Tel: 01268 777122   |   Email: info@staceyauction.com
 
1

detail

A rare Nelson Testimonial Medal 1844, by E. Avern, depicting the bust of Nelson, enclosed by a garter, 'England Expects Every Man Will do His Duty'; reverse having a view of the Column in Trafalgar Square, with the National Gallery and the Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields in the background, 'To Commemorate the Opening of the Nelson Testimonial in Trafalgar Squ.';'21 October 1844', 60mm., pewter, pierced for ring suspension. The 'Gentlemen of the Parish of St. Martins' had raised a subscription for the purpose of giving a dinner to veteran sailors on the occasion of the ceremonial opening of Nelson's Column. Unsuccessful in this regard, the fund was instead used to strike a commemorative medal to be awarded to the veterans together with a gratuity of 10 shillings. The medal was duly struck and presented on 2 April 1845 to eligible In-pensioners of Greenwich Hospital; being awarded to 39 who had served at Cape St. Vincent, 35 at the Nile, 45 at Copenhagen and 238 at Trafalgar. A total of 357 awards

SOLD FOR £300