Medals

Our upcoming ‘Selections & Collections’ auction in Cardiff (date to be confirmed) features a small single-owner collection of medals diligently assembled by a gentleman in Pembrokeshire. Inherited by his son who recalls the trips to local auctions and dealers buying the medals, the family hope they find a new home where they will be appreciated and enjoyed. Amongst the group is an important 1815 Waterloo Campaign medal awarded to Francis Harris of the 35th (Royal Sussex) Regiment of Foot, 2nd Battalion. 2nd Battalion was formed in 1804 and took part in the unsuccessful Walcheren Campaign in 1809 suffering huge casualties before seeing action at the Battle of Waterloo in June 1815. Produced in solid silver and retaining its original steel clip, ring and ribbon the medal is a great example. Designed by Thomas Wyon, the Chief Engraver to the Royal Mint, the Waterloo medal was the first medal to be engraved with the soldier’s name, rank and regiment around the edge setting a precedent for future awards. With a pre-auction estimate of £800-1200 it is a great opportunity to acquire an important medal which would undoubtedly improve any collection.

Also within the collection is an 1854 Crimea medal awarded to H Macey, a driver in the Royal Horse Artillery. Boasting the original floriated, swivelling suspender and wide pale blue ribbon with yellow edges, it is also adorned with four ornate oak leaf clasps for Sebastopol, Inkermann, Balaklava and Alma. The Royal Horse Artillery (RHA) was formed in 1793 and provided distinguished service in the great wars of the 19th and 20th centuries. Horses are still in service for ceremonial purposes today. Estimated at £200-400 it is a lovely example for the discerning collector.

A recent auction highlight at our salerooms was a George VI Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) group awarded to Stoker Petty Officer P. McKeon O/KX 81234 HMS Dolphin. The medal group comprised a Distinguished Service Medal, Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, War Medal 1939-45 with bronze oak leaf, Burma Star with Pacific clasp, Africa Star with North Africa 1942-43 clasp, Atlantic Star and 1939-1945 Star. Together with Submarines O.C.A. fabric badge, For Loyal Service lapel, two Royal Artillery handkerchiefs, Apostleship of the Sea Seafarers` Barbados Branch Daily Prayers card booklet, handwritten letters written aboard HMS Sikh, War Gratuity & Wages slip, certificate of discharge, certificate of service, conduct record sheet, history sheet for Stoker ratings, passing certificate for Stoker Petty Officer, auxiliary machinery course for Stoker rating, newspaper cutting notifying death and notification of being mentioned in a despatch for distinguished service.

The group was a real pleasure to handle and auction and was consigned at one of our very popular valuation days held at Cyfarthfa Castle. The group sold for a strong £1800 + BP following strong online and telephone interest.