floatplane. Turbine conversions (Texas Turbine/Blackhawk PT6A-34 or -21, 550-680 SHP) replace the aging radial engine with turboprop reliability and add $300,000-$500,000 to value. Turbine Beavers cruise at 120-130 KTAS with dramatically improved climb performance and payload. Buying advice. Wing spar condition is the most critical structural item — verify compliance with all service bulletins. Float attachment fittings, belly skins, and lower fuselage longerons require careful corrosion inspection. For radial-engine Beavers, R-985 cylinder condition, oil consumption, and accessory case integrity are key items. Turbine conversions require verification of the STC, engine condition, and installation quality. Market. Radial-engine Beaver on wheels: $400,000-$800,000. On floats: $500,000-$1.2M. Turbine Beaver on amphibious floats: $800,000-$1.5M+. A de Havilland Beaver for sale is a trophy asset that appreciates while you fly it.