Token Publishing

Canine Hero

Phil Mussell — 10/03/2010 16:56:44

All that glisters . . .

THE recent award of the PDSA�s Dickin Medal, the �Animal VC�, to the bomb search dog Treo serves as a timely reminder that our hobby isn�t always about the more obvious campaign and gallantry medals. The Dickin Medal itself is of course a gallantry award, given to animals whose bravery in the line of duty deserves recognition. Since its inception in 1943 27 dogs, 32 messenger pigeons, three horses and famously one cat (Simon of HMS Amethyst) have been awarded the medal and it remains highly prized by collectors. However, its award does highlight how diverse our hobby is. Yes, it is a gallantry award and, yes, it was awarded for action in a war zone�but it was awarded to an animal�hardly a standard issue gong like most in our collections!

It is all too easy to think of medals purely as �souvenirs� of war given to service personnel as �mementoes� of bravery or deprivation on campaign and whilst it is true that the medals with the really interesting stories attached, those awarded for famous actions or to particularly vicious battles or wars, do fetch the most money at auction or grab the headlines in the press, we must not forget that there is far more to our passion than just them. A quick look at the MEDAL YEARBOOK will reveal that of the 370+ medals in the main section of the book (this discounting the Life Saving, Commonwealth and Unofficial sections), only 48 are gallantry decorations (although some orders are awarded for gallantry of course) and 166 are included in the campaign section to denote action of some kind (this includes the badges, memorial plaque, etc., where appropriate). In other words, well over a third of the book is concerned not with bravery or war per se but rather with medals of commemoration of some kind, be they celebrating long service, Royal Coronations or Jubilees (sorry about that mistake last month!), good shooting or anniversaries of the award of other medals! And the recipients are as diverse as the medals themselves. We have medals awarded to children; medals issued to women starving themselves in the name of equality and emancipation; medals issued to members of the Royal Household and Royal messengers; medals awarded to those who excel in the fields of science or art; medals for nurses, prison officers, policemen, the fire brigade and for �loyal� government servants; medals for recruiters; medals for service in a motoring organisation and of course medals awarded to animals.

Ask any non-collector about medals and the VC will, naturally, be uppermost on their mind as bravery is what they normally associate medals with. Few, I suspect, will think about an independence medal or Coronation gong and yet often it is these very medals, the innocuous ones that hang around amongst bigger, more important-looking awards that actually make our hobby so much more interesting. It is all too easy to forget that those medals that come after page 205 of the YEARBOOK all have a story to tell too. Of course, most of us will gravitate towards the conventional campaign or gallantry collecting and many of us will not really consider the �miscellaneous medals� as important parts of the group at all. But consider this: a World War I trio or QSA/KSA pair with an LS&GC attached might not have the romance of an MC group, but the inclusion of that long service medal tells us much about a man who had to serve for a long time (21 years in the case of the early Victorian Army or Navy) often enduring terrible conditions. A bravery award can be won in a hot-headed instant but a long runner can only be achieved after years of level-headed slog. A �Royal Visit� medal can pinpoint the recipient�s historical location just as assuredly as any gallantry award. A Polar medal will speak of conditions just as harsh as those endured on many campaigns and a good shooting medal will tell of training and dedication on a par to that of any soldier in battle. Yes, it is true that the �hot-headed� bravery awards have the romance factor and the good old campaign medals have the research advantage, but don�t forget the quirky ones, the unconventional ones, they have a story to tell too!

Read more about the �unconventional� MSM in the second of Ian McInness� excellent series of articles on page 14 and, of course, don�t forget there will be a fine array of �miscellany� on offer at the Britannia Medal Fair on March 21. For a full list of dealers attending and for more details see pages 28-29. It�s not too late to send in your �wants� on the form that appeared in last month�s MEDAL NEWS.

New Medal for holocaust survivors

Phil Mussell — 09/03/2010 21:17:00

According to news reports a new medal honouring "ordinary Britons" who helped save Jews from the Holocaust has been presented to two men (with 26 posthumous awards) by Gordon Brown. We'll try to find more about this story in the next few days - in the mean time the BBC report can be found here but don't be fooled by the picture that's a Knight's Batchelor's Badge (KB) that Sir Nicholas is holding!

Canada to go plastic

Phil Mussell — 08/03/2010 12:46:00

It has recently been announced that Canada will be the latest nation to introduce the harder wearing polymer notes into circulation. Anyone who has ever holidayed in Australia will be familiar with these almost indestructible notes which last far longer than their "paper" (actually cotton) counterparts and are far more difficult to forge. For the full story see here

Elgar �20 to be withdrawn

Phil Mussell — 08/03/2010 12:41:00

It was, of course, inevitable - the Elgar £20 note first introduced in 1999 is to be withdrawn from circulation on June 30 2010. After that date it will cease to have "legal tender" status meaning there will be no obligation on the part of retailers to accept is as payment. Old notes will, of course, be able to be exchanged at most banks far into the future and the Bank of England is obliged to exchange any of their issued notes regardless of their age. In fact the Bank of England will still give you £5 for an old white fiver - but you'd be nuts to take them up on that one!

Britannia- March 21st

Phil Mussell — 08/03/2010 11:33:00

Don't forget the next Britannia show - it's to be held on Sunday March 21st at the usual venue - the Carisbrooke Hall, Victory Services Club, Marble Arch, London from 9.30am-2.00pm.

The full list of dealers attending is as follows:

Bonhams

Boer War register (Meurig Jones)

Philip Burman

Andrew Bostock

John Cannon

Mark Carter

Chelsea Military Antiques

Peter Cotrel

David Desborough

CJ & AJ Dixon

DNW

Bill Friar Medals

Andrew Fryer

Gordon's Medals

Ian Laidler

Bob Lynes

Matt Matoian

M&D Medals

John Manning

Medals of England.com

Morton and Eden

Peter Morris

Scotmint

Steve Sewell

Spink

V J C Collectables

Fred Walland

Waterloo Militaria

Stephen Wheeler

ANy subscriber who hasn't got a ticket do let me know!

When is a coin not a coin...? When it's treasure of course

Phil Mussell — 04/03/2010 15:20:00

The story of the Ludlow woman who took a "coin" into her local museum, was told it was of historical significance and that she should hand it in but didn't - incurring the wrath of the Coroner and a subsequent criminal record has split the numismatic world.

Were the authorities just being jobsworths or was Kate Harding pushing her luck? After all she'd taken it to a museum so the authorities were aware of the coin (actually a French piedfort) so to not follow it up by declaring it, even when she was told too was pretty silly - wasn't it?

Have a look at the story here and tell us what you think. Yes I was taken out of context but the crux of my argument is still valid!

Timely Auction

Carol — 01/03/2010 16:41:00

Timeline Auctions very first catalogue has arrived on the Editor's desk and very impressive it is too! This beautifully put together catalogue for their coins and antiquities sale on March 19 arrived too late for inclusion in the March issue of Coin News but it warrants a mention here. For catalogue details or view consigned items go to www.timelineauctions.com

New Look for Jersey's notes

Phil Mussell — 23/02/2010 12:47:00

Jeresy's banknotes are being given a radical new make over - the first re-design in 21 years!

For the full story see here

East India Company

Phil Mussell — 22/02/2010 14:09:01

Looking to the future . . .

THE imminent arrival of the �biggest coin programme since decimalisation� (the Olympic 50 pences) inevitably throws up questions about coins, coin collecting and, more importantly, coin collectors themselves. We all know why the majority of us started�we started way back in the days when there were such things as rare dates, errors, mint marks and die flaws, the days when getting a handful of change elicited great excitement and much poring and sorting. Those were the days when a pocketful of pennies could have included the effigies of five monarchs and when a simple thing like a different date on a coin would have had us jumping for joy. Today�s collectors can only get that joy from buying from dealers, auction houses or on the internet, and the surprises have all disappeared as every coin is catalogued and priced accordingly. Apart from the recent 20p �error� there has been little to excite the average collector in his pocket change since the last of the pre-decimals were phased out, and that has had a fundamental affect on our hobby.

Whether we like it or not there are far fewer young collectors now than there were 40 years ago and whilst much of the blame for that can be put at the feet of all the other activities young people can now partake in, some of the responsibility has to lie with the whole decimalisation programme that robbed us of much of the variety that had made our hobby so interesting. With the 50 pence programme�full details of which we will give you as soon as we have them, I promise (we do know the next coin features cycling as the theme and has been designed by Yorkshire teenager Theo Crutchley-Mack, but when it will be issued is still a mystery!)�the Royal Mint hopes to stimulate the collectors once again by giving a new generation a reason to check their change and start sorting through their pockets and purses. Having spoken to the Royal Mint we are assured that there will be collectors packs, folders, etc., etc., made available so that the school children of the 21st century can have as much fun as we did searching for those elusive last few coins to complete the series and, hopefully, this will lead them on to collecting more in the future. The idea behind this programme is not just to get everyone looking out for the latest 50p but rather to get them to appreciate our coins in general�who knows where that may lead!

But perhaps it isn�t as simple as that. Perhaps we�ll never get back to the heady days of pre-decimalisation and maybe to hope for such a return is to hope in vain. Whether we like it or not the �younger generation� just are not the same as we were, collecting just doesn�t feature like once it did. Oh, certainly they have their fads: they�ll collect football stickers, pokemon cards (or whatever the latest trend is), but these are flash-in-the-pan, five minute wonders, as quickly forgotten as they were once enthused about. It seems that collecting, OK hoarding, as we knew it, just isn�t part of the 21st century psyche if you are under 30! If that�s the case is the Royal Mint wasting millions on a coin programme that just won�t work or is there hope after all? If you look at the US Quarters programme, the benchmark for any such release as this, you will see that it has actually been phenomenally successful and even though American teenagers are much like our own, when it comes to their leisure habits somehow the US Treasury has done the unthinkable and has actually created new collectors. Will the Royal Mint be able to do the same? There is another possibility of course, one that hasn�t really been considered, and that is the chance that these coins will prove popular not as a series but as individual pieces, with those interested in cycling eager to pick up as many cycling coins as possible, those interested in swimming doing the same for their sport (I am assuming swimming will feature somewhere) and so on, with each new release being eagerly awaited not by the series collectors but rather by those who have a vested interest in the sport depicted. You may think this far fetched but there are mints across the world making vast amounts of money by milking the thematics market, so why should the Royal Mint be any different?

Of course, all this is conjecture, we don�t know how successful the programme will be, but one thing is certain, in one way or another it will surprise us all. Collectors in the UK are an odd bunch (yes we are) and there is no accounting for what they�ll do�look at the silver Britannia series for example, originally struck as bullion coinage with no immediate collecting potential but it is proving more and more popular, so much so that we are going to have to add a Britannia section to the next Coin Yearbook! With this in mind I can pretty much guarantee that no matter what we all think the Olympic 50 pence programme will deliver, it will probably do something else entirely. I can�t wait to find out what!

Money Laundering

Phil Mussell — 16/02/2010 12:10:00

Well this is different....

Chilean error

Phil Mussell — 12/02/2010 09:32:00

The recent "dateless" 20p showed that even an institution as rigid about standards as the Royal Mint can get things wrong - but it's doubtful that they, or indeed most national Mints would make the mistake discovered in Chile recently - somehow they actually managed to get the name of their country wrong!

News reports on February 12 indicate that the general manager of the Chilean Mint, Gregorio Iniguez, and several other employees have been dismissed after it was discovered that "thousands" of 50 peso coins (equivalent to about 6p) were issued in 2008 with the country misspelled C H I I E rather than C H I L E.

Needless to say the coins have rapidly become collectors items and the Mint has not withdrawn them from circulation.

New Olympic design announced.

Phil Mussell — 10/02/2010 10:00:00

The next Olympic 50p design has been unveiled - depicting "Cycling" as the sport the coin was designed by 16 Year Old Theo Crutchley-Mack from Halifax. There's still no news as to the exact date of the launch of this new programme nor how many of each coin will be issued but we will keep you informed I promise!

Dickin Medal Awarded

Phil Mussell — 08/02/2010 08:18:00

A "bomb sniffer" dog working in Afghanistan is to be honoured with the "animals" VC - the Dickin Medal.

Princess Alexandra will award black Labrador Treo the Dickin Medal at the Imperial War Museum,making him the 63rd animal to have won the award since its institution in 1943 and thr 26th canine recipient. The last, Sadie, also a black Labrador, was also awarded the medal for work in Afghanistan back in 2005.

For the full story see here

Brazil's new notes

Phil Mussell — 04/02/2010 12:10:00

Brazil's Central Bank has unveiled new banknotes with superior print quality and new security features to prevent counterfeiting.

The new bills unveiled Wednesday are in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 reais, Xinhua reported.

The new notes have different sizes and notches so that they can be easily identified by touch.

Central Bank governor Henrique Meirelles said technological upgrading is needed to make counterfeiting more difficult.

New notes of 50 and 100 reais will start circulating in the first half of 2010, while those of lesser face value will be phased in by 2012.

Those currently in circulation remain valid until complete replacement, so people do not need to rush for new notes, said Meirelles.

Yate? Yep!

Phil Mussell — 03/02/2010 11:09:00

Are you coming to Yate this Sunday? As ever the Token team will be at Mark Carter's Medal Fair at the Leisure Centre Yate on Sunday - 9.30am start for "preview" 10.30am for the "normal opening" (but you wouldn't want that now would you - you might miss something).

See you there!

Krause 1801-1900 AT LAST!!

Phil Mussell — 02/02/2010 17:04:00

Yes after seemingly months of waiting the BRAND NEW Standard Catalog of World Coins 1801-1900 is now available. We have them in stock NOW so order yours today - click here for details

Another record smashed

Phil Mussell — 01/02/2010 16:54:38

Nothing new...

MANY of you will have seen the recent news concerning the �soldier� Roger Day who appeared at an Armistice Day parade in Warwickshire sporting a chest-full of medals and proudly wearing an SAS beret and insignia. Those of us in the know instantly spotted that this character couldn�t possibly be entitled to most of the gongs he wore (which included a DSO with MID emblem, an MC with MID emblem, a QGM, an MM, a DCM an MSM, various campaign medals amongst which was the South Atlantic Medal and Gulf War Medal, some foreign awards and an LS&GC!), or if he was he should have been very famous indeed. Putting two and two together it didn�t take a genius to realise that if he wasn�t entitled to most of them, the chances were he wasn�t entitled to any. Indeed, so it proved and this latter day �Walter Mitty� with no military service experience at all was recently sentenced at Nuneaton Magistrates Court to 60 hours community service after pleading guilty, under Section 197 of the Military Act 1955, to unlawfully using military decoration�claiming that he had only started the deception to impress his third wife.

Now such bizarre characters as this are not unheard of, indeed in the US, where veterans enjoy certain privileges, the problem of �imposters� became widespread enough to warrant the introduction of the Stolen Valor (sic) Act of 2005, which addresses the unauthorised wear, manufacture, sale or claim of any military decorations or medals�an act that had US collectors worried for some time until its purpose was clarified. What is interesting is that all these oddballs, British, American, whoever, seem to claim membership of some Special Forces outfit such as the SAS or Navy Seals. Either that or, as in Mr Day�s case, they seem to sport a particularly impressive combination of awards and decorations. If they are wearing just one or two medals you can bet they�ll be biggies: the Congressional Medal of Honor perhaps or, as in the case of the man who introduced himself to me at the York Coin and Medal Fair last summer, the Victoria Cross itself (I was pleased and proud to meet him until I quickly realised he couldn�t possibly be who he claimed to be). No-one, apparently, fantasises about being in the Army Pay Corps and being awarded a long runner . . . ! As a rule of thumb you can more or less guarantee that those who talk at length about their exploits in the Special Forces and the awards they won therein aren�t worth listening to. Those that keep mum are the ones with the real stories to tell.

Now you may believe that, whilst not unusual, such �Walts� are a relatively modern phenomenon� but actually you would be wrong, as the following excerpt from the Gloucesteshire Echo, sent in by reader Mick Kippin shows:

A tall, well-setup man named George Roberts was placed in the dock at the Cheltenham Police Court on Thursday morning charged with wearing military decorations without authority. He was stated to be on the Army Reserve and to be 38 years of age.

Capt E. B.Towse, who conducted the prosecution, said the decorations which the prisoner was found wearing consisted of the ribbons of the Victoria Cross, the Distinguished Conduct Medal, the Military Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Mons Star, one red and three blue chevrons and nine wound stripes. He also wore the uniform of a regimental sergeant-major, and was masquerading as such when he was seen at Gloucester on the 28th August by the Military Foot Police. On the 30th he (Capt Towse) saw the prisoner himself in the city, interrogated him and finding that he could not give satisfactory answers, he brought him to Cheltenham. There, as he was being taken into the Police Station, Supt Hopkins recognised him as a man who had served several terms of imprisonment for various offences.

Inquiries went to show that the prisoner joined the Gloucestershire Regiment in 1914, but afterwards deserted and joined the Yorkshire & Lancashire Regiment. From that he was discharged to the Army Reserve. Therefore, not only was he not entitled to the decorations he was wearing, but he had no right even to be in uniform. The only decoration he was entitled to wear was one chevron and one wound stripe. Capt Towse said the authorities looked upon the offence as a very serious one and asked for the full penalty of imprisonment.

The prisoner pleaded guilty to the charge and admitted previous convictions at Birmingham, Gloucester and Cambridge for house-breaking and theft for which he had served terms of 9 months, 12 months and 3 months respectively. He was now sentenced to six months hard labour.

This was from the Echo�s report of September 5, 1918�it seems that there really is nothing new under the sun. I wonder how Mr Day would have coped with hard labour...?

London Coin Fair

Phil Mussell — 01/02/2010 11:41:00

Don't forget the London Coin Fair on Saturday....!

This will be the first one under its new owners Mike and Lu Veissid - but don't panic, Mike and Lu are well versed in running Coin Fairs - they are the organisers of the monthly Birmingham show at the Motorcycle Museum - so everything should go smoothly...!

Apart from the organisers nothing else has changed - it's still at the Holiday Inn, Bloomsbury, still starts at half nine, still promise to be one of the best shows on the calendar and still features us! Yes we'll be there with the BRAND NEW Krause 1801-1900. If we have any left by then that is!

See you Saturday

THOMSON, RODDICK & MEDCALF - OCTOBER 23, 2009

Phil Mussell — 30/01/2010 09:00:00

Market scene October - December 2009

The sheer number of sales in October, November and December 2009 means that we aren't able to accommodate full reports for each within the pages of MEDAL NEWS therefore we have highlights within the magazine with the full reports appearing here:

Thomson Roddick & Medcalf, the Carlisle auctioneers, included a smaller number than usual (46) of medal or medal-related lots in their October sale in Shaddongate.

An impressive group comprised Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath, Crimea Medal clasp Sebastopol, Turkish Crimea, Jubilee Medal 1887 to Lt John Ommanney Hopkins, RN [524]; the catalogue provided brief biographical details, including the fact that he was promoted Admiral in 1896, and was at one time C-in-C of the American and West Indies, and later the Mediterranean, Fleets. This easily beat the top estimate of £2,500 to reach £4,025 (including buyers’ premium of 15 per cent).

Among the World War I lots was a Military Medal (GV), British War & Victory Medals to (Sgt) R. C. Bourhill, 52/King’s Regiment [501]. Presented in a wooden frame with a photograph, the medals were, unusually, accompanied by a document setting out the impressive citation for his gallantry on September 1, 1918. This was not enough, however, to ensure that the lot met its lower estimate of £800, and it sold for £750 (hammer, £863 in total). Even more interesting was Lot 541, which was catalogued as a BWM & VM pair to Lt P. Broatch, 23/Northumberland Fusiliers, who was recorded as having been awarded the Military Cross in 1917. It was estimated at £50–80, but the Military Cross came to light after the catalogue was printed; it was sold with the pair, and the lot made £1,495. Territorial Force War Medals, even as singles, are usually popular, and the medal to Pte W. Barton, Wiltshire Regiment [518], realised the top estimate of £150 (hammer, £173 in all). Probably the most impressive sale of the day in relative terms was the 1914–15 Star Trio, Scroll and Memorial Plaque to Pte William Henry Wilson, 11/Border Regiment, who was killed on July 1, 1916 [544]. This battalion was recruited mainly from the Westmoreland area, and the lot was therefore a local group for TRM, so the estimate of £200–300 was surely a misjudgement. 1914–15 Star Trios to First Day of the Somme fatal casualties have been selling for £450–500, and this lot was bid up to £1,093; it was an exceptional price, but probably reflected the unusual completeness of medals, plaque and scroll, and the local connection.

An attractive World War II group consisting of General Service Medal 1918 clasp Palestine, 1939–45/Africa/Italy Stars, Defence & War Medals (MiD), Croix de Guerre, Dunkirk Medal, to Tpr H. L. Turrell, 11th Hussars [514]. As the group was mounted as worn, it appeared to be worthy of detailed research (neither the MiD nor the Croix de Guerre was catalogued with an award date), but it did not appeal hugely to the bidders, achieving no more than £190 (hammer, £219 in all) against a bottom estimate of £240. The same fate met the Queen’s Korea and UN Korea pair to J. E. Brown, SM RN [510], which had a lower estimate of £120, but which was knocked down at £95 (£110 in all).

Lockdales November15 2009

Phil Mussell — 30/01/2010 09:00:00

Market scene October - December 2009

Sale number 75 from Lockdales included a medals and militaria section comprising 354 lots, of which 181 were medal or medal-related lots.

The sale included two Waterloo Medals which were interesting for different reasons. The medal to Robert Hill, 1/52nd Foot [Lot 1291], just beat its top estimate of £1,900 to make £2,345 (including the buyer’s premium of 17.25 per cent), in spite of his entitlement to an absent seven-clasp Military General Service Medal. The other Waterloo Medal [1293] was clearly catalogued as “renamed” to “Wm Walker, 43’d Reg’t Volunteers”; with a top estimate of £350, it sold, amazingly, for £516.

Unusually, several lots of apparently attractive Victorian medals failed to sell, despite having realistic estimates, but others achieved good results, one of which was the Crimea Medal with four clasps, Long Service Medal and Turkish Crimea Medal to Thomas Griffiths [1179]; the Crimea Medal was catalogued as “neatly and contemporarily engraved in upright serif capitals” to him in the 13th Light Dragoons; the Long Service Medal was impressed to 18th Hussars. The catalogue recorded that this group was last auctioned at Spink (April 2007, when it sold for £2,400 hammer). Clearly the successful bidder was convinced of the genuineness of the medals, and of Griffiths as a “Charger”, paying the bottom estimate of £3,000 (hammer, £3,518 in total). Another good Victorian lot that found a buyer was an Indian Mutiny Medal with clasps Lucknow, Relief Of Lucknow, to George Reynolds, 1/23rd Fusiliers [1173]; although it did not make its bottom estimate of £450, it got as far as £420 (hammer, £492 altogether). A South Africa Medal 1877 clasp 1879 to Pte J. Clarke, 2/4th Foot [1248], appeared to have a high estimate at £420–430, but it was bought for £425 hammer (£498 in all). An 1882 Egypt Medal and Khedive’s Star pair awarded to Leading Seaman H. Walters, HMS Inconstant, in NEF condition [1100], sold for the bottom estimate of £200 (£235 in total). A well researched group comprised Lot 1106: Queen’s South Africa Medal clasps Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Transvaal (Pte, 1/Suffolk Regiment) and 1914–15 Star (Pte, Essex Regiment) to George Fleming; sold with a variety of ephemera and documentation it easily beat its top estimate of £250 to realise £352. A single QSA clasps Cape Colony, Orange Free State to Pte J. Carter, 2/Grenadier Guards [1220], who was wounded at Senekal, came in mid-estimate at £135 (hammer, £158 with premium).Yet another QSA with clasps Cape Colony, Wepener, Transvaal, Wittebergen appeared in this sale, named Edmund Keighley, 1/Brabants Horse [1216]; several QSAs with these clasps have been on the market in the last year, the most recent being to ORC W. Harrington, Brabant’s Horse, which achieved £380 (hammer) at Bosleys in September, and to Pte J. J. Cronin, Cape Mounted Rifles, which made £360 (hammer) at Bonhams in July. Keighley’s medal, with a top estimate of £320, sold for £380 (hammer, £446 in total), confirming the market price for these relatively scarce medals.

As usual, Lockdales offered a large number of diverse World War I lots. There is still a strong market for even single medals to fatal casualties of World War I, and this was exemplified by the British War Medal to John Brown, 1/Black Watch, who was killed in action in October 1914 [1055]; with a top estimate of £35 it made as much as £53. 1914 Star & Bar Trios are even more popular, as witnessed by Lot 1200, to Arthur Archer, a reservist in 1/Northamptonshire Regiment, killed in January 1915; the top estimate was £225, but it achieved £270. Lot 1007 was an attractive 1914–15 Star Trio to 2/Lt C. Bellamy, 2/King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry (Pte, Rifle Brigade on the Star); Bellamy was commissioned in December 1917, and was also stated to have served in the Royal Air Force. Worthy of much more research, this group sold mid-estimate for £115 (hammer, £135 in total). Another 1914–15 Star Trio, this time to the Royal Navy and with a service record, was awarded to A. G. Barton [1019]; it reached the bottom estimate of £75 (hammer, £88 in all). A really fine and researchable British War & Victory Medal pair, Memorial Plaque and Scroll, was awarded to Job Munford, 1/Essex Regiment, who was killed in April 1917 [1066]; he came from Shelfanger (north of Diss), Norfolk, almost local for Lockdales, and the top estimate of £150 was easily overtaken with the successful bidder paying £235. Another fatal casualty group to beat its top estimate (of £250) was the 1914–15 Star Trio and Scroll to Frank Emms, 1/5th North Staffordshire Regiment [1199], who was killed in April 1916; together with various documents and ephemera it was bid up to £317. The BWM/VM pair and Medaille de la Rheine Elisabeth to VAD M. Kirkham [1307] was accompanied by a photograph album of wounded soldiers, and cleared its top estimate of £200 to sell for £363.

An intriguing group comprised 1914–15 Star Trio (Pte, 18th Hussars), India General Service Medal 1908 clasp North West Frontier 1930–31 (S-Sgt, IASC) and Indian Army Long Service Medal (Sub-Conductor) to F. Berry [1154]. The intriguing aspect was the inclusion in the lot of a group of miniatures which included 1939–45/Africa Stars, India Service Medal and War Medal. Together with a great deal of supporting documentation, the lot easily beat its top estimate of £250 to reach £399. Lot 1194 was worthy of much greater research, connecting as it did the two World Wars; it was awarded to William Joseph Jarvis, and consisted of 1914–15 Star Trio, Long Service Medal (HMS Marlborough), Naval Good Shooting Medal (HMS Bonaventure), 1939–45/Atlantic Stars, War Medal (as well as three Chatham Port Shooting medals). The lot included a service record, and although the medals were polished, the successful bidder had to pay £492 against a top estimate of £400.

A World War II group comprising 1939–45 Star, Defence & War Medals, Efficiency Medal clasp Territorial (GVI), Dunkirk Medal, King Albert 1 FRVRA–KVVKA Veterans’ Medal (Belgium) was awarded to William Alfred Bright, RA [1097); although the catalogue recorded that the group was accompanied by research, the top estimate of £90 was presumably low as the medals were polished, but the lot was bid up to £164, clearly a desirable buy even in this condition.

Of the post-war medals, a General Service Medal 1962 clasp Northern Ireland to L/Cpl S. C. Harris, Queen’s Lancashire Regiment [1086], possibly because of its edge knock, failed to reach its bottom estimate of £65, making £60 (hammer, £70 in all). Similarly an unusual (and unresearched) GSM 1918 with clasps Palestine 1945–48, Cyprus to Gunner F. Wiles, RA [1158], also achieved its bottom estimate of £75 (£88 total).

There was very little gallantry material in this sale, but the Military Medal and 1914 Star Trio to T/Sgt H. Barrell, 54/F Coy RE [1185], catalogued as in mint condition, and unresearched apart from the London Gazette date, was bid up to a mid-estimate of £450 (hammer, £528 altogether).

Spink November 19 2009

Phil Mussell — 30/01/2010 09:00:00

Market scene October - December 2009

Spink auction “Sherrishitti 9033” began with a section of gallantry medals, of which Lot 1 was a real bang: the Victoria Cross group to F/Lt William Reid, RAFVR (1921–2001), comprising the Cross, 1939–45/Air Crew Europe Stars, War Medal, Coronation 1953, Jubilee 1977. He won his Cross for superb courage and leadership in 61 Squadron; his Lancaster was crippled by two fighter attacks during a raid on Dusseldorf on November 3, 1943. Although wounded and with his windscreen smashed, he succeeded in dropping his bombs, and eventually piloted the aircraft back to the UK, an incredible feat of skill and determination. He was later transferred to 617 Squadron, and on a raid near Rheims on July 31, 1944 a bomb from another aircraft dropped on his, splitting it in two, and he baled out, ending up as a prisoner of war. The selling price was clearly going to be high, but it reached an astonishing £290,000 hammer, £348,000 including the buyer’s premium of 20 per cent. It has been reported that the purchaser was Melissa John, who bought the group in memory of her late brother, Christopher John, a collector of Royal Air Force medals, whose ambition was to own a Victoria Cross.

Lot 2 was almost a Victoria Cross group, but the VC was a copy, as was the South Africa Medal 1877, but the Queen’s South Africa Medal clasps Cape Colony, South Africa 1902, named for Francis Fitzpatrick, VC, Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders was genuine. Fitzpatrick (1859–1933) had been awarded his Cross when he was in the 94th Foot for saving the life of an officer in the attack on Sekukuni’s Town, November 1879. He sold his original pair sometime before 1906 (these medals are now held by the National Army Museum), but was known to wear this particular trio in later life in Belfast, which, estimated at £4,000–6,000, made £5,500 (hammer, £6,600 in total). The splendid group awarded to Lt-Gen James Conolly (1818–85) [Lot 4], who distinguished himself in the charge of the Heavy Brigade at Balaklava, comprised Commander of the Bath, Crimea Medal clasps Balaklava, Inkermann, Sebastopol (named Cavalry Staff), French Legion d’Honneur, Turkish Order of the Medidjie, Turkish Crimea. Conolly was a Captain at the time of the charge and was General Scarlett’s Brigade-Major; having been ordered by Scarlett to bring up reinforcements, Conolly managed to attach himself to a troop of the Inniskillings, and took part in the action. The group reached its bottom estimate of £6,000 (hammer, £7,200 in total). Another superb group comprised Order of St Michael & St George; India General Service Medal 1854 clasp Hazara 1888, India Medal 1895 clasp Punjab Frontier 1897–98, QSA clasps Cape Colony, Transvaal, Wittebergen, King’s South Africa Medal two clasps, 1914–15 Star Trio (MiD), Delhi Durbar 1911 [6], named for Colonel Thomas Daly, RAMC (1861–1917). Daly had a steady career in the medical service up to the time he was drowned when the Arcadian was torpedoed in the Aegean. This lot was bid up to £2,760 against a top estimate of £2,000. A really well researched group to the RNAS/RAF consisted of Order of the British Empire, Officer’s Breast Badge, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Force Cross, 1914–15 Star Trio (MiD), War Medal, 1935 Jubilee to Albert William Fletcher [10]. Fletcher earned his DFC in the Kronstadt Raid in August 1919, and his AFC for his work at the Airship Station East Fortune. The lot included a large number of documents, including log books and various certificates, and although the medals were catalogued as “cleaned”, the successful bidder had to pay £15,000 (top estimate £5,500). A unique group of Distinguished Conduct Medal (V), Queen’s Sudan Medal, Queen’s South Africa Medal clasps Cape Colony, Tugela Heights, Orange Free State, Relief of Ladysmith, Transvaal, Laing’s Nek, Long Service Medal (EVII), Khedive’s Sudan was awarded to William John Jack, Middlesex Regiment [19]. He was a Divisional Staff Sergeant when awarded the DCM for Omdurman (mentioned in Kitchener’s Despatch), and he was also mentioned in a despatch from Lord Roberts for the part he played at Alleman’s Nek. Perhaps the condition of the medals (lacquered, contact marks) kept the bidding to no more than the bottom estimate of £4,500 (hammer, £5,400 altogether). Although it beat its higher estimate of £1,000, the DCM (GV), 1914–15 Star Trio, Defence Medal to John Alfred Howard, 8/East Surrey Regiment [23], looked as though it should have made more. Howard’s DCM (awarded for bravery in March 1916 when he was a Sergeant) had a good fighting citation, he was wounded on July 1, 1916, and he was a Home Guard officer in World War II, but the lot reached no more than £1,800. A lot that made as much as some Victoria Cross groups might achieve was awarded to Melvill Keith Townsend. Another unique DCM (for Dhofar), it comprised the DCM (EII) (Royal Signals), General Service Medal 1962 clasps Northern Ireland, Dhofar (Royal Signals), South Atlantic Medal (with rosette) (Royal Signals [SAS]), UN Cyprus Medal, Accumulated Campaign Service Medal (Captain, WFR). Melvill won his DCM for his gallantry in the Sherrishitti battle in Western Dhofar, and this was well written up in the catalogue. Intriguingly, a second (replacement) medal group was sold with the lot, Melvill’s original medals having been reported stolen, but then returned to him. It easily beat its top estimate of £60,000 to achieve £120,000. The following lot [26] was another superb group: Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (Flying), 1939–45/Atlantic Stars, War Medal to Harold Arthur Corbin, RAFVR. Corbin was a Coastal Command Mosquito pilot who flew 42 operational sorties, and was finally shot down over France (Caterpillar Club badge included with the medals). Together with his log book and two photographs, the lot had a top estimate of £14,000, but eventually sold for £20,400.

The Campaign Groups and Pairs section of the sale was no less attractive. An unusual but interesting group [51] to Alfred Prendergast (1855–1930) comprised South Africa Medal 1877 clasp 1879 (Lt, Lonsdales Horse), Cape Of Good Hope General Service Medal 1880 clasp Basutoland (Corporal, Natal Mounted Police), QSA clasp Natal (Inspector, Natal Police), and Natal Medal 1906 with clasp (Major, Natal Police); before he died in Durban he had been appointed a Justice of the Peace. This lot appealed hugely to the successful bidder who had to pay £2,640 to take it away (top estimate £850). As at Lockdales, Spinks offered a QSA with clasps Cape Colony, Wepener, Wittebergen, and KSA (two clasps) to Brabant’s Horse [65]; these clasps appear now to be relatively common, as several examples have appeared in the last year. This lot, to Sgt R. W. Meiring, made the top estimate of £400 (hammer, £480 in total), compared with the example at Lockdales which made £380 hammer. A very collectable group with research potential was awarded to Alfred Griffiths, Essex Regiment [67], consisting of QSA clasps Orange Free State, Transvaal, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902, Africa General Service Medal clasp Somaliland 1902–04, British War & Victory Medals. These were displayed with several shooting medals, and accompanied by his record of service booklet and certificate. Like the group to Prendergast, this soared above its top estimate of £350, to be knocked down for £1,320. One of the highest achieving lots of the sale appeared in this section, and that was Lot 79, which also exemplified how difficult it is to estimate with any accuracy groups containing Russian awards. Telegraphist Ernest Stuart Charles Holt, a member of the crew of HM Submarine E13 on its way to the Baltic, was one of 15 sailors killed in cold blood by a German motor torpedo boat on August 19, 1915; he was awarded the Cross of St George 4th Class. Added to his 1914–15 Star Trio and Memorial Plaque, this was bid up to £13,800 (top estimate £1,800).

The section of single campaign medals was equally exciting. Lot 124 set the scene: a Naval General Service Medal 1793 clasps Egypt, Martinique, to the man who was to become Admiral of the White Sir Thomas John Cochrane KCB (1789–1872), one of Britain’s best-known sailors (Captain on the medal). A 12-year-old Midshipman in 1801, by 1809 he was Captain of the Ethalion. Unsurprisingly this fascinating piece of history achieved £9,600 (top estimate £5,000). As only one of six Army of India Medals with clasps Allighur, Laswarree, Capture Of Deig, Lot 129 to G. Hunter, 29th Light Dragoons, sold for an expected mid-estimate £5,500 (hammer, £6,600 altogether).Considering the historical context of the recipient, the Waterloo Medal to Ensign (later Colonel) Thomas Josiah Wedgwood, 2/3rd Guards [132], was remarkably bereft of research (he was grandson of the Josiah Wedgwood, and cousin of Charles Darwin); the lot clearly surprised the estimator by selling for £7,200 (top estimate £3,200). A pleasing Indian Mutiny Medal [146] named to Captain (later Lt-Col) Toovey Archibald Corbett, 61st Native Infantry (1826–1918), was accompanied by useful research, including the information that at the time of his death he was one of the last few Mutiny survivors, and it sold for £600 (top estimate £380). A medal with very little research potential easily beat its top estimate of £1,400: an East & West Africa Medal clasp Uganda 1899 [160] to Charles Edward de Vere Beauclerk, KRRC (1875–1900). This young man was commissioned in 1894, and lost his life in east Africa, attached to the Uganda Militia, as a result of blackwater fever, having served militarily for only a few weeks in the Wakedi Field Force. It made enough of an impact to relieve the successful bidder of £2,760. Lot 193 was catalogued as rare: it was one of the 106 no clasp KSAs to Army Service Corps staff, in this case Conductor K. Henry. With no additional research, it reached the top estimate of £220 (hammer, £264 in all). Yet another Tibet Medal to the Royal Fusiliers turned up in this sale, but this lot [197] was rather special, named for Major Steuart Menzies. With very little research, but with a plaid brooch, a seal and a portrait photograph of the recipient, it made £1,620 against a rather conservative top estimate of £800. Even single Memorial Plaques, if named for aircrew, have sold well recently, and such was the case with the Plaque to Charles James Cameron Sheridan [218]; with enough research to establish his death while flying, it achieved £264 against a very conservative top estimate of £80. An unresearched MiD oakleaf (apart from the London Gazette reference) on a General Service Medal 1918 clasp Malaya to S-Sgt A. M. E. Hoare, REME helped the lot to sell for £780, when the top estimate was only £240. In contrast, a lot which looked as though it should have done better than it did was the South Atlantic Medal (with rosette) to Lance-Corporal Doug Padgett, RAMC [228], who served with 16th Field Ambulance in the Falklands, and was on the Sir Galahad when it was bombed. Even though his very emotional account of what he did on that occasion was published in the catalogue, the lot failed to reach its bottom estimate of £1,400, making no more than £1,200 (hammer, £1,440 altogether).

A miniature medal group that looked as though it had actually been worn by the recipient [233] was attributed to Colonel Solomon Charles Frederick Peile (1855–1932). The group consisted of Companion of the Order of the Indian Empire, Delhi Durbar 1903, Second Afghan War Medal, India General Service medal clasps Burma 1885–7, Burma 1887–9, Burma 1889–92, Chin Hills 1892–93, King’s Police Medal (GV). Although it had a top estimate of £250, the successful bidder had to pay £660 to secure it.

Lot 249 was extremely interesting for its associations: Voluntary Medical Service Medal to Lady Carola Mary Anima Lenanton (1897–1978), who was the daughter of Sir Charles Oman (well-known historian and numismatist), and who achieved her own fame as a successful novelist and county President for the Hertfordshire British Red Cross Society. The top estimate of £35 was easily overtaken, the lot being knocked down for £204.

Morton and Eden November 30 2009

Phil Mussell — 30/01/2010 09:00:00

Market scene October - December 2009

This sale (catalogue 40) was, like Gaul, divided into three parts, only the third of which (Lots 1280–1398) offered British orders, decorations and medals. This part of the sale opened with a very attractive and unusual Naval General Service Medal 1793 [Lot 1280], with three clasps Egypt, Trafalgar, Basque Roads, to Stephen Hilton (1785–1872). Described on the medal as Master’s Mate, he joined the Royal Navy as a ten-year-old volunteer, and ended his naval career as Commander; the catalogue, recorded that he served on Minotaur at Trafalgar. Estimated at £8,000–12,000, it achieved £9,000 (hammer, £10,350 including buyers’ premium of 15 per cent). A theme of this sale was that several medals were awarded to medical personnel, and one of these was the Military General Service Medal clasp Sahagun & Benevente to Assistant Surgeon Thomas B. Davis, 7th Light Dragoons [1282]; although Davis had a very short career of only two months in the Peninsula, and although the medal was catalogued as “cleaned”, the lot was bid up to £3,220 (against a top estimate of £2,000). The medal of another Assistant Surgeon, Thomas Batt, 2nd Foot (1782–1848), had clasps Vimiera, Fuentes D’Onor, and his career was researched in some detail, showing that he was one of only two men of 2nd Foot to receive the Fuentes clasp; despite this, but perhaps because the medal was catalogued as “polished”, the lot [1285] made no more than the bottom estimate of £1,500 (hammer, £1,725 in all). An intriguing MGSM [1288] with clasps Maida, Talavera, Busaco to Sgt Thomas Butler, 61st Foot, was catalogued with a report from the Commanding Officer of 2/61st, recording that Butler was wounded and captured at Talavera, but escaped and returned to his unit; the successful bidder paid £1,800 (hammer, £2,070 in all) against an estimate of £1,500–2,000. Two outstanding medals to men of the 88th Foot (a unit described by Arthur Bryant as “a tough crowd from the bogs of western Ireland with a bad reputation for filching Portuguese chickens and goats”) made the best prices in this part of the sale. The ten-clasp medal (Talavera to Toulouse) awarded to Samuel Langsdale [1297], even without research, was bid up to £4,600 against a top estimate of £2,800, and the same estimate was easily beaten by the ten-clasp medal [Busaco to Orthes] to John Walsh [1298], which achieved £5,290.

There were 14 single Waterloo Medals on offer, all very collectable in their own way. The best price was realised by the medal to Captain Henry Andrews, 12th Light Dragoons [1301], for which the successful bidder had to pay £4,830 (top estimate £3,000). The medal of yet another Assistant Surgeon, William George Burrell, 1/79th Foot [1305], also exceeded expectation, making £4,140 (top estimate £3,000). The price achieved for the medal of Edward Gardiner, 2/73rd Foot [1305] at £1,840, even though it was catalogued as polished and it beat its top estimate of £1,100, was perhaps disappointing for the vendor compared with the medal to James Carr, of the same regiment, which made £3,565 (including premium) at Warwick & Warwick on February 11, 2009. There were four MGS/Waterloo pairs on offer, possibly the most attractive of which was awarded to James Staples, 7th Light Dragoons/Hussars [1318]; the MGS had clasps Orthes, Toulouse, he was wounded at Waterloo, and the catalogue included interesting research. This lot was bid up to £5,060 (top estimate £3,000). An Army of India Medal clasps Asseeghur, Argaum, Gawilghur/MGSM clasp Fuentes D’Onor pair to Alexander Liston, 94th Foot [1315] still sold for £11,270 (top estimate £9,000), although the MGS had the rank “Sergeant” neatly engraved on it, and the pair was not in the best condition.

A superb group of Sutlej Medal 1845 with Ferozeshuhur reverse and clasp Sobraon (Surgeon, 29th Foot), India General Service Medal 1854 clasp Pegu (Surgeon, 80th Foot), Crimea and Turkish Crimea (both un-named) was awarded to Doctor John Robert Taylor CB [1322], who started his Army career before 1837, and ended as Inspector General of Hospitals and an honorary surgeon to the Queen. It overtook its top estimate of £1,000 to achieve £1,840. An interesting single medal was the South Africa Medal 1877 clasp 1879 to Pte G. Rowley, 94th Foot [1330], a victim of the Boer ambush at Bronkhorstspruit, December 1880; although the clasp had brooch-mounting, the lot made £805 (top estimate £600). This was immediately followed by Lot 1331, a Second Afghan War Medal to 2/Lt Edwin Christy, who was accidentally killed at Rawalpindi in 1880; this more than doubled its £300 top estimate to make £863.

An intriguing British War & Victory Medal with Coronation Medal 1911 [1343] to Victor Alexander Charles Harbord, Scots Guards (1897–1943), was estimated at £300–400; accompanied by research confirming that there was no missing Star, it came in at £360 (hammer, £414 with premium). For collectors of Indian material Lot 1347, comprising BWM/VM pair, Territorial Force War Medal, Indian General Service Medal 1908 clasp Afghanistan NWF 1919 to Harvey Allen, 4/Devons and 2/Somerset Light Infantry was very attractive; the lot was accompanied by a large number of postcards with photographs of India, and some of a more personal nature to his fiancée. Estimated rather high at £300–400, it nonetheless came in at £320 (hammer, £368 in all). One of the modern lots in the sale was 1357: GSM 1962 clasp Northern Ireland/South Atlantic pair to Pte C. P. Stewart, 3/Para, estimated at £1,500–2,000; even with no research at all this lot made £1,600 (hammer, £1,840 in all). A superb group was awarded to (Sgt) G. A. Powell, RA [1362], consisting of GSM 1962 clasp Northern Ireland, South Atlantic Medal with rosette, UN Cyprus Medal, First Gulf War Medal with clasp and rosette, Long Service Medal (EII). Totally unresearched, this group sold for the top estimate of £900 (hammer, £1,035 in all).

A very attractive group [1368] to the Indian MedIcal Service was awarded to Lt-Col Henry Warwick Illius (1875–1941), and comprised Companion’s Neck Badge of the Order of the Indian Empire, India Medal 1895 clasp Waziristan 1901–02, Tibet Medal with clasp, 1914–15 Star Trio, GSM 1918 clasp Iraq(MiD) [1368]. The catalogue gave a brief appreciation of his extensive military service, but the lot failed to reach the bottom estimate of £2,500, selling for £2,400 (hammer, £2,760 in all). Proving once again the attraction of gallantry, the Distinguished Conduct Medal (GV) and 1914–15 Star Trio awarded to L/Sgt J. Stone, 7/Yorkshire Light Infantry [1392], even with no research apart from a fine fighting citation from November 1916, was bid up to £2,530 (top estimate £1,500). The same trend was followed by the following lot [1393], a Military Medal (GV) and 1914–15 Star Trio to L/Cpl J. Maguire, 11/Royal Fusiliers (Finsbury Rifles), catalogued without research, but with a condition of “extremely fine or better”. The top estimate of £350 was easily beaten, with the lot achieving £575.

Bosleys December 2 2009

Phil Mussell — 30/01/2010 09:00:00

Market scene October - December 2009

Bosleys offered 121 lots of orders, decorations and medals in their December sale, and the eclectic mix remained the same.

Sometimes it is interesting to see how a superficially unattractive lot can sell well. The China War Medal 1842 to Sgt T. Patterson, 26th Foot [Lot 468], was catalogued as “fitted with a replacement suspension bar and evidence of brooch marks. Edge knocks”, and its top estimate of £100 reflected this; however, the successful bidder was prepared to pay £150 (including buyer’s premium of 15 per cent) for it. An enigmatic group [536] which appealed to the room comprised Crimean War Medal clasp Sebastopol, South Africa Medal 1877 (without clasp), Turkish Crimea Medal to Randall Ironside Ward, Royal Navy and 90th Foot. Ward served as a Midshipman on Hannibalin the Crimea, later transferring to the Army, and becoming (as a Captain) the only officer of his regiment to receive the medal without clasp during the Zulu War. The top estimate of £1,200 was beaten, the lot achieving £1,438. A small collection of Indian Mutiny Medals to the 90th Light Infantry included a medal with clasps Lucknow, Defence Of Lucknow to Samuel Juniper [533]; the estimate of £600–800 looked on the high side, but it reached the lower figure (£690 altogether). Another Mutiny Medal [535] with similar clasps, to Jonas Harper, 84th Foot, an original defender of the Residency and a survivor of the campaign, was bid up to £1,955 against a top estimate of £1,000. Certain Scottish regiments saw extensive service in Egypt and the Sudan, and the four-clasp Egypt Medal (Tel-El-Kebir, Suakin 1884, El Teb Tamaai, The Nile 1884–85) to Robert Malcolm, Gordon Highlanders [506] exemplified this, beating the top estimate of £400 to reach £575. The Gordons featured again with a fine campaign trio [504]: India Medal clasps Relief Of Chitral, Punjab Frontier 1897–98, Tirah 1897–98, Queen’s South Africa Medal clasps Elandslaagte, Defence Of Ladysmith, Transvaal, Laing’s Nek, Cape Colony, Orange Free State, King’s South Africa Medal with two clasps to Pte A. Hendry; with no research at all, and estimated at £500, this highly researchable lot sold at £633. The East & West Africa Medal clasp Juba River 1893 [516] to H. Singer, Ordinary Seaman, HMS Blanche, was obviously a desirable lot (the catalogue recorded only 42 of these clasps having been awarded), but it reached only its bottom estimate of £1,500 (hammer, £1,725 in all). A very researchable lot [455] was the South Africa/World War I group awarded to Robert Street, comprising Queen’s South Africa Medal clasps Cape Colony, Paardeberg, Driefontein, Transvaal, Wittebergen, King’s South Africa Medal two clasps (Pte, Seaforth Highlanders), 1914–15 Star Trio (Pte, Royal Fusiliers); with no research apart from a Medal Index Card showing that he served with the 25/Royal Fusiliers and 8/London Regiment, it had a top estimate of £300, and sold at £391.

Fatal casualty groups to officers killed in World War I have always been a popular collecting theme, and so it proved with the 1914–15 Star Trio and Plaque to (Lt) The Honourable Philip Granville Jones Fitzalan Howard, Welsh Guards [503], who died of wounds in May 1918; once again, the estimator was taken by surprise, setting the upper estimate at £600 while the successful bidder paid £2,300. A 1914–15 Star Trio with a General Service Medal 1918 clasp N.W.Persia awarded to Pte C. Revill, York & Lancaster Regiment [463] reached its top estimate of £150 (hammer, £173 in total).

Within this sale was a mini-collection of 20 lots consisting of medals to women, overwhelmingly connected with the nursing services. A remarkable lot of British War & Victory Medals [488] to Driver S. M. Hext, FANYC, was catalogued as “a scarce pair”; apparently Hext worked in France from June 1918 to April 1919, one of no more than 120 members of the Field Ambulance Nursing Yeomanry working with the Red Cross in August 1918. With a top estimate of £120, it eventually sold for £575. On a rather more modest level, the BWM/VM pair and GSM 1918 clasp Iraq to Staff Nurse A. Steel [491] was catalogued with a small amount of research, but this appealed to the bidders, achieving £575 against a top estimate of £300. The most interesting lot in this little collection was 499, Royal Red Cross 1st Class, Queen’s & King’s South Africa Medals without clasps to (Matron) Frances Rosa Holmes. She earned the South Africa medals at Hospitals in Cape Town and Bloemfontein, and was still serving when she landed in France in August 1914 (the trio was not included in the lot), earning her ARRC award in June 1917 as Acting Matron, 6/General Hospital. With a realistic top estimate of £600, it nevertheless came in at £863.

A World War II group [548] struck a chord with the room, and the successful bidder had to pay £633 for the Indian General Service Medal 1936 clasp North West Frontier 1936–37, GSM 1918 clasp Palestine, 1939–45/Africa/Italy Stars, Defence & War Medals to Pte E. E. Hodges, South Wales Borderers, which had a top estimate of no more than £300.

An item catalogued as rare was the Long Service Medal (EII) with clasp Gibraltar to Cpl M. Sene [445]; the top estimate of £300 was overtaken easily with the lot reaching £518.

Of the gallantry medals in this sale, and of the sale altogether, the biggest price was made by the group to Squadron-Leader Jozef Jeka, a Polish airman who joined the RAF in February 1940, and whose group [500] comprised Virtuti Militari 5th Class, Cross of Valour (two clasps), Air Force Medal, 1939–45/Air Crew Europe Stars, War Medal. Included with the lot was a large number of documents and ephemera, and the catalogue recorded extensive biographical details about Jeka’s wartime and subsequent service (apparently he was killed in 1958 flying clandestinely for the United States CIA). The top estimate of £8,000 looked realistic, but the lot was bid up to an astonishing £35,650. The second highest seller was another gallantry group: Conspicuous Gallantry Medal, Distinguished Conduct Medal, 1914–15 Star Trio to (Chief Petty Officer) Joseph James Reed, RN (1887–1923). His DSM was awarded for the Ostend raid in April 1918, and the CGM for the Zeebrugge raid in May 1918. The medals were accompanied by “a quantity of research”, including a framed photograph of the recipient, and this time the estimate of £20,000–25,000 was very accurate, as the lot [542] sold for £21,000 (hammer, £24,150 in total). Another DSM for the Zeebrugge raid was awarded to Stoker William Carter on Vindictive; he was wounded during the raid but survived. His DSM and 1914–15 Star Trio was bid up to £2,070, beating the £1,500 top estimate. World War II gallantry groups can usually be relied on to sell well, even though they sometimes lack an officially named medal, such as Lot 511, which comprised a Member of the British Empire badge (civil), Military Cross (privately engraved), 1939–45/Burma Stars, Defence & War Medals to (Major) Peter W. Burton, 5/16 Punjab Regiment. There was a fine fighting citation for the MC, which was recommended in April 1944 for his contribution to the action at Buthidaung, but the estimate of £1,800–2,200 was too much for the room, and the lot sold for no more than £1,500 (hammer, £1,725).

DNW December 2 2009

Phil Mussell — 30/01/2010 09:00:00

Market scene October - December 2009

The sale began with “A Collection Of Medals To The Indian Army, The Property Of A Retired Indian Army Officer” (Lots 1–97); unusually the anonymous vendor contributed a short introduction to the sale, which contained many delightful medals. One of these was the China Medal 1842 to Assistant Surgeon J. McIntosh, 2nd Madras Native Infantry [Lot 17]; with minimal research, it reached its bottom estimate of £500 (hammer, £600 including buyers’ premium of 20 per cent). An intriguing Indian Mutiny Medal clasps Delhi, Relief Of Lucknow, Lucknow to Sowar Punjab Sing [sic], 1st Regiment of Hodson’s Horse [27], had a top estimate of £1,200, but, because of its rarity, sold for a magnificent £4,080. A Queen’s South Africa Medal clasps Cape Colony, Orange Free State, Johannesburg to Sgt E. I. Lockhart, Lumsdens Horse [49], even with no catalogued research, appealed to the room to the tune of £384 (top estimate £140). A really impressive and well researched group [58] was awarded to a member of a famous family, (Lt-Col) Henry Lyell (1804–75), 43rd Bengal Light Infantry, comprising Candahar Ghuznee Cabul Medal 1842, Maharajpoor Star 1843, Sutlej 1845 Medal for “Sobraon”, where he was severely wounded. The top estimate of £1,800 was easily overtaken, the lot making £2,760. A very well received lot [95] was the Burma Gallantry Medal (GVI) group to Ambulance Sepoy Saw Tha Nyunt, who dived into a rapid of the Dhareswali River June 25, 1944, to save a comrade from drowning; the rest of the group (1939–45/Burma Star, War Medal) was un-named. The lot was bid up to £4,800 (top estimate £3,500).

The next section (Lots 98–133) was a collection of medals to the name “Lyon”. The first of these was awarded to (Captain) Kenneth Lyon (1886–1956), who ended his career as Under Secretary of State at the War Office during World War II, comprising CB, CBE (civil), BWM/VM (MiD), Defence Medal, Coronation 1911, Jubilee 1935, Coronation 1937, France Legion d’Honneur, and a medal named for him as Master of the Glass Sellers’ Company. A pre-World War I civil servant, Lyon served in the Royal Field Artillery 1916–19, subsequently resuming his civilian career. The top estimate was £1,000, and the successful bidder paid £1,320, a good deal less than the buyer of the group when it was sold at Morton & Eden, December 12, 2008, for £2,415. The medal group of Kenneth Lyon’s younger brother, Maurice, formed Lot 100: Distinguished Service Cross (GV), 1914–15 Star (AB, RN), British War & Victory Medals (MiD) (Major, RAF), Defence Medal, Order of the Nile 4th Class. His DSC (February 1917) was awarded for service with No 14 Kite Balloon Section in Mesopotamia, and his two Mentions were respectively for Mesopotamia (August 1917) and the Mediterranean (June 1919). The top estimate was £2,500, but the group was bid up to £3,600. A well-researched group appealing to a wide range of collectors was the 1914–15 Star Trio to Lt Walter Scott Stuart Lyon, 9/Royal Scots [112]. A pre-war Territorial, he was appointed Staff Captain to the Lothian Brigade at the outbreak of war, re-joining his battalion in March 1915; he was killed in action May 8, 1915. Although Lyon was catalogued as a war poet, the lot was given a conservative top estimate of £500, but it was a pleasant surprise for the vendor when it realised £1,680. An enigmatic lot with a large amount of research [127] was the British South Africa Company Medal 1890 with “Mashonaland 1897” reverse to Alfred Herbert Lyon (1873–1939), BSA Police. His career as catalogued indicated that he was also awarded a QSA Medal, British War & Victory Medals, and recorded that Lyon had applied for a replacement BSA Medal, which may never have been issued. The top estimate of £280 was just beaten as the lot sold for £360.

The third section was Single Campaign Medals (Lots 134–254), which opened with four Naval General Service Medals 1793, the most interesting of which [137] was the medal with clasps 14 March 1795, St Vincent, awarded to Able Seaman John Cameron, who served on HMS Captain for both engagements. With no research other than the medal roll, the lot had a top estimate of £5,000, but the successful bidder had to go to £10,200. In contrast, a superb Military General Service Medal clasp Maida [138] to Major William Smythe Plenderleith, who commanded the 81st Foot at the battle, surprisingly failed to reach the bottom estimate of £3,500, since the catalogue recorded a fascinating history surrounding Plenderleith’s conduct and leadership during the battle (July 4, 1806). It appears that some senior officer colleagues blackened his name, resulting in his not receiving the Gold Medal for the battle, and in his early retirement in June 1808. It went for £3,200 (hammer £3,840 with premium. The MGSM with clasps Martinique, Albuhera, Ciudad Rodrigo, Badajoz, Salamanca, Vittoria, Pyrenees, Nivelle, Orthes, Toulouse to John Roberts, 23rd Foot [147] was well researched, showing that Roberts was wounded at Badajoz, and was also entitled to a Waterloo Medal. The estimate of £4,000–5,000 was entirely realistic, if not conservative, considering that when the medal was sold at DNW in June 2006 it made £6,800 (hammer). This time it sold for £4,200 (hammer, £5,040 in total). This sale included six single Waterloo Medals, perhaps the most intriguing of which militarily was the medal to (Captain) Stephen Holmes, 78th Foot [151], a unique award to the regiment, (he was serving as a Brigade-Major in 6th Division). Holmes distinguished himself at Burgos in the Peninsula as an officer in the 24th Foot, but he died in 1839, and did not receive the MGS Medal. The top estimate of £8,000 was overtaken, and the lot realised £10,560. The Crimea Medal clasp Sebastopol to Lt-Col Thomas Bunbury Gough, 33rd Foot [165], was catalogued with basic career details, but was clearly worthy of much deeper research; he was severely wounded at the Alma, but survived to be wounded again at the September 8, 1855 assault on the Redan, dying ten days later of those wounds. The catalogue stated: “Although this medal is entirely as issued it should also have the clasp for Alma”. Just so, but this fact did not deter the bidders, one of whom paid £3,480 (top estimate £2,500). An intriguing Indian Mutiny Medal clasp Central India, to Sgt Michael Sharry, 88th Foot [170], surprisingly failed to stir the room enough to reach its lower estimate of £400, selling for £390 (hammer, £468 altogether), despite the fact that he was severely wounded in October 1858, and the lot begged for more research. The success of the Egypt Medal 1882 clasp Suakin 1885 to Cpl W. T. Marchant, Army Post Office Corps [187], clearly surprised the estimator, although the catalogue recorded that Cpl Marchant (who had the service number 5) came under fire at Kassassin in September 1882. The top estimate of £800 was soon left behind as the lot was bid up to £2,400. Hong Kong Plague Medals to the Shropshire Light Infantry [198] are always marketable, and this well researched example to William Humphreys was no exception; it had a top estimate of £1,200, but realised £1,920. A routine medal but with clear research potential [204] was the India Medal 1895 clasps Punjab Frontier 1897–98, Tirah 1897–98 to Pte G. Hartop, 1/Dorset Regiment, who was dangerously wounded by gunshot at Dargai in October 1897; it beat the top estimate of £350 to realise £444. A superb medal with even greater research potential was a QSA Medal with clasps Cape Colony, Tugela Heights, Orange Free State, Relief Of Ladysmith, Transvaal, Laing’s Nek, South Africa 1901 [223] to Captain Alexander Richard Mildmay, 3/KRRC; not only was this an unusual medal in the number of its clasps, but Mildmay (1873–1901) was Mentioned in Despatches twice and killed in action near Blood River Poort. A top estimate of £3,000 was in the right area for this numismatically and militarily appealing medal, which sold for £4,080. Of the post-war medals one that stood out was the General Service Medal 1962 clasp Lebanon to OEM1 A. V. G. Potts, RN, in box of issue [250]; the high top estimate of £650 was fully justified, as the lot, even with no research, was bid up to £936.

Then followed Single Orders and Decorations (Lots 255–280), of which one of the most attractive pieces was the Royal Red Cross 1st Class (unattributed) [280], estimated at £600; it clearly impressed the bidders, selling for £1,560.

Next came Long Service Medals etc (Lots 281–313), and the most appealing lot was the Royal Marine Meritorious Service Medal (V) (2nd Issue) to 1st Class S-Sgt John Downer, RMA [281], issued January 1889; although his Long Service Medal was missing, the lot beat its estimate of £700 to achieve £960.

Life Saving Awards came next (Lots 314–321), of which the most intriguing (and the most expensive) was the group to AB Robert Charles William Brown, Merchant Navy [315]. The group consisted of Sea Gallantry Medal (GV) (SS Usworth, 14 December 1934), 1939–45/Atlantic/Italy Stars, War Medal, Lloyds’ Medal for Saving Life at Sea, Liverpool Shipwreck & Humane Society Marine Medal, Shipwrecked Fishermen & Marines Royal Benevolent Society Medal, Life Saving Benevolent Association of New York Medal. All four of the life-saving medals were for the same event: the rescue by sailors of the SS Ascania (including Brown) and the Jean Jadot of survivors from the SS Usworth, severely damaged by a hurricane. The top estimate of £2,500 was in the right area, as the group realised £3,480.

After Ribbons from the Collection of Henry Pownall (Lots 322–360) came Miniature Medals (Lots 361–363). Lot 361 was a group of nine dress miniatures attributed to Major-General Stuart MacDonald, RAMC. The catalogue recorded that the full-size group and the miniatures were sold together at Spink in May, 2001, nevertheless this depleted lot made £312 (top estimate £140).

Miscellaneous (Lots 364–380) and Original Squadron Crests (Lots 381–397) were followed by World Orders and Decorations (Lots 398–428). Lot 398 was the group of 23 orders, decorations and medals awarded to Lt-Gen Maurice Robert Hector Delvoie, Belgian Army; of these 23, the 1939–45/France & Germany Stars, Defence & War Medals were British. The top estimate was £3,000, the lot made £5,280.

Militaria (Lots 429–445) and Books (Lots 446–453) were followed by Campaign Groups & Pairs (Lots 454–581), which opened [454] with a beautiful and unusual (unique?) group to Charles Stuart Campbell, CB (1779–1854). The group consisted of Field Officer’s Gold Medal for St Sebastian, MGS Medal with clasp Corunna (Captain, 26th Foot), Portuguese Peninsula War Cross, Portuguese Commander’s Medal for Vittoria and St Sebastian. The catalogue recorded the major events of his military career, including the fact that he commanded the 3rd Portuguese Regiment at Vittoria and St Sebastian, being severely wounded during the assault of the latter, but the lot reached no more than its bottom estimate of £18,000 (hammer, £21,600 with premium). A superb regimental group to Joseph Ellicock, 32nd Foot [457], comprised Punjab Medal clasps Mooltan, Goojerat, India General Service Medal clasp North West Frontier, Indian Mutiny Medal clasp Defence Of Lucknow, Long Service Medal (V); Ellicock was Orderly to the Lucknow garrison Commander, Sir John Inglis, and mention was made of him in the diary of Lady Inglis. With a top estimate of £3,000, the lot was bid up to £4,920. A Light Brigade “Charger’s” group was a highlight of the auction: Lot 463 was the Crimea Medal with four clasps (contemporary engraved naming), French Medaille Militaire, Turkish Crimea Medal to John Andrews, Sergeant, 4th Light Dragoons. Accompanied by his original parchment discharge certificate (December 17, 1860), the group achieved the bottom estimate of £6,000 (£7,200 in all). Another excellent regimental group was awarded to T/ Sgt-Maj J. Mobbs, 20th Hussars [477], comprising Egypt Medal clasps Suakin 1884, Tofrek, Long Service Medal (V), Meritorious Service Medal (GV), Khedive’s Star; Mobbs was wounded at Tofrek, and this was therefore a very scarce group, so it was no surprise when it was bid up to £1,800 (top estimate £800). A QSA/KSA Pair [496] with virtually no research but with a scarce clasp was awarded to (Sgt) G. Pile. His QSA, with the service number 6 in the Protectorate Regiment Frontier Force, had clasps Orange Free State, Defence Of Mafeking, Transvaal; the KSA (two clasps), named for him in the Border Scouts. The top estimate of £1,100 was not far from the final price of £1,440. An apparently simple 1914–15 Star Trio [525] more than doubled its top estimate of £250, because it was awarded to Hugh Norton Tate, a civilian, and the medals were impressed: “Service With The Royal Navy” after the recipient’s name; with a certain amount of career research, the lot was knocked down for £624. Among the more modern groups, Lot 560 was of some interest: 1939–45/Italy/France & Germany Stars, Defence & War Medals, Queen’s Korea Medal, UN Korea to (Sgt) L. Kent, KOSB (on the Korea Medal); the catalogue recorded that he was wounded on the bridge at Arnhem while serving with 2nd Parachute Regiment. The top estimate of £1,000 was left behind with the lot realising £1,920. A very modern group [580] to L/Cpl J. S. McCullough comprised GSM 1962 clasp Northern Ireland (Royal Irish), UN Cyprus, Jubilee 2002, Accumulated Campaign Service Medal with three clasps (Ulster Defence Regiment), Long Service Medal (EII) (R Irish). Totally unresearched, this group was knocked down for £1,020 (top estimate £550).

The last section was Gallantry and Distinguished Service (Lots 582–663). This opened [582] with the superb group to General Sir George Anson, GCB (1769–1849), which included the unique Large Army Gold Medal with clasps Salamanca, Vittoria. His career was set out in the catalogue, recording his various honours and awards, and the lot reached the top estimate of £50,000 (hammer, £60,000 with premium). Another highly attractive lot [585] was the group awarded to (Rear-Admiral) Christopher Theodore Jellicoe, RN (1903–1977): Companion of the Bath, Distinguished Service Order (GVI), Distinguished Service Cross and Bar (GVI), 1939–45/Atlantic/Africa/Italy Stars, War Medal (MiD), Coronation Medal 1953 (the World War II campaign medals having privately engraved naming). The catalogue described Jellicoe as “the epitome of the gallant destroyer captain”, and his career and awards fully justified this. The top estimate of £10,000 was not enough to secure the lot, which sold for £16,800. A very unusual lot [587] was the group awarded to Hervy Hardinge Golding, Merchant Navy (1887–1982), consisting of Officer of the Order of the British Empire, BWM, Mercantile Marine War Medal, 1939–45/Atlantic Stars, War Medal, Southern Railway Company’s Meritorious Service Medal. Golding was Master of the SS Isle Of Jersey, the last ship to leave the Channel Islands before the German occupation. His award was for his calmness, bravery and competent handling of his ship when it came under fire from enemy aircraft at St Peter Port, June 28, 1940. This scarce group had a top estimate of £5,000, and was accompanied by a huge amount of personal memorabilia and photographs; it was unsurprisingly bid up to £8,400. A more orthodox gallantry group [601] was the Military Cross and Bar, 1914–15 Star Trio to (Captain) Dering Addison, Seaforth Highlanders (Private on Star), whose awards were for Ypres, July 31, 1917 and Mont Huwy, October 28, 1918 (according to the engraving on the MC); this excellent regimental group, estimated very conservatively at £2,200, cost the successful bidder £4,440. Another group [625], this one much rarer, was awarded to (C/Sgt) Benjamin White, RMA: Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (V), Egypt Medal 1882 clasp Tel-El-Kebir, Jubilee 1897, Coronation 1902, Coronation 1911, Long Service Medal (V), RM Meritorious Service Medal, Khedive’s Star; the CGM was awarded for his actions at Kassassin, which helped prevent the enemy from turning the British left flank. The top estimate of £15,000 looked about right, but the group finally realised £25,200. The highest price paid in this sale was for Lot 660, which comprised Military Medal (EII), GSM 1962 clasp Northern Ireland, South Atlantic Medal 1982 (rosette), UN Cyprus Medal, NATO Medal clasp Kosovo, Jubilee Medal 2002, Long Service Medal clasp Regular Army (EII) to (Cpl) Ian P. Bailey, 3/ Parachute Regiment. This iconic award, for Bailey’s gallantry at Mount Longdon, when he charged with rifle and fixed bayonet alongside the late Sgt Ian Mackay, VC, was sold by the recipient himself, and was realistically estimated at £60,000, as it included important original documentation. However, the final figure achieved was £84,000.

Bonhams December 16 2009

Phil Mussell — 30/01/2010 09:00:00

Market scene October - December 2009

Although this sale included relatively few medals, much of what was on offer was worth commenting on, and was attractive and (generally speaking) affordable for many collectors.

Five Naval General Service Medals 1793 opened the single medal section, the most interesting of which was awarded to Owen Anning, Carpenter’s Crew, HMS Revolutionaire, with clasp St Sebastian [Lot 2]; catalogued as having “heavy bruising and contact marks” (the latter indicating a missing medal, perhaps), it was correctly estimated at £900–1,200, selling for £1,050 hammer (£1,234 including buyers’ premium of 17.5 per cent). The Waterloo Medal named for James Allison, 6th Inniskilling Dragoons [6], was accompanied by minimal research, and estimated realistically at £1,600–2,000; however, the successful bidder had to pay £3,643 to take it away, making it one of the most expensive Waterloo Medals sold at auction this year. The next lot [7] was, compared with the Waterloo Medal, very well written up in the catalogue: “China Medal 1842 to William Backhouse Monypenny, Lieutenant on HMS Sulphur; as a result of his actions during this campaign he was promoted to Commander”. The top estimate of £1,000 was just beaten, the lot achieving £1,351. An attractive Crimea Medal clasp Sebastopol [12] to Cpl S. Hudd, 34th Foot, catalogued as “toned, almost extremely fine”, and with a top estimate of £200, topped this to the tune of £294. Yet another Indian Mutiny Medal clasp Defence of Lucknow to the 32nd Light Infantry appeared here [16], this one to Samuel Smith, who died of wounds in November 1857. Several of these medals have appeared on the market in 2009, notably at Bosleys in March when the medal and similar clasp to Sgt J. Farrall (killed September 1857) sold for £1,725 (including premium); in June when the medal and clasp to C/Sgt Robert Gee (died March 1858) made £1,380; and at DNW in September when the medal to Henry Bushell (died July 1857), made £1,920. It was probably disappointing for the vendor, therefore, when Smith’s medal made no more than the bottom estimate of £600 (hammer, £705 in total). Perhaps the condition (“refixed suspension”) went against it. The attractive New Zealand Medal, reverse 1863–1866 [18], to (Brigadier Surgeon) Robert Alexander Peter Grant, 43rd Light Infantry (1835–1916) was accompanied by an outline of his career; the lot sold for £780 (hammer, £917 in all) against an estimate of £600–800. Abyssinia Medals are not common on the market currently, and it was therefore slightly surprising that the example to Pte P. Collins, 33rd Foot [21], did not even reach the bottom estimate of £280, making no more than £270 (hammer, £318 altogether). Two damaged, but iconic, lots appeared in this sale, giving a collector of modest means a chance to acquire an example at a reasonable price. Lot 22 was a Second Afghan War Medal to Pte J. Nolan, 66th Foot; although the medal’s condition (“evidence of brooch fitting . . . refixed suspension, polished . . .”) was against it, and Nolan was not a casualty of Maiwand, the selling price was only £100 (hammer, £118 altogether), not even reaching the bottom estimate of £140. Similarly, Lot 24 was a Tibet Medal with clasp to Pte J. Sewell, Royal Fusiliers, catalogued as “fire damaged, poor”, with a top estimate of £150; even in this condition, the lot was bid up to £212, but this would still be within the reach of the majority of collectors, whereas the similar medal to Pte J. Scott made £960 at DNW in September.

Among the campaign groups was yet another pair of medals, several examples of which have appeared on the market recently: Queen’s and Khedive’s Sudan Medals to Pte H. Gammon, 21st Lancers [40], who was catalogued as having been in A Squadron and listed as a Trumpeter. Similar pairs to this regiment have made varying amounts recently. The pair to Cpl J. Range, who was slightly wounded in the charge, realised £5,400 at DNW in June 2009; that to Sgt G. Lelliott made £2,280 at Spink in July 2008; the pairto Pte T. Kevins sold for £1,351 at Bonhams in December 2008. Gammon’s pair beat its top estimate of £1,800 to achieve £2,233, therefore selling competitively.

The Memorial Plaque to Lilian Kane [25] was enigmatic. The catalogue stated that this name was not recorded by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, but the Imperial War Museum recorded her as attached to the Land Army. The General Register Office index records a Lilian Kane, who died in Sussex, aged 18, in the December quarter 1918. Clearly worthy of more research, this lot reached the bottom estimate of £1,500 (hammer, £1,763 in all). An intriguing Lot [41] consisted of a 1914 Star Trio to (Commander) P. H. Ridler, RN, Armoured Trains. [With the group, but probably not influencing the bidding unduly, was a 1935 Jubilee Medal, miniatures, and assorted coins, medallions and 36 £1 notes!] The top estimate of £700 was trebled, the lot selling for £2,115. An attractive lot [48] for collectors of officer casualties was the group to (2/Lt) John Jarvie: 1914–15 Star Trio, Memorial Plaque and Scroll, the Star being named for him as Sergeant, Royal Scots; he died of wounds in April 1917 serving with 7/8th King’s Own Scottish Borderers. The catalogue recorded some of his personal details, which hinted that more rewarding research could be done, and the estimate of £500–700 was just about right, the lot making £620 (hammer, £729 with premium).

The gallantry medals in this sale generally conformed very much to estimate. A single Distinguished Conduct Medal (GV) to Gilbert McKie, 7/Cameron Highlanders [28], who was killed in action in March 1918, did not quite meet the bottom estimate of £800, selling for £780 (hammer, £917 in all); perhaps the fact that the citation was not an overly fighting one told against the lot. The single Military Medal (GVI) to Sgt R. Cox, Corps of Military Police, in spite of a glowing citation, and there having been no more than 63 MMs to the CMP, reached only the bottom estimate of £1,200 (hammer, £1,410 with premium). However, this was reversed with the superb group to Frederick Charles Willoughby, Royal Marines [38], consisting of Distinguished Service Medal (GVI), 1939–45/Africa/Italy/Burma Stars, Defence & War Medals, Royal Fleet Reserve Long Service Medal (GVI). His citation was for Norway, and the top estimate of £1,800 was easily beaten with the successful bidder having to pay £2,703.

Stamp of Honour

Phil Mussell — 29/01/2010 14:24:00

A stamp celebrating the first black man and one of teh first Canadians to win the Victoria Cross goes on sale on Monday February 1 2010 across Canada.

The Stamp, featuring William Hall who won his V.C. Serving with the Royal Navy at Lucknow during the mutiny, will officially be launched at HMCS York on Monday - read the full story here

You can read more about Hall in this excellent article

Service Rendered Volume 2

Phil Mussell — 27/01/2010 11:38:00

The latest Volume in Alan Stuart Excellent Silver War Badge Series is available from Token Publishing now!

These books are a must have for any World War I Collector listing as they do the complete roll for the War (Wound) badge both by badge number and by surname - was your medal recipient wounded....?

Volume one dealt with Officers this latest work looks at the Nursing Services, the Cyclists, The RFC and other "Small Corps". You can buy your copy here

Medal News Market Scene

Phil Mussell — 26/01/2010 15:04:00

Market Scene October - December 2009

The sheer number of sales in October, November and December 2009 means that for this month only (February) we are not able to accommodate full reports for each within the pages of MEDAL NEWS.

Your magazine will still carry the highlights of course and two pages are devoted just to them - the full reports will appear on-line from Saturday January 30 at 9.00am! (If it's after 9.00am on Saturday - you need to refresh your browser - you shouldn't be looking at this!)

Watch this space....!!

If you would like a paper copy of these reports please don't hesitate to get in touch with us

The Year of the Tiger

Phil Mussell — 26/01/2010 10:18:00

A thriving situation . . . IF any further proof were needed that the British (if not the world’s) media loves to look on the bleak side of things then the headlines that cropped up over the festive period were surely enough to convince even the most hardened sceptics. Faced with the fact that during 2009 house prices had, on average, actually gone up; unemployment had stayed below the magic three million; interest rates had stayed at a record low; inflation hadn’t hit the roof and oil remained volatile but nowhere near the disastrous levels seen in 2008, the newspapers, websites and television news channels turned their attention elsewhere—and really started scraping the bottom of the barrel. In headlines such as “Has gold gone cold?”, “Has the gold bubble burst?”, etc., the press sought to worry us that the inexorable rise of the precious metal had come to an end and that anyone who had bought in the past few months was sure to come a cropper. And their basis for this? The fact that the high of over $1,200 an ounce wasn’t sustained and the price of gold fell back a little (and I really do mean a little). But wait a minute—it might have fallen back initially to under $1,100/oz but it still was at dizzying heights and already, as January trading takes off, it is back at near $1,150/oz and climbing—in other words the pundits once again hadn’t got a clue and, as is their wont, they jumped on a bandwagon that actually wasn’t rolling very far at all. The fact is that gold has consistently done well in the past decade, rising over 400 per cent in the ten years since the “dotcom” bubble burst in 2000, and there are no immediate signs of any kind of dramatic correction. Gold is, and continues to look like, a “solid” investment. What though does that have to do with us at COIN NEWS? We’re not an investment magazine so why does the price of gold matter to us? Well, whether we like it or not the investment side of our hobby is pretty big at the moment and whilst I know I’ve spoken about this before it is, I think, worth mentioning again. On the whole our little pastime has done reasonably well out of the “worst recession since the 1930s” (that’ll be the press again)—a look at any auction house’s prices realised or any coin fair bourse will show you that, far from suffering in the midst of a depression, the coin market is actually doing OK. Every month auction records continue to tumble and every month queues to grab the early bargains at the shows grow longer. The BBC, no less, has featured coins and coin shows (the monthly Birmingham show specifically) as being a way to invest for the future and there can be no denying the fact that we are seeing new faces come into the hobby every week — and we all know that many of these are coming in as investors not numismatists. Another reason people are getting so interested in coins and precious metal is the sudden rise of the “we buy your gold” companies all keen to help us out by relieving us of all that unwanted gold we just happen to have lying around. The more astute members of the public are beginning to realise that for these companies to make money in a rising market they might not be giving quite the full market value for the items offered and so we are finding more and more people buying price guides (our own Coin Yearbook has again almost sold out despite printing 3,000 more copies this year than last) and more and more people approaching bona fide coin dealers for an accurate and fair valuation of what they have. The result of all this is that the coin hobby is awash with new people, and of course new money, and that has to be a good thing. Yes, it is true many of these people won’t stay coin collectors forever and many sceptics will point to the fact that when the stock market stabilises these investors will move their money back into stocks and shares—but may I respectfully point out that the FTSE has actually been rising steadily for the past twelve months and as I write this in January 2010 it now stands a full 2,000 points above what it was in March 2009—has the coin market shrunk in a similar way? Has the price of gold tumbled to reflect the return to the more standard trading in the city? Quite simply, no, and that’s something I think we should be very grateful for. Too often the purist numismatists have looked down on the investors with disdain, they have felt that those with a lot of spare cash but not much knowledge shouldn’t really be considered collectors like the rest of us. But may I put it to you that without these investors, without those willing to spend their money on coins—for whatever reason—this hobby and trade would not be in the enviably strong position it is now. I have no idea what 2010 will bring for any of us but I do know that now that Christmas is over and a new year is beginning, all of us should look back at 2009, breathe a little sigh of relief and thank our lucky stars that, despite the doomsayers in the national press, the bubbles haven’t been bursting and actually we are all still doing alright. So, next time you hear of someone buying sovereigns as a nest egg or moving his money out of the FTSE and into numismatics, don’t turn up your nose at his plans, rather you should shake him by the hand and thank him for allowing the hobby you love so much to thrive!

Korea DSC donated

Phil Mussell — 22/01/2010 10:53:00

An exceptionally rare Distinguished Service Cross awarded to Australian Pilot Lt (later Commander) Guy Beange for flying Sea Fury Aircraft from HMAS Sydney during teh Korean War has been donated to the Australian War Memorial. For the full story see here

Iranian Banknotes - all change

Phil Mussell — 21/01/2010 12:16:00

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has stated that Iran needs to "re-denominate" its banknotes and apparently the Central Bank is looking to cut three zeros from the notes. The rial is the official currency of Iraq and currently there are about 10,000 to one US$ - that looks set to change with the new denominated currency equalling just 10 rial to the US$ For more information see here

It isn't only here....

Phil Mussell — 21/01/2010 12:11:00

Following the tale of "Walter Mitty" wannabe Roger Day and his array of medals at an Armistice day parade MEDAL NEWS can report that this isn't just a UK phenomenon.

A Tampa Bay, Florida man, Angel Manuel Ocasio-Reyes, has recently pleaded not guilty to wearing medals to which he was not entitled. He was charged in December under the Stolen Valor Act and faces three counts: falsely wearing medals authorized by Congress, falsely representing himself to have been awarded decorations and medals, and falsely altering a military discharge form. Punishment could be a year in prison and a $100,000 fine for each count.

VC hero back on duty

Phil Mussell — 21/01/2010 12:06:00

The New Zealand Government has expressed its anger over news pictures in the New Zealand Herald that identified NZVC winner Cpl. Willie Apiata on duty in Afghanistan. Cpl. Apiata was shown as one of two soldiers patrolling a street in Kabul after Taliban gunmen attacked the city earlier this week. The full story can be found here

French honour for Gloucestershire man

Phil Mussell — 21/01/2010 11:49:00

Alex Rowe of Stonehouse, Gloucestershire is to be awarded the French Legion of Honour for bravery in Afghanistan with the French Foreign Legion - not bad for a lad who was refused entry into the British army because of a sight problem. You can view the full story here

Heading North

Phil Mussell — 21/01/2010 11:43:00

We'll be heading up the M5/M42/A42/M1 (yes it's a long way) again on Sunday January 31 to attend Eddie Smith's "Leeds" show at the Cedar Court Hotel Wakefield, just off junction 39 of the M1

Eddie's show has gone from strength to strength in recent years and we always like to support it if we can, unfortunately this will be the only one we can get to for a while (the fair is always on the last Sunday of the month and we have Dublin in February, Harrogate in March, the Orders and Medals Society North show in April, holidays booked in May and another medal fair in June) so if you want to come and see us January it has to be!

We'll always bring a good selection of our books and accessories with us to this show but if you want something specific please do drop us a line - we'll do our best to bring it up.

See you then!

York - again!

Phil Mussell — 13/01/2010 09:47:00

I can't quite believe it but the York Coin and Medal fair is almost upon us once again - this Friday and Saturday will see the Knavesmire Stand at York Racecourse play hots to a large number of dealers all of whom are guaranteed to carry some fantastic stock! The fair starts at 11.00am on Friday (January 15) and 10.00am on Saturday and entrance is free! We'll be there of course, it's a long way from Devon to York but if we can make it we're sure you can too!

"Walter Mitty" Admission

Phil Mussell — 12/01/2010 15:30:00

The "soldier" who caused outrage at an Armistice Day parade in Warwickshire has admitted to "unlawfully using military decoration". The full story can be found here

New Britannia Design

Phil Mussell — 11/01/2010 16:07:00

The Royal Mint have just announced the design of the 2010 Britannia. A more relaxed image graces the new coin with Britannia portrayed in classical style, hair and robes flowing and sporting a "Corinthian" style helmet.

Judge for yourselves!

Coin of the Year 2009/2010

Phil Mussell — 08/01/2010 11:22:00

According to a Krause press release today "Ten outstanding 2008-dated coins have been honored with Coin of the Year Awards by World Coin News magazine."

An international panel of judges selected the winners from hundreds of nominated coins during a final round of balloting that concluded in late December. The awards will be presented Jan. 30, in a special ceremony at the World Money Fair in Berlin, Germany, by World Coin News executive editor David C. Harper.

"Krause Publications and World Coin News have sponsored the Coin of the Year Awards for nearly 30 years, and each year the entries get better and better," said Lisa Bellavin, Coin of the Year coordinator for KP. "This round of voting was no exception. The creativity, innovation and craftsmanship shown by mints around the world is nothing short of breathtaking, and we are pleased to honor those who continue to push coin design and manufacturing to new heights."

The winners include:

Most Historically Significant: Kazakhstan, 100 Tenge, silver, Genghis Khan

Best Contemporary Event: Israel, 10 New Shequalim, silver, Israel's 60th anniversary

Best Gold: Latvia, 20 Lati, gold, Coin of Latvia

Best Silver: Germany, 10 Euro, silver, Franz Kafka

Best Crown: Austria, 10 Euro, silver, The Abbey of Klosterneuberg

Most Popular: United States, 1 Dollar, silver, American Eagle

Best Trade: Cyprus, 2 Euro, bi-metallic, Ancient statue cross

Most Innovative: Austria, 25 Euro, silver, Fascination Light

Most Artistic: Poland, 200 Zlotych, gold, Warsaw ghetto uprising

Most Inspirational: Canada, 2,500 Dollars, gold, Towards Confederation

Voting for the overall Coin of the Year, as well as the People's Choice award, will conclude soon, with winners also unveiled at the World Money Fair in Berlin.

Faking it

Phil Mussell — 07/01/2010 10:26:00

Fake £1 coins are never far from the news as this story from Northern Ireland shows....

Let that be a lesson to us all!

Snow joke

Phil Mussell — 07/01/2010 10:24:00

Apologies to anyone waiting for Token Publishing book/accessory orders - the snow has meant that key members of staff (me for example :) ) haven't been able to make it into work so there is a small backlog of orders waiting for despatch. We will get onto it as soon as we can!

The York Stamp and Coin show

Phil Mussell — 22/12/2009 11:35:00

Now why would you - a MEDAL NEWS reader want to come to a stamp and Coin show? Well you'd be surprised at just how many medals are on offer at the bi-annual event, many Coin dealers have them on their tables and there are always one or two specialist medal dealers too - but there isn't the competition amongst the medal collectors as far fewer go along than they do to the specialist Medal and Militaria shows! The next fair is on January 15 and 16 - at the usual venue of the York racecourse - it might be worth your while coming along. And as it's free to get in what have you got to lose....!

The first show of 2010.....

Phil Mussell — 22/12/2009 11:30:00

For the token Team at least will be the York Stamp and Coin Fair (there are medals there too!) on January 15 and 16 at the tried and tested venue of the Knavesmire Stand at York Racecourse. We love York, the show is great, the city is wonderful and the people are always friendly - if you haven't been to the show before you really should come along, it's free to get in and is well worth the trip - we'll see you there.

For full details of the venue, opening times, dealers attending etc. see the January issue of COIN NEWS

Christmas deliveries

Phil Mussell — 22/12/2009 11:23:00

By the end of play today (Tuesday 22 December) all orders received will have been posted out, the only exceptions being those items not in stock which all customers should have been informed about.

We have been exceptionally busy this year but all Alyson has done sterling work in getting everything out by Christmas - most items ordered up until Friday were posted out via first class post yesterday (Monday 21) if not before! Only those ordered within the past 24 hours, or those for which we are awaiting stock, have been left until today!

If you haven't received a pre-ordered item please note that everything has gone out - but once it leaves us we are at the mercy of the Royal Mail - we do hope everything arrives in good time but should you still be missing something on January 4 2010 when we come back after the Christmas break do get in touch and we'll see what we can do!

Christmas opening hours

Phil Mussell — 22/12/2009 11:20:00

We can't quite believe it but Christmas is upon us already and, nice employers that we are, we're giving our staff a bit of a break over the festive period. We'll be closing on Wednesday 23 December at 1.00pm and will be back full of turkey (or in the case of the vegetarians in the company some nut roast or similar) on Monday January 4 2010.

We'd like to wish all of our customers a very, very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

New legal tender UK coins

Phil Mussell — 21/12/2009 16:07:00

Opportunity knocks . . . THE Royal Mint’s “new releases” for 2010 circulating coinage, as featured on the front cover this month, have come as something of a surprise. We all knew there would be new coins of course, there always are, but the extent of the new releases has got us at the COIN NEWS office somewhat baffled. The £5 coin—depicting the restoration of the Monarchy and the stylised but rather attractive £2 coin commemorating the centenary of Florence Nightingale’s death were expected—after all, both the larger denominations have traditionally been used to represent Royalty (think Henry VIII and Elizabeth I) and famous people (think Brunel and Guy Fawkes) and these two choices seem admirable enough, however, the introduction of not one but two brand new £1 coins was not expected. After all, it was only just under two years ago that the new “jigsaw” series of circulating coins was introduced so we didn’t think we would see anything else quite so soon. The new coins herald an entirely new £1 coin series, although with a difference—this time the reverse will depict not one “home country”, as was seen with the flora and fauna, bridges or heraldic series, but all four, with symbols for the four capitals being shown all together with one being larger to denote which country is actually being represented. It sounds complicated but really it isn’t—think “all countries are equal but on these coins one is more equal than others” (sorry Mr Orwell!). This is, to our knowledge, the first time a new series has been launched with two coins rather than one and is certainly the first time all four constituent parts of the United Kingdom have been depicted together on a £1 coin (that’s excluding the obvious national symbols of the shield and the coat of arms). At a time when there is more talk than ever about devolution and the break up of the Union, is this the Royal Mint’s way of promoting unity we wonder! More of a surprise than having three £1 coins in circulation in 2010 was the inclusion of a new 50p—this time representing 100 years of the Girl Guides. In itself this is understandable—after all, the Scouts had their Centenary 50p back in 2007 so in the interests of equality, if nothing else, the Guides had to have a look in too. But consider this—March of this year sees the start of the Olympic 50p release, the UK’s very own version of the States Quarters programme so successful on the other side of the pond, with a new 50p representing a different Olympic and Paralympic sport being issued every month between March 2010 and the start of the London Olympics in August 2012. Given that there will therefore be a plethora of new Olympic related 50p designs in our pockets (as well as the standard reverse to complete the jigsaw) it is perhaps odd that the Royal Mint decided to add to the mix by introducing yet another. Do they perhaps believe that the Olympic 50 pences will disappear as quickly as they get released? Hoarded away by those back room collectors who would never consider themselves numismatists and yet avidly collect every commemorative that they get in change? If you don’t believe such people exist, ask yourself this—when was the last time you saw a Brunel £2 coin or a Victoria Cross 50p in your change? They were released into general circulation just like every other coin and yet they, and just about every other commemorative, just seem to disappear. If this is the case and the Mint expect these coins to vanish, then they must believe that there are thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of people interested enough to squirrel them away. But if that’s the case then don’t those people, and indeed us “proper” numismatists, deserve to know just what it is we’re collecting? At this stage all we know is that there will be 29 coins each representing a different sport, but we don’t know exactly what sports will be depicted or indeed in what order they will be released. The “Blue Peter” competition winner, nine-year-old Florence Jackson of Bristol, chose the high jump as her theme and we believe that that will be the coin that kicks off the programme but we aren’t certain. Let us hope that by the time March comes around we will know a little more. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a return to the “check your change” days when half the population was on the look out for the rarities in their pockets? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have the general public eagerly adding to their own fledgling collections every time a new coin hits the streets? I would love to see albums and folders full of these new 50 pences being carried around fairs as the new collectors desperately try to fill in the gaps. I’d love to see the rarer ones being traded at shows or on-line however, unless we know what we’re looking for, the albums and folders can’t be produced, the new collectors will end up confused and the opportunity will be missed. 2010 is a chance for the Royal Mint to re-ignite the public’s interest in coins and collecting. They have already announced how they plan to do it and I do so hope they will live up to expectations. We can only wait and see.

Birmingham Motorcycle Museum

Phil Mussell — 10/12/2009 12:07:00

Are you coming to the Motorcycle Museum near the NEC this Sunday (December 13)? This regular show is held every second Sunday of the month and is always a popular venue amongst dealers and collectors alike - so popular that once a quarter the organisers have to move to the bigger room - the Britannia suite - to accommodate everyone! This move means that every so often your favourite publsihers (that's us by the way) can have a table - so hopefully we'll see you there!

Oh and for all you medal collectors out there - this isn't just a coin fair - the bigger shows always have an excellent range of medals on offer!

Bomber VC sets new auction record

Phil Mussell — 04/12/2009 11:16:00

Keeping everyone happy AGAIN I’m afraid I have to split this Editorial in two—I was all ready to talk about our Britannia medal fair and our ideas for the future when suddenly not one but two Victoria Crosses sell for incredible money. The first to Flight Lieutenant Bill Reid, a Lancaster Bomber pilot, sold at Spink for a staggering £348,000, bought, apparently, by the late Chris John’s sister as a tribute to him. A fine tribute indeed and a record for a VC group to a British recipient. No sooner had we digested that incredible piece of news (for more information see page 6) but we learn via the Daily Telegraph that Lord Ashcroft has paid an astonishing £1.5 million (or thereabouts—the exact figure is unknown) for the wonderful VC and bar awarded to Captain Noel Chavasse, one of only three “double VCs” ever awarded. The medal had, some time ago, been bequeathed by the Captain’s family to St Peter’s College, Oxford (founded by Captain Chavasse’s Father, the Reverend Francis Chavasse, in 1929). It now rests in the superb Ashcroft Collection and no doubt will form the centre piece to the Ashcroft Victoria Cross Gallery that will open in the Imperial War Museum next year. Now regular readers will know that we are firm supporters of Lord Ashcroft’s endeavours, believing his quest to form the largest collection of the ultimate gallantry award and then display them in London for all to see, to be an excellent idea and one that ultimately benefits us all—public and collector alike. However, in this particular case we are somewhat more reticent with our enthusiasm. In the main Lord Ashcroft’s acquisitions have, until now, either come from public auction or from private treaty—often with the family or, in some cases, the recipients themselves. In this case, however, he has bought the medal from those to whom it was donated and that begs a few questions. To my mind when a medal has been bequeathed or donated to an organisation, be it a museum, regiment or college, it has been done so because that is the will of the recipient or their next of kin. Is it therefore wrong for that organisation to profit at a later date from that item’s sale? After all, if profit were to be made shouldn’t it have been made by the recipient or their family in the first instance? Of course, I don’t know the full details of this transaction and the current descendants of Captain Chavasse may have been consulted at every turn (although I do not know whether the family is still involved with the College at all today) but nevertheless, I feel that even if this were the case they are not those who made the bequest and therefore cannot really speak for them. While I am sure that the money received from the sale will be put to excellent use, and will carry on the educational work that Reverend Chavasse intended the college for, I’m still not entirely convinced. To my mind if something has been donated it is not for the beneficiary to later make money from that act of generosity and whilst I do not begrudge the Ashcroft Collection this fine piece and can understand why Lord Ashcroft wanted to acquire it, I can’t help but feel a “permanent loan” to the gallery and perhaps a donation to the college by Lord Ashcroft may have been a more palatable way of doing things. The outcome would have been, to all intents and purposes the same, but somehow there’s a moral difference. Maybe I’m just being old fashioned but if I were the owner of a high end gallantry group I think I might now fear to donate or bequeath it, believing that it too could, in time, simply be sold on. I think I’d rather have the money myself! On a completely different note, I would just like to thank all who attended an incredibly successful “Britannia” on November 22. We had 34 dealers taking a total of 54 tables and that attracted over 500 collectors through the door throughout the day—with 124 queuing before opening at 9.30am! From what we can ascertain, most people had a very enjoyable time and a great many of the dealers and collectors alike took the time to congratulate us on making the day such a good one. A full report, and pictures, will appear in the next issue of MEDAL NEWS. This, of course, was the second of our shows and we have now proved, beyond doubt, that we can get the dealers in and the public in. However, of course, there will always be the potential problem that the former don’t have what the latter are looking for—if that’s the case then simple numbers mean nothing. To counter this age-old problem we have decided to launch a “Britannia Wants” list. Quite simply, if you plan to come to the next Britannia (March 21, 2010) then let us know, before the beginning of that month, what you collect and what you’d like to see on offer. We’ll circulate that list to all dealers attending and they will do their best to bring stock that suits your needs—or maybe source it if they don’t have it. There will be no obligation to buy, your name won’t be passed on, all that will happen is that the dealers will know that there will be people attending the fair who collect X, Y or Z—all you then have to do is check out their tables and hopefully they will have brought something of interest along and you can make your decision whether to buy or not! Dealers would always rather bring things they have a good chance of selling and collectors would rather see things on tables they’d like to buy—the answer is simple—tell us what you want, and we’ll pass it on. Look out in the February issue for more details and a “wants” form, but in the meantime write to us or email us (we’d like your wants in writing please so don’t call in with them) and we’ll start compiling that list now. We will then circulate it to the dealers stalling out in March and, with luck, everyone is happy. That’s the theory anyway!

World Record for an MM group

Phil Mussell — 03/12/2009 17:43:00

The DNW sale of Wednesady December 2 saw an amazing £70,000 paid for the Falklands MM group awarded to Captain (then Corporal) Ian Bailey for the full strory see news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/surrey/8390468.stm

Stop thief MC group missing

Phil Mussell — 30/11/2009 16:09:00

In the early hours of Thursday 19^th November a family collection of 14 medals including an MC group was stolen from a house in Leicester. The medals missing are as follows:

Lt Col Edward Cecil Barton:

Military Cross (engraved with recipients deatils and "Ypres 1917")

1914/15 Star

British War Medal

Victory Medal

India General Medal with North West Frontier Clasp

King George VI Coronation Medal

1939/45 Star

War Medal 1939/45

Defence Medal

Lt Reginald Frederick Barton:

1914/15 Star

British War Medal

Victory Medal

Edward Robert Barton:

2 unknown medals

If anyone has any information on the whereabouts of these medals or would like to help further please contact Tom Barton on 07825 439518 email him at stolenmedals@yahoo.co.uk, speak to Leicestershire police 0116 222 2222 or anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

Tony Fitzsimmons 1925-2009

Phil Mussell — 26/11/2009 15:18:00

It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of Tony Fitzsimmons on November 24 2009.

Tony was a regular "helper" of Steve Sewell's across nearly 30 years and anyone who has seen Steve at any medal fair, be it Bromley, Bristol or Britannia, will have known his father in law Tony. A true gentleman he was always ready to say hello and share a joke or two with yo and he will be greatly missed by many in the trade.

Our sympathies and condolences go out to Steve and his wife Geraldine, Tony's daughter.

Britannia Success

Phil Mussell — 24/11/2009 11:04:00

Thank you all - dealers and collectors alike - who made Britannia on Sunday such a success, the weather was against us, the underground was against us but we still managed to get over 500 people through the door! The room was buzzing and on more than one occasion I heard the comments "it's just like the old days" - praise indeed.

There were a couple of complaints of course - the main one being too many people - sorry about that but it's a problem I'm happy to have! The only other concern was that a few people said they couldn't find anything on the dealers' tables to suit their needs.

That will always be a problem - we can't dictate what people collect or what dealers will bring - but we think we may have a way round it - look out in the next MEDAL NEWS - and on this site next week - for further details.

The Ultimate VC

Phil Mussell — 22/11/2009 23:50:00

According to the Daily Telegraph Lord Aschroft has paid a staggering £1.5million for the magnificent "VC and Bar" to Captain Noel Chavasse - one of only three double Victoria Crosses ever awarded. According to the 'paper's website Lord Ashcroft bought the medals from St Peter's College Oxford to whom they had been bequeathed sometime ago. For the full story see www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/6624138/Lord-Ashcroft-pays-record-price-for-ultimate-Victoria-Cross.html

The Ship Noble

Phil Mussell — 20/11/2009 12:57:00

We have the power . . . A RECENT TRIP to my local antiques fair left me in shock—I discovered a veritable hoard of rarities—a pile, literally a pile, of 1804 silver dollars on one dealer’s stand. My goodness, what a find! Here was I in the middle of Devon and I’d discovered a hitherto unknown source of one of the world’s rarest coins and they were all reasonably priced too! Thoughts of the riches to come buzzed around my head and I was giddy with excitement, until I picked up one of the rarities and reality crashed back in. They were of course fakes, copies, probably emanating from China and, to the trained numismatist, not even very good ones. They were too light, didn’t feel right and it didn’t take a genius to work out that with a pile of them on offer these weren’t going to be the real McCoy. I’d known this of course but you can’t blame me for getting a little carried away . . . I didn’t bother talking to the dealer. I cannot be bothered to waste my breath on those pedalling such trash, but it did make me think—I wasn’t fooled and the chances are the seller (who wasn’t specifically dealing in coins) wasn’t intending to sell these as anything other than “replicas”. But we all know that people are taken in, every day, and that there are many who will happily sell on such rubbish as original. Therefore I am using this “Comment” to once again jump on my soap box and talk about the problem that faces us all—and ask everyone of you, dealer and collector alike to help do something about it. Whilst the problem of fakes is real, and the threat posed by the copies coming out of the Far East has to be tackled, the number of “copies” out there is still relatively small—we just don’t want it to get any bigger! A number of influential American organisations, including the American Numismatic Association (ANA) and the Professional Numismatists Guild (PNG) are already on the case. In a recent press release they state that more than a million counterfeit coins manufactured in China have been fraudulently sold in the States and that this poses a “significant financial risk for unsuspecting consumers”. Well of course it does—if there are fakes out there (and we know there are) then someone is going to get stung—the secret is to make sure it isn’t you. Unfortunately, it is a fact of modern day life, with computer-aided manufacture, that anything, anything at all, can be and is being forged, and yes, it seems that China is one of the main culprits, with the Chinese authorities either unwilling or unable to act and the western authorities powerless. The fact is that the manufacture of these coins as replicas is not illegal—what is against the law, certainly in Europe and the USA, is the selling them on as original and, sadly, that is what is happening on various internet sites and indeed at markets everywhere—with the poor unsuspecting buyer soon finding his “rarity” is nothing of the sort but is, in fact, just a cheap copy. But hold on a minute—I use the term “unsuspecting buyer” too loosely—if we look carefully at those who do buy from anonymous sources on-line or manage to discover a fabulous rarity at a local boot sale, we will find they are not, in fact, “unsuspecting” at all—rather they are doing it in the hope of turning a quick profit. They think they know exactly what they are doing and are hoping to cash in on a mistake or oversight to make a fortune. We can’t blame them of course. How many of us don’t relish the thought of picking up a rare date or variety nestling unspotted in a junk tray? But ask yourself this: if you see something like an 1804 dollar on the stand of a dealer who doesn’t specialise in coins, isn’t it worth just wondering for a second where he got it from? Isn’t it worth asking how he came by such a delight? And isn’t it worth asking whether or not he doesn’t have one or two just like it under the counter? Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that there are no bargains to be had any more, but let’s be honest about it, such things happen very, very rarely and to believe that you’ve struck it rich by buying a 1933 penny from somebody on an internet auction site whose previous sales have been fake perfumes and dodgy handbags is naivety in the extreme. The answer of course is simple: if you see something a little bit suspect then walk away—because you can guarantee if it looks too good to be true, it will be. It’s easy really, just steer clear of the cowboys and those whose reputations leave something to be desired. Get to know, and buy from, only the regular, bona fide dealers and above all get to know your coins—only by handling real coins will you ever truly be able to spot a fake. Yes, there are fakes out there, as there are with everything valuable from paintings to watches to designer shirts, but they will only really become a problem in this hobby if people keep buying them, and people are only buying them in the hope of getting rich quickly by getting a bargain and selling it on or because they aren’t prepared to pay the “going rate” for something they want in their collection. If you value your hobby, indeed if you value your collection, you won’t buy this tat; you won’t succumb to the lure of the easy money or the cheap option; you’ll buy only from those dealers that you, and everyone else in the trade, trusts (and it doesn’t matter which medium you use to buy—bona fide dealers are selling on-line too—just because something is on the internet doesn’t make it bad, just be sure you know who you’re buying from) and you will shun those who peddle such rubbish. If there isn’t a market for fakes those making them will soon move on to something else but for as long as collectors want something for nothing, want to make that fast buck, then these things will still be around. We have the power to do something about this situation—let’s start now.

Stop Thief

Phil Mussell — 20/11/2009 10:42:00

STOLEN during October 2009 from a private house in E Devon 14/15 Trio to S/N M Hankinson TFNS/QAIMNS plus silver Nursing Badge St Pancras Hospital engraved M Hankinson 1 October 1906 in brown box of issue together with BWM and Victory to 9583 Cpl A R Hankinson KRRC. Please contact DC C Campbell D&C Constabulary Honiton 08452 777444 Ext. 2639. Crime Ref: KH/09/939

Record price for a VC

Phil Mussell — 20/11/2009 10:12:00

A new world record auction price for a Victoria Cross to a British recipient (Flight Lieutenant W. 'Bill' Reid).was set at Spink on November 19 2009. The medal group sold for a staggering £348,000 (£290,000 plus 20% premiumn) to an anonymous bidder in the room. According to the Daily Mail on November 20 that anonymous the buyer was Melissa John, sister of well known medal collector Chris John who died last year at just 47. The newspaper reports that she bought the group "in memory of him" as he had alwasy wanted to own a Victoria Cross

The following is taken from the Spink Catalogue:

'The Outstanding Second War Bomber Command Victoria Cross Group of Six to Lancaster Pilot, Flight Lieutenant W. 'Bill' Reid, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who whilst on a sortie with 61 Squadron to Dusseldorf, 3.11.1943, was 'wounded in two [fighter] attacks, without oxygen, suffering severely from cold, his navigator dead, his wireless operator fatally wounded, his aircraft crippled and defenceless, Flight Lieutenant Reid Showed Superb Courage and Leadership in penetrating a further 200 miles into enemy territory to attack one of the most strongly defended targets in Germany, every additional mile increasing the hazards of the long perilous journey home.' He was later posted to the famous 617 'Dam Busters' Squadron with whom he was 'Bombed-Out' on a 'Tall Boy' sortie over Rilly La Montagne, 31.7.1944, 'just as he emerged, the Lancaster broke in two and Reid tumbled down, accompanied by a hail of metal fragments from his aircraft.' He and his wireless operator survived to be taken prisoner of war, tragically the rest of the crew perished in the crippled plane.

'On the night of November 3rd, 1943, Flight Lieutenant Reid was pilot and captain of a Lancaster aircraft detailed to attack Dusseldorf. Shortly after crossing the Dutch coast, the pilot's windscreen was shattered by fire from a Messerschmitt 110. Owing to a failure in the heating circuit, the rear gunner's hands were too cold for him to open fire immediately or to operate his microphone and so give warning of danger; but after a brief delay he managed to return the Messerschmitt's fire and it was driven off. During the fight with the Messerschmitt, Flight Lieutenant Reid was wounded in the head, shoulders and hands. The elevator trimming tabs of the aircraft were damaged and it became difficult to control. The rear turret, too, was badly damaged and the communications system and compasses were put out of action. Flight Lieutenant Reid ascertained that his crew were unscathed and, saying nothing about his own injuries, he continued his mission. Soon afterwards, the Lancaster was attacked by a Focke Wulf 190. This time, the enemy's fire raked the bomber from stern to stern. The rear gunner replied with his only serviceable gun but the state of his turret made accurate aiming impossible. The navigator was killed and the wireless operator fatally injured. The mid-upper turret was hit and the oxygen system put out of action. Flight Lieutenant Reid was again wounded and the flight engineer, though hit in the forearm, supplied him with oxygen from a portable supply.

Flight Lieutenant Reid refused to be turned from his objective and Dusseldorf was reached some 50 minutes later. He had memorised his course to the target and had continued in such a normal manner that the bomb-aimer, who was cut off by the failure of the communications system, knew nothing of his captain's injuries or of the casualties to his comrades. Photographs show that, when the bombs were released, the aircraft was right over the centre of the target.

Steering by the pole star and the moon, Flight Lieutenant Reid then set course for home. He was growing weak from loss of blood. The emergency oxygen supply had given out. With the windscreen shattered, the cold was intense. He lapsed into semi-consciousness. The flight engineer, with some help from the bomb-aimer, kept the Lancaster in the air despite heavy anti-aircraft fire over the Dutch coast.

The North Sea crossing was accomplished. An airfield was sighted. The captain revived, resumed control and made ready to land. Ground mist partially obscured the runway lights. The captain was also much bothered by the blood from his head wound getting into his eyes. But he made a safe landing although one leg of the damaged undercarriage collapsed when the load came on.

Wounded in two attacks, without oxygen, suffering severely from cold, his navigator dead, his wireless operator fatally wounded, his aircraft crippled and defenceless, Flight Lieutenant Reid showed superb courage and leadership in penetrating a further 200 miles into enemy territory to attack one of the most strongly defended targets in Germany, every additional mile increasing the hazards of the long perilous journey home. His tenacity and devotion to duty were beyond praise.'

Britannia - November 22. IT'S THIS SUNDAY

Phil Mussell — 18/11/2009 14:11:00

Are you coming to Britannia this Sunday? It's now officially (and by some margin) the UK's biggest MEDAL FAIR with over 30 dealers stalling out. They are:

Bonhams

Philip Burman

Andrew Bostock

John Cannon

Mark Carter

Chelsea Military Antiques

Chester Militaria

Peter Cotrel (unfortunately Peter is unwell so may not be able to make it)

David Desborough

CJ & AJ Dixon

DNW

Tom Donovan

David Empson

Find-a-medal.com

Bill Friar Medals

Andrew Fryer

Gordon's Medals

Great War Medals

Tony Hall

M&D Medals

John Manning

Medals of England.com

Morton and Eden

Peter Morris

The O.M.R.S

George Rankin

Steve Sewell

Murray Shaw

Spink

V J C Collectables

Fred Walland

Waterloo Militaria

Stephen Wheeler

And of course the Token Publishing Team

The show starts at 9.30am in the Carisbrooke Hall, Victory Services Club, Seymour Street (just off Marble Arch) on November 22 and goes on until 2.00pm

See you there!!

50p celebrates the Girl Guides

Phil Mussell — 18/11/2009 13:10:00

100 years of the Girl Guides is the theme for the 2010 50 pence - interestingly two designers initials appear on the rather simple reverse - we're not quite sure why it needed two people to come up with the fetching but fairly straightforward design but it seems that that is the case with Jonathan Evans and Donna Hainan both being credited with the work.

We're also not sure just how many of these 50pences will actually ever be seen - after all the standard design will still have to be issued (otherwise the shield will be incomplete) and of course we start the 2012 Olympic 50p issue in April. The UK will, it seems, be awash with new 50 pences next year!

Florence Nightingale �2 design

Phil Mussell — 18/11/2009 13:05:00

The circulating £2 coin for 2010 will be a tribute to the Crimean War nurse Florence Nightingale 100 years after her death. The rather stylised design, depicting Florence's healing hands holding a patient's hand (the hands are artfully designed to ensure that the nurse and the patient are easily told apart) will appear in our pockets next year - let us know when you see one!

Brand New One pound Series launched

Phil Mussell — 18/11/2009 12:55:00

The Royal Mint today unveiled their new look £1 coins for 2010 and for the first time we're to be treated to a coin that has not one but FOUR reverses. Ok That's not actually true but what they've done is very clever - the coin has been designed to represent each one of the Capital cities of the constituent Countries of the UK with the first released being Belfast and London. However it isn't ONLY the representation of that city that appears - all four cities will have their symbol on the reverses - just slightly smaller. So with the Belfast coin it's the Belfast reverse that takes up the majority of the space with Edinburgh, Cardiff and London at the bottom. It sounds complicated but really it isn't and actually it's really quite clever - have a look at the picture and you'll see what I mean! See the January 2010 COIN NEWS for further information

Stop Thief - 3 generations of medals stolen.

Phil Mussell — 11/11/2009 12:08:00

Again local to us down here in Devon a burglar has left another veteran distrught. We'll post more details about recipients etc.as soon as we know them, we are in touch with the local police, but in the mean time the bare bones of the story can be seen here www.thisisexeter.co.uk/news/Exeter-hero-s-medals-plea-thief/article-1502085-detail/article.html

The only information we have at this stage is somewhat confusing but we have ascertained that the following medals have been stolen:

General Service Medal clasp South Arabia awarded to P H F Bourne RM

Africa Star, Defence and War (with MID) Air Efficiency, J H Bourne RAF

QSA (Clasp Cape Colony), KSA R Wright

Also assorted medals to Cochrane

More information as we get it.

Through the roof?

Phil Mussell — 10/11/2009 11:45:00

Gold continues its seemingly relentless upwards trend on Monday November 9 it peaked at over $1,100 an ounce - quite a remarkable sum. Can the trend continue or will the bubble burst....?

Read the full story at news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8351154.stm

London Coin Fair November 7

Phil Mussell — 05/11/2009 10:43:00

We're gearing up for the last LCF of the year - held as ever at the popular Holiday Inn, Bloomsbury just off Coram Street. The venue is one of the best ones on the "circuit" and is always well attended by dealers and collectors alike, John and Carol are making the trip up the A303 this time and will be taking with them our usual stock of books (including all the Krause Catalogues and our new COIN YEARBOOK and MEDAL YEARBOOK) as well as a wide range of accessories - why not come along and say hello....!

A cross to bear.

Phil Mussell — 02/11/2009 14:55:00

FORGIVE me if I split this “Comment” in two but there are a couple of things that need my attention this month and they can’t really be amalgamated into one editorial. The first concerns the latest “medal” to be issued—the Elizabeth Cross. Now, whilst I wholeheartedly support the institution of this badge given to the next of kin of those who lose their lives whilst on active duty, I cannot help but feel the retrospective nature of the criteria, and the fact that only one Cross is awarded per fatality, could well lead to all sorts of problems. Take for example the case of a young soldier who lost his life in the Falklands Conflict. He was newly married but had still listed his mother and then father as next of kin. In the intervening years his parents have divorced in an acrimonious split and his mother now lives in America, his widow has remarried and the MoD have long lost touch with all members of the family. The father hears about the Elizabeth Cross and applies for it and it is duly sent to him. Some months later the widow hears about it and she wants to apply, only to find the Cross has already been awarded. After all, the MoD is under no obligation to try and trace any other members of the family who might have a better claim, so why shouldn’t they have awarded the Cross to the father? And what about when the mother returns from the States and learns about the Cross? She too will want to apply for it, but she too will be thwarted—this will inevitably lead to tabloid stories featuring grieving widow and/or grieving mother for whom the pain of loss is exacerbated by their being told that they can’t have the official Commemoration of their loved one’s life for it has gone elsewhere. This is hardly going to be the sort of publicity the Government wants associated with this latest offering and I question the wisdom of inviting such problems by making the eligibility so chronologically wide-reaching. Far better, I would have thought, to make the award eligible only to the next of kin of those lost in the recent Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts. At least in those cases the possibilities of family politics getting in the way are far less! I’m being cynical of course, and I do hope that such problems do not occur, but when you realise that the award will span over 60 years and that inevitably there will have been deaths, splits and family schisms in that time, you will see that working out who is eligible to receive the Cross and who isn’t might well not be as straightforward as some might hope. Part of the problem lies in the fact that this is something that must be applied for and as far as I can see there is no clear cut way of the MoD making sure that the person who applies is indeed the person who should receive the Cross. I have spoken with the Medal Office and I am assured they do their best in every case but with so many possibilities and permutations and no clear cut indication of just what the definition of next of kin actually is (is it the father or mother? What about a live-in partner of many years? Are they less eligible than husband or wife? What about a legitimate child versus an illegitimate one? And so on. Another problem lies with the time-span involved. As the years have gone on so it has become more and more likely that those once listed as “Next of Kin” by the service personnel who fell are themselves no longer with us and now perhaps only distant branches of the family are still around to claim. There was no clear way round this of course, even multiple awards wouldn’t have pleased everybody, but given the scenarios outlined above it easy to see how the award of the Elizabeth Cross could become a bone of contention for some. On an entirely different note I beg your forgiveness for shamelessly promoting our Britannia Medal Fair once again. If you take a look on pages 36–37 of this issue you’ll see that word has spread about the success of the last fair and that this time around the show, on November 22, features more than 30 dealers from across the UK, making this, without a doubt, the country’s biggest medal fair! I do hope you’ll be able to come along to the Victory Services Club in Seymour Street just off Marble Arch. If you do you’ll find some of the best medals in the country on offer as well as some great catering facilities and a warm welcome! It is free entry for MEDAL NEWS readers and we’re offering everyone who comes through the door a £2 gift voucher to spend with us and the chance to win £100 to spend with anyone of the dealers stalling out on the day. Come along if you can—this is the MEDAL NEWS show for MEDAL NEWS readers and together we can make it the best medal show in the world. I look forward to meeting you on the day!

Stop Thief - Elizabeth Cross missing

Phil Mussell — 28/10/2009 10:51:00

Stolen in the postal system (the envelope was delivered, contents removed) an Elizabeth Cross engraved Captain G. Shaw Ulster Defence Regiment. His widow was returning it as the Captain had been promoted to Major shortly before his death and the rank was incorrect.

Any information to the Medal News office please

Gone missing

Phil Mussell — 23/10/2009 12:24:00

Would readers please keep an eye out for two RAF log books of Air Vice Marshal Leonard William George GILL, DSO. They have gone missing, in the London area in the past two months and could surface attached to a group at some point in the future - if anyone sees them please do get in touch with us at the MEDAL NEWS office.

Bun penny smashes record

Phil Mussell — 23/10/2009 09:33:00

Coinex comes home Last month I wrote about the (then) forthcoming Coinex fair, the British Numismatic Trade Association’s (BNTA) flagship show, and wondered whether the move to its new home of the Millennium Mayfair Hotel, Grosvenor Square, London would be a successful one. Well now, a few days after the event, I can say that yes, I believe on the whole it was. The location itself was nothing if not salubrious (even if it was very reminiscent of the “old days” and the Marriott just around the corner) and the main room (and indeed the foyer and smaller Waterloo Room off to one side) were plush enough to declare to everyone that this was going to be a top-class affair. Coinex has struggled in recent years to develop an identity all its own—was it trying to be a top-class, top-drawer bourse attracting serious numismatists (and serious money) from across the globe or was it trying to be the biggest “massmarket” coin fair in the country? At the DNW sponsored reception (and the International Association of Professional Numismatists’ prize giving) the night before the bourse opened, Chris Martin, the current BNTA chairman, set the record straight. This event was to be the crème de la crème of UK numismatics, the BNTA wanted to attract the best; the best dealers, the best customers and the best coins. The message was clear—there were many other coin fairs that you could attend to buy coins, every month sees a coin fair somewhere in the country and at least two very popular ones are held in the Capital regularly, but if you wanted the absolute best then Coinex should be the place to come to find it. That wasn’t to say there weren’t affordable pieces in the room the following day, far from it, the range on offer was commendable—from the simplest Roman bronzes and modern milled through to the rarities seen only occasionally, there was still something for everyone and indeed the collectors themselves seemed pleased enough. Admittedly the best coins would have gone to those happy to pay the £30 “early bird” entrance fee on the Friday morning rather than those who used their free COIN NEWS ticket to come in Friday afternoon or Saturday but no matter, everyone knows that that is the way things are at coin fairs—and you can’t expect to pick up that elusive rarity or stunning bargain if you come in hours after the initial rush. What you did get though, no matter when you came in, was a good array of coins and a wide variety of dealers to choose them from. Admittedly there were perhaps fewer dealers than last year, one or two notable by their self-imposed absence, but to be honest the room’s size meant getting any more tables into the bourse would have been a problem. As things were the numbers, both of dealers and collectors, was just about right. In fact numbers for the Saturday were, if anything, up on previous years, certainly we at the COIN NEWS stand were busy throughout the two days rather than finding ourselves twiddling our thumbs half way through the second! Another sign, perhaps of the strength of the hobby as much as the strength of the event? Inevitably it wasn’t all plain sailing, there were one or two unhappy faces in the room and the smaller number of dealers and the few noted absentees did draw criticism that the variety of coins available wasn’t as great as in previous years but that sort of talk was bound to happen, you’re never going to please all of the people all of the time, and there will always be those who won’t be happy no matter what the BNTA, or indeed any other show organiser, tries to do. As fair organisers ourselves (we now run the Britannia Medal Show at the Victory Services Club, just off Marble Arch, the next one is on November 22—come along if you’re at all interested in medals, free entry to COIN NEWS readers!) we know that despite our best efforts there will always be those who seek to tell us where we have gone wrong and that has certainly been the case with Coinex in recent years, but we certainly aren’t going to add our voices to that group. We believe that with the decision to be at the very pinnacle of the UK coin trade the BNTA has made the right move; there are, as was pointed out, plenty of other coin fairs to choose from—but there’s only one Coinex. We haven’t changed our view on a couple of things though—we would still be eager to see the BNTA join forces with the IBNS and create a wonderful “weekend of money” rather than see the two hobbies split as they were again this year and, most importantly, we would still urge the Association to remember that elite doesn’t necessary mean elitist and you can have a crème de la crème event that welcomes everyone; but all that aside we will give praise where praise is due and say “Well done”, Coinex worked this year and we look forward to the BNTA building on that success in 2010.

Heading North

Phil Mussell — 21/10/2009 13:17:00

The Token Team will be at Eddy Smith's Leeds (Wakefield) show on Sunday (October 25) held as always at the Cedar Court Hotel, Wakefield (just by Junction 39 of the M1). This popular show continues to go from strength to strength and we always try and get up there at least once or twice a year. This month we will, of course have our BRAND NEW Coin and Medal Yearbooks on offer as well as a wide range of other books and collectors' accessories - why not come and say hello!

Britannia - the latest

Phil Mussell — 21/10/2009 10:25:00

It's only a month now until the next MEDAL NEWS Britannia fair and we are finalising the list of dealers attending - would you believe there are going to be 32! That's individual dealers not tables - the table count is far higher! That means Britannia is officially the biggest medal fair in the country!

Dealers coming to the Victory Services Club, Seymour Street (just off Marble Arch) on November 22 are as follows:

Bonhams

Philip Burman

Andrew Bostock

John Cannon

Mark Carter

Chelsea Military Antiques

Chester Militaria

Peter Cotrel

David Desborough

CJ & AJ Dixon

DNW

Tom Donovan

David Empson

Find-a-medal.com

Bill Friar Medals

Andrew Fryer

Gordon's Medals

Great War Medals

Tony Hall

M&D Medals

John Manning

Medals of England.com

Morton and Eden

Peter Morris

The O.M.R.S

Steve Sewell

Murray Shaw

Spink

V J C Collectables

Fred Walland

Waterloo Militaria

Stephen Wheeler

And of course the Token Publishing Team

See you there!!

Postal Strike

Phil Mussell — 13/10/2009 10:10:00

Whatever your thoughts on the looming industrial action by postal workers are the fact is that a strike will inconvenience most of us - those of us trying to run a mail order business most of all. In order to minimise the impact of the strikes we are looking at alternative means of getting books and magazines out to our customers (larger orders already go by courier) so please don't stop ordering just because you fear things may not arrive - they will - I promise!

Overseas customers will not be affected as we don't use the Royal Mail for any international post.

And of course for our subscribers there is always the FREE digital magazine - a web based version of COIN NEWS or MEDAL NEWS identical to the paper version but with added hot links for websites and email. If you haven't signed up for it (it's totally free for UK and World Airmail/European subscribers) then let us know your email address straight away and we'll do the rest!

"Blue Peter" 50p coin launched

Phil Mussell — 13/10/2009 08:38:00

The first UK coin designed by a child (no quips about previous designs thank you) has been unveiled by the Royal Mint. The coin - the first in a series of 29 50pence pieces designed to represent a different Olympic or Paralympic sport in the run up to the London Olympics in 2012 was designed by nine year old Florence Jackson of Bristol (who chose the theme of teh high jump) following an open competition on the BBCs "Blue Peter" television show.

For more details see the BBC story news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8302165.stm

Reform of the Umayyad coinage

Phil Mussell — 07/10/2009 16:23:00

Getting together AS I write this Editorial the skies are grey, the wind is whipping up and there’s a definite chill in the air—yes, I accept that this description could have been of any given day in our “barbecue summer” of 2009 (overseas readers will just have to bear with us on this —UK readers will know EXACTLY what I’m talking about!), but in fact it’s now September and autumn is coming in, and with it so the new numismatic season gets under way. The launch pad of the season has always been the British Numismatic Association’s “Coinex” show in London, for years held at the Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Square. However, the fair has moved about in the past few years, first going to the Excel Centre in the Docklands and then moving latterly to Earl’s Court. This year it is on the move again, heading back into the centre of the Capital and again to Grosvenor Square in the West End of London: the Millennium Mayfair Hotel being its new home. Coinex has always been something of a unique show, with no-one quite sure whether it should be seen as an all-inclusive coin fair for the masses or an elite event for the hardened numismatists. Personally I feel it should be a mixture of both: an elite trade show showcasing the best numismatics has to offer, whilst also welcoming all with open arms—let us hope that this new venue allows them to do just that. Of course no matter what the BNTA do, they will never be able to compete with some of the larger international shows —as we saw when we visited the American Numismatic Association’s (ANA) “World Fair of Money” in Los Angeles in August. This huge event is attended by dealers and collectors from across the globe but, more importantly, it is supported by hundreds of dealers from the USA. Like so many things American it is vast and as the hobby in this country doesn’t have the same following, or anywhere near the number of dealers involved as it does Stateside, there is no chance we’ll ever be able to hold an event on such a sprawling scale—but then would we want to? The ANA is held over the best part of a week—it needs to be to both allow collectors to visit every table and to encourage those who have to travel vast distances to get there to attend (after all, would you travel 3,000 miles just to attend a fair that was all over in a few hours? I doubt it), but is that something we would want to embrace over here? There are moans enough from some quarters about two day shows, with the second day always being far quieter than the first, and it is hard to see how anything longer would ever take off in the UK. Our British mentality seems very much to treat the coin show as a means of acquisition, a place to buy coins and little more. Yes, of course, collectors do get together in the venue’s bar or in nearby restaurants to pore over their new purchases, but in the main the fair is just a “shop window”, a place where coins can be bought and sold in person rather than on-line and little more. It is very much “in and out” and once the dealing is done, the show is over and everyone goes home, there is nothing else to do. There are conventions and “congresses” over here of course and they do sometimes have small bourses, or at least members’ own offerings available, but even they are generally weekend only affairs with everyone keen to get back to the “real world” come Monday. Is there any mileage, I wonder, in trying to stretch things out a little? Maybe amalgamate a convention, with its dinners, speeches, etc., with a coin fair? Personally I feel not, the hobby here is different from that in the US. I can’t say exactly why and every time I try I fail—it isn’t that our numismatists are less passionate than theirs. It isn’t that we don’t have people keen to sit and talk coins for days and it isn’t that we aren’t as keen to see this hobby prosper as they are. But there is a difference although I just can’t quite work out what! That all said, I will jump on my soap box briefly and say that whilst I don’t see the UK ever hosting a huge ANAstyle “World Fair”, I do think that we need to somehow get our act together when it comes to the fairs that we do hold. Once again this year the International Bank Note Society Congress (IBNS) and Coinex clash, which means that there are two hugely important “money” events going on at the same time in different parts of London. Surely it would have made more sense to somehow combine the two, wouldn’t it? OK, so we’re never going to have a week-long “money fest” in this country, but a weekend spent in one good central venue, with both coin and banknote collectors and dealers (who like us with our related publications are often one and the same) able to make the most of both sides of the hobby in ease and comfort, certainly holds some appeal! Maybe next year . . . !

From Balaklava to Windsor

Phil Mussell — 07/10/2009 16:23:00

A bold move, but . . . Don’t miss the next Britannia Medal Fair on November 22 — why not bring a friend with the free entry ticket enclosed? THIS “Comment” is being written at the absolute last minute. The magazine is all ready, it’s on the presses, but I couldn’t give the go-ahead to print until after the new look Orders and Medals Research Society (OMRS) Convention had taken place (on September 20) as I felt there would be something to report and that our readers who couldn’t attend would like to know a little about what they had missed. Convention 2009 was a bold move for the OMRS—the event has been held in the New Connaught Rooms near Covent Garden for well over a decade and was firmly established there. However, for various reasons, a move was necessary and the BMA in Tavistock Square was chosen as the new venue. With the change of venue came a change of tack, with the emphasis of Convention being taken away from it being a “Medal Fair with exhibits” and towards being more of a research weekend with talks, exhibits, etc., on the Saturday and a bourse on the Sunday. From what we hear, the Saturday was a great success and enjoyed by most, if not all of those who decided to make a weekend of it. However, I can only really comment on the Sunday’s event as we, as a commercial organisation, were there to launch our Medal Yearbook 2010 and “stall out” to meet the collectors and, hopefully, cover the expenses of three of us and two cars (those Yearbooks are heavy—one car just won’t do the job) on a trip to London from Devon. Initially we had been worried that the lack of porters and the tighter security at the new venue would be a problem — we had been told that we had 15-minute slots to unload—not an easy task when you have as much stock as we did, but in fact it was simple. A lift near the unloading door and the unloading time slots not rigorously enforced meant that the day started well and we viewed the salubrious new room with optimism. It was certainly a smaller venue than the previous cavernous room, but well lit and well appointed, and it had the upmarket feel that Convention needs. Whilst it was a bit of a trek to get to the main room from the foyer, that’s academic and, certainly at first glance, you could see why it had been chosen. Unfortunately whilst the new venue might have been a worthy successor to the new Connaught Rooms, in some ways it carried its own problems. The pre-registration of all attendees was a requirement of the BMA, for security purposes, and this was rigidly enforced, meaning that you couldn’t just “turn up” on the day. That, coupled with the fact that it was absolutely “members only” this year, so no guests or even partners of members (unless family members in their own right) could come along, meant that numbers were inevitably down. This knowledge in turn had led to quite a few of the dealers either reducing the number of tables they had or not coming at all, and there were a number of high profile dealers noticeable by their absence. This meant that the 2009 event was very much a shadow of its former self, with far fewer dealers catering for fewer attendees. Now, in theory, that should have been OK. After all, if you have 30 medal dealers catering for 500 visitors, then surely half that number (there were 13 actual medal dealers at the Convention this year with the other tables being taken up by publishers, book sellers, auction houses and of course the OMRS themselves), catering for fewer people would work out the same . . . wouldn’t it? Unfortunately not. Those who did attend the bourse this year were the die-hard medal collectors, the “serious” buyers in the hobby, and they, of course, were already familiar with the vast majority of stock on offer as they were already good customers of most of the dealers who stalled out! This inevitably meant that as a commercial venture for many of the dealers, it simply wasn’t worth it. It also, to a certain extent, annoyed the attendees as they didn’t have the opportunity to view new medals and instead were faced with items they’d known about for some time—this, of course, meant that they didn’t hang around for long and, quite shockingly, the room was empty by 2.30pm (not the OMRS’s fault at all as they had the room booked until 5.00pm but there just weren’t enough dealers to hold the attention of the visitors, and vice versa!) Not all fared badly of course. I spoke to most of the dealers in the room on the day and some had had an excellent show, one in particular stating it to be his best ever. But others really hadn’t had a good day and the feeling amongst those was that the move and the new look Convention really wasn’t for them: they wanted as many people as possible through the door, not just their existing customers. However, that was never going to happen, not at this venue. There were other problems with the BMA too: the OMRS had provided complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits, but there were no other catering facilities and there was nowhere decent nearby to grab a good lunch or a pint and pore over your new purchases with a friend, something that had become something of a fixture with the previous venue. In addition, the move to a Sunday had angered some who simply couldn’t get into the capital because public transport is so sporadic on the Sabbath. Of course, it’s easy for me to sit at my desk and criticise the OMRS for Convention 2009, and it did have its faults. But there were plus points too, that must not be forgotten, and certainly I hear only good things about the Saturday and the research side of things. When all is said and done they are a Research Society after all and are to be highly commended for making Convention into more than just a medal fair—at this time of year there is hardly a dearth of those! The OMRS will never please all of the people all of the time but they tried their best this year. Unfortunately from a commercial point of view, for many the bourse was not a success and that will inevitably lead to questions about next year. It’s catch 22: if the dealers aren’t there, the visitors won’t come; if the visitors aren’t there, and spending, the dealers won’t want to attend. So what can the OMRS do? The research side of things, the coming together to “talk medals”, went down well. It was only the bourse that faltered (and even then it certainly wasn’t a disaster, it just wasn’t what it has been in the past), but without a bourse is there a Convention? Personally I feel “yes”, there can be, and that maybe the future for the Convention lies that way: in steering away from a bourse completely and concentrating solely on a weekend of research, exhibits, talks, etc. But that’s very much a personal opinion and it will be a very tough decision to make. I certainly wouldn’t like to be in the committee’s shoes when it comes to deciding what to do next.

Coinex is coming!

Phil Mussell — 28/09/2009 17:17:00

Are you coming to Coinex this weekend (Friday 2 - Saturday 3 October)? Taking place at the Millennium Mayfair Hotel, Grosvenor Square, the BNTA's premier Coin Fair regularly attracts dealers and collectors from across the globe - see this month's COIN NEWS for a full list of dealers attending.

We'll be there - we hope you will too - if you do make it then come and say hello to Phil - it's his birthday on the Saturday!

Making money

Phil Mussell — 17/09/2009 17:37:00

Following the success of the "Totnes" and Lewes £s it seems that other areas are cottoning on to the idea of making money in the recession....

Brixton, an area not immediately associated with private banking has produced its own "Brixton pounds" in an attempt to keep money within the local economy. It's an idea used elsewhere in the UK - and reported in COIN NEWS - and one that looks et to continue.

For the full story see news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/8245276.stm

Stratford upon Avon - October 18

Phil Mussell — 16/09/2009 11:09:00

Stratford's a lovely town, if you haven't been before you really should get along there - and what better excuse than combining your trip with a visit to the Stratford Medal Fair held at the leisure centre in the very heart of the town?

As with all of Mark Carter's fairs it starts at 9.30am for the preview andg oes on until about 2.30pm - but get there early it's generally all over before the official end time. That said it's always very popular and well attended both by dealers and collectors and well worth the trip. We'll be there with our new books - in particular the BRAND NEW MEDAL YEARBOOK 2010. What more could you ask....?!

Yate? We'll be there

Phil Mussell — 16/09/2009 11:05:00

Our "local" show is one we always try to attend and the one on October 4 will be the first with the BRAND NEW MEDAL YEARBOOK 2010!

Mark Carter's fairs are always well attended by both dealers and collectors alike and are always a pleasure to go to - as always it's being held in the Yate Leisure Centre (not too far from Chipping Sodbury) and starts at 9.30am for "preview" - come along then f you can, it only costs a little more than standard entry (which starts at 10.30am) and you may well bag an early-bird bargain!

The missing penny - Radio 4!

Phil Mussell — 03/09/2009 16:56:00

Those who missed Phil's BBC Radio 4 programme on the "Missing Penny" - the story of the 1933 penny - when it was brodacast last year - well now's your chance to "listen again". It's being repeated on Radio 4 on Wednesday September 9 at 9.30am!

The right direction

Phil Mussell — 03/09/2009 16:55:00

THERE was a time when the medal fair was, apart from a visit to a specialist shop or an auction, the only way a collector could add to their collection. It was also an ideal way to dispose of unwanted items and boost your cash reserves (although invariably the ready cash you’d just pocketed would be fished out again before the end of the day and spent on a new acquisition—often from the same dealer you’d sold to!). Then came the internet and things changed. Suddenly the on-line auctions gave the collector a way of getting a good price for his “surplus” and allowed him to buy too. Dealers all had websites and the fairs were no longer such an essential part of the business—some thought they would die altogether. That hasn’t happened; indeed the fairs have come back into fashion in recent years as any regular visitor to Yate, Aldershot, Bromley, Wakefield, the new Britannia (next one November 22—make a note) or any of the other popular venues on “the circuit” will tell you. It seems that collectors realise that there is no real substitute for looking at and touching the medals first hand and that dealing with somebody face to face is infinitely more preferable to dealing with a username or disembodied voice. The internet sales, forums, etc., still boom, of course they do. They are, in the main a great asset to the hobby and after all not everyone can get to a fair. But the important thing is that fairs have proved more resilient than many gave them credit for and as we come out of the first decade of the 21st century all facets of the hobby are finding they can slot together nicely . . . or can they? There is no doubt that auctions, be they live or internet are here to stay; dealers’ websites are essential; the fairs are seeing a new lease of life, but will this extend to the conventions I wonder? This month sees the first “new look” two day OMRS Annual Convention, with talks, seminars, exhibits, etc., on the Saturday and the bourse on the Sunday. It’s a brave move and one designed to take the Society back to its research roots and away from being seen simply as a fair organiser, but is that what the collectors want? MEDAL NEWS (well Phil anyway) has just come back from the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and whilst the event was excellently organised, as ever, and a pleasure for us to attend, it has to be said that it wasn’t as vibrant as it has been in recent years and there were some notable absences. There were a number of people who we’d grown accustomed to seeing year in year out who simply didn’t come to this one and whilst the location of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel (a lovely hotel in a beautiful spot, but not the easiest place to get to) and the current economic climate might have had something to do with it, we can’t help but feel that for many with ailing health a four day event is just too much. Of course conversely, if you shrink the event down too much it won’t be worth members travelling thousands of miles to attend. It’s very much a “catch 22” and how the organisers tackle the problem in coming years remains to be seen (for those interested next year’s convention is to be held in Portland, Oregon and in 2011 it is back to Jacksonville, Florida). It is sad to report that the numbers of British dealers and visitors was down too, with some notable names missing this year. However, we are proud to say that we kept the Union Flag flying as did the OMRS themselves in the form of Norman and Jean Gooding. The auctioneers and dealers were, this year, represented by James Morton of Morton & Eden (who sponsored the wine for the annual OMSA banquet), Richard Black of Chelsea Military Antiques, Pierce Noonan and Nimrod Dix of DNW and Oliver Pepys and Mark Quayle of Spink, light on their feet as ever, always ready to pounce on that Army Gold Cross group should it come into the room—sadly it just never did. Of course, the OMRS Convention is a different matter entirely—people aren’t crossing thousands of miles of prairie-land to be there and the Committee aren’t proposing a four day event, just a two day one. But is it what collectors want over a “standard” in-and-out show? It seems to have worked quite well at OMRS North but will it work in the capital? And will it attract the overseas visitors? As we will be there ourselves, supporting the Society and launching the MEDAL YEARBOOK, we’ll let you know! As they say in all the best columns: watch this space. No “Comment” about OMSA can run without mention of “Yash” Yasinitsky, the founder of the Society who passed away earlier this year. He was a genuinely lovely man with a real passion for medals and for the Society he formed. Whilst he hadn’t attended recent Conventions because of ill health we had hoped to see him again at a future event, sadly it was not to be. A full obituary appears in the July/August issue of the OMSA Journal.

By Royal Command

Phil Mussell — 24/08/2009 12:29:00

Mule madness... I have long maintained that the hobby of coin collecting is far larger than any of us realise. We know how many COIN NEWS readers we have, know how many people buy the COINYEARBOOK each year, know how many people buy our coin accessories, know how many people attend fairs and how many buy at auction (there’s naturally a huge crossover but not always), but I have never believed that to be the true picture. A few weeks ago the Mail on Sunday ran an article about the 1983 2p and the current craze of the undated 20p, in that article they suggested that anyone wishing to know more about coins or collecting could contact us at Token Publishing for a free sample copy of COIN NEWS. We were inundated. On the Monday after the newspaper came out there were 278 messages on our answer phone and as many emails—all requesting samples. Throughout that day the ‘phone didn’t stop and every member of staff (with the exception of Phil who had somehow managed to arrange a holiday for that week—did he know something we didn’t?) was fl at out taking names and addresses. The same thing happened the next day, and the next, and the next and the next—throughout that week all we did was take names and addresses, stuff envelopes with magazines and despatch them out to the eager public, budding coin collectors all. And it didn’t stop there. The next week was just the same, 100 calls a day or more and, as I write this “Comment” four weeks after the paper was published, the calls are still coming in (why someone would keep a Sunday paper for four weeks is beyond me). To date we have despatched nearly 2,500 samples of the magazine (we rapidly ran out of our usual “sample copies”, the overs we always produce as “giveaways” and had to send out back issues stretching back months and increase the August print run just to keep up with demand) and that is without counting the hundreds who were happy to receive a digital only version. Of course the vast majority of these requests will come to nothing—most of those asking for the magazines being more interested in seeing how to make a fast buck from Royal Mint errors than in the intricacies of numismatics, but already many have borne fruit. We have dozens of new subscribers come in off the back of the giveaway and have now sold out of our (reprinted) COIN YEARBOOK 2009 as people who hadn’t really thought about it before suddenly realised that actually yes, they DO have an interest in coins. This, of course, is our biggest problem. In the real, non-numismatic, world there are thousands, hundreds of thousands, of people who have coin collections. They may be old pre-decimal pennies sitting in a jar or foreign coins brought back from long forgotten trips, they may not be worth anything at all but they are collections—and the people hoarding them are, by definition, coin collectors—but if you tried to tell them that they’d laugh at you. If you don’t believe me ask yourself this—how often have you been with friends and mentioned your hobby only to have them look at you oddly at first, laugh and ask where your anorak is, only to then confess that they too have some old coins somewhere that “maybe you could take a look at sometime”? It happens to us all and is proof, if proof were needed, that the coin world really is far bigger than any of us may think. This theory is backed up by the fact that whenever there is a coin related story (take the 20p for example) it runs and runs—with most of the papers and much of the audio-visual media picking up on it too. So if this is the case why aren’t we selling hundreds of thousands of magazines? Why aren’t the coin fairs turning people away? Where are all these collectors? We know they exist so why do we never hear of them? Sadly I fear we only have ourselves to blame—whether we like it or not we are seen as a little bit too “nerdy” to be “mainstream”, our obsession with die-flaws, over-dates and varieties is too much for the man in the street, he just wants to collect coins because they remind him of his holidays or because they might be worth something one day. He isn’t interested in the minutiae of long cross pennies, the mintmarks on Charles II halfcrowns or tide variations on Edward VII pennies—he just has a few coins in a jar somewhere and doesn’t really think about them much until he’s reminded to by his Sunday paper. But the thing is he could think about them more—all it will take is a little nudge, all that’s needed is for someone to tell him how interesting these things can be. So next time one of your friends says he has some coins he’d like you to look at, don’t glance at them and tell him it is all rubbish (we are all guilty of that—you know we are) just because there is nothing of real numismatic interest or value. Instead take sometime to explain to him, in un-nerd like language please, why these little pieces of metal are so interesting to you and maybe, just maybe, he will start to see things the way you do. The Mail on Sunday and the television coverage recently, has proved that there are many, many more collectors out there than we ever realised. Let’s try not to scare them off!

First Elizabeth Cross Awarded

Phil Mussell — 18/08/2009 20:34:00

Karen Upton, widow of Warrant Officer Sean Upton of the Royal Artillery, killed whilst on patrol in Helmand Province in July, received the first of the new "Elizabeth Crosses" at his Funeral at Catterick.

For full details see the BBC's website at news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/nottinghamshire/8206604.stm

The Last Tommy - Harry Patch RIP

Phil Mussell — 27/07/2009 17:04:00

It is with great sdaness that we learn of the death, at 111, of Harry Patch, former private in the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry, last survivor of the terrible trench warfare of World War I.

Harry took part in the third Battle of Ypres in 1917 (better known as Paschendale) and was invalided out after a shell exploded on his machine gun party, killing his three comrades and wounding him with shrapnel. He was the last British resident eligible to wear the World War I "pair", Henry Allingham, ex RN and RAF last survivor of Jutland having died at age 113 last week.

Brand New Krause now available!

Phil Mussell — 03/07/2009 16:37:00

The latest edition of the Krause Standard catalog (sic) of World Coins 1901-2000 is now available! This essential reference once again comes with the complete book on DVD and is an absolute must for 20th century collecors - order your copy from our on-line shop today!!

"Elizabeth Cross" announced

Phil Mussell — 01/07/2009 15:03:00

A new "medal" akin to the Canadian and New Zealand Memorial Crosses has been announced. The "Elizabeth Cross", looking very much like the Memorial Crosses is the first medal for 60 years to bear the name of the reigning Monarch and will be given to the families and next of kin of all those killed on duty from September 1945 (Palestine) up to the present day - it is estimated that around 8,000 families will be eligible for the new award.

At this stage it is understood that the medal will take the form of a brooch with pin suspension rather than with a ribbon and only one (along with a miniature) will be issued - to the Next of Kin of the deceased. In the case of a married serviceman or woman that will mean their husband or wife but in unmarried cases it appears that the father will be the recipient. In this day and age with so many divorces and broken families that is sure to be a contentious issue - how long we wonder before "official copies" are available....?

See here for further details http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1196791/Elizabeth-Cross-given-families-Britains-war-dead.html

More on the 20p....

Phil Mussell — 01/07/2009 14:54:00

Well apparently they're selling for well over £7,000 now......www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1196644/Rare-20p-coin-sells-7-100-eBay-thats-35-500-times-face-value.html

Pte J Barry

Phil Mussell — 01/07/2009 14:52:00

If anyone has any information on the medals of 19932 Pte J Barry of the South Lancashire Regiment please contact the Medal News office on 01404 46972

The coin with no date!

Phil Mussell — 29/06/2009 09:00:00

Incredibly this is suddenly big news - but we broke the story back in December 2008!

Here's what we had to say back then......

Check your change everybody - after 25 years (the last instance being with the 1983 New Pence/Two pence reverse) the Royal Mint have let a mule slip through their usually strict quality control!

The 20p coin has been minted with the old obverse and new "jigsaw puzzle" reverse so of course it has no date - at this stage we don't know how many coins got out but it won't be many so start looking!

As far as we're aware this is the first time, since the advent of milled coinage certainly, that a circulating coin has appeared with no date.

A Royal Mint spokesperson said:

�The Royal Mint can confirm that a small number of new design 20 pence coins have been incorrectly struck using the obverse from the previous design, resulted in these coins having no date.

�The issue has now been resolved and the Royal Mint would like to reassure members of the public that these coins are legal tender.

�Prior to the new reverse designs which were launched in April 2008, the date appeared on the reverse side of the 20p. As the date on the new designs has been moved to the obverse side, minting the coin with the new reverse but previous obverse has meant no date appears on the coin.�

We understand that currently these coins are being bought by the London Mint Office at �50 each!

Solidus at Spink

Phil Mussell — 25/06/2009 15:44:00

Stop Press***Stop Press***Stop Press

An important ninth century Anglo-Frisian Solidus, recently found near Salisbury, fetches �9,300 at auction at Spink in London - see the August COIN NEWS (On sale July 22) for further details

Medals of dishonour

Phil Mussell — 25/06/2009 15:41:00

Commemorative medals are usually struck to celebrate a famous victory, an invention, a worthy life well lived - not, apparently, always - as this exhibition at the British Museum demonstrates.....! Click here for details!

Coins in the news

Phil Mussell — 19/06/2009 16:04:00

Phil was on the radio again this week - on the Roy Noble Programme (BBC Radio Wales) talking about the new �5 "Henry VIII" crown. He'll be appearing on BBC Radio Devon next week talking on the same subject. We tend to forget that outside our hobby people are still genuinely interested in the coins of the realm - Phil's regular radio "appearances" are testament to that.

How many "coin" stories appear in newspapers/on radio/TV etc every month I wonder - I bet it's more than we think. Maybe our readers can let us know when they spot one!

World Paper Money Volume III - new edition

Phil Mussell — 19/06/2009 16:02:00

A brand new edition (The 12th) of "the standard catalog of World Paper Money Volume III 1961-date" is available now! It came into us this week and is hot off the press - order your copy today

Congratulations Joe!

Carol — 17/06/2009 16:17:00

It was a long way to go for dinner (8 hour round trip) but we wouldn't have missed it. Yesterday, June 16, John Mussell, Phil Mussell and Carol Hartman joined coin and medal dealer Giuseppe Miceli in Northampton to celebrate his 40 years of being in business. Friends, family and business associates joined Joe, as he is affectionately known, for a superb dinner at a river-side restaurant. There have been many ups and downs for Joe over the years however he keeps smiling and continues to keep busy buying and selling coins and medals via his regular lists. We extend to him many congratulations and of course thanks for his kind hospitality.

New faces for the �50 note!

Phil Mussell — 30/05/2009 16:49:00

Further to the design of a new �20 two years ago the Bank of England has just announced that the �50 is also due an overhaul with not one but two historical figures featuring on it.

The Bank of England issued the Following press release on May 29

"The renowned 18th century business partnership of entrepreneur Matthew Boulton and engineer
James Watt provides the historical figures to be portrayed on the Bank of England�s redesigned
�50 banknotes. Bank of England Governor, Mervyn King, made the announcement this evening
when he opened a new exhibition at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery: �Matthew
Boulton: Selling what all the world desires�.
Commenting on the choice, the Governor said, �Just as the Bank of England plays an essential
role in the economy as the United Kingdom�s central bank, so too did Boulton and Watt�s steam
engines and their many other innovations as essential factors in the nation�s Industrial Revolution.
So many of the advantages society now enjoys are due in large part to the vital role of engineering
and the brilliance and foresight of people such as Boulton and Watt whose development and
refinement of steam engines gave an incredible boost to the efficiency of industry.�
�The unique and rare opportunity that the Bank has through its banknotes to acknowledge and
promote awareness of our nation�s heritage of artistic, social and scientific endeavour is an honour
for us. The Bank�s choice of Boulton and Watt, a reminder of the invaluable contribution from
engineering and the entrepreneurial spirit to the advancement of society, I think, well reflects
this.�
The Boulton and Watt �50 banknote, to be launched in around eighteen months time, will be the
second note in the Series F �family�which began with the introduction of the Adam Smith �20
note in 2007. Therefore its overall appearance will be similar. But for the first time two portraits
will appear together on the reverse of the note, those of Boulton and Watt, along with the image of
a steam engine and the Soho (Birmingham) Manufactory. As with the Adam Smith �20 banknote however, continuity is provided with the current portrait of Her Majesty The Queen, which was
first used in 1990 and which will be retained on the front of the note. Further details of the design
and the range of security features to be included on the new note will be revealed when the new
note is launched, within a full promotion and awareness campaign.
Andrew Bailey, the Bank�s Executive Director � Banking Services and Chief Cashier, whose
signature appears on Bank of England banknotes, also attended the Birmingham exhibition
opening. Commenting on the plans for the new �50 banknote, he said, �Not only am I delighted
with the proposed design for the banknote but I am pleased too that the Bank has the opportunity
again to introduce advances in anti-counterfeiting measures which have come on stream.�
As new-design banknotes are introduced so the notes they replace are withdrawn - although they
can always be exchanged at the Bank of England for their face value. The Boulton and Watt �50
banknote will therefore circulate in tandem with the current �50 banknote first introduced in 1994.
This earlier note, which features Sir John Houblon, the first Governor of the Bank of England, will
be gradually withdrawn from circulation with the final date for its status as legal tender to be
announced in due course.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
1. An image of the concept design for the reverse of the new note, for media use only, and
restricted to illustration of this story only, is available on the Bank's website.
https://www.bankofengland.co.uk/publications/MediaCentre/ssl/login.aspx
NB Publication of the image is also EMBARGOED to 19:00 hrs BST.
You will need to contact the Bank's Press Office on 020 7601 4411 to obtain login details. After
6pm your call will be forwarded to the Press Officer on duty.
2. The design includes separate portraits of Boulton and Watt, developed from images held by the
Bank of England (Bank of England copyright). The image of the Soho Manufactory, where
Boulton produced small metalware and which became the first steam-powered mint and another,
of the Whitbread steam engine designed by Boulton and Watt and installed by Samuel Whitbread
in his London brewery, are worked from images owned by Birmingham City Council. Permission
to use these two images was kindly given by the Council"

For more news see COIN NEWS July on sale June 24

Could you have been one of the greats? It's competition time......

Phil Mussell — 29/05/2009 14:56:00

Do you think you could have been a coin designer? Do you think you could have done better at Una and The Lion, the Gothic Crown or the Wren farthing? Do you think your design would have gone down in history? Well now's your chance to find out!

Thanks once again to the generosity of reader Geoff Simm you have the chance to show the world how you would have done things - and have the chance to win some serious money whilst doing it!

We are offering readers the chance to re-design a �British� coin (for this competition that term is defined as English, Scottish or pre-1928 Irish)- any coin at all - from the depths of numismatic history right up to the present day. The only criteria being that it must be recognised as a coin as opposed to a medallion or medal - i.e. it must be British in origin and have a recognised denomination. So patterns (Una and the Lion, the three Graces, the Petition Crown etc) are acceptable but art medal/military medals are not.

There are three categories - for gold, silver and copper/bronze coins (for the sake of the competition �1 and �2 coins will be judged as �gold� and the brass threepenny bit as copper/bronze) with the prize breakdown as follows - �250 to the best entry in any category with two further prizes of �150 to the winners of the remaining categories. There will also be two further prizes of �150 and �100 to the best and second best junior (under18) entry (in any category) whose entry was not judged an overall category winner. Juniors may, of course, win any of the open categories so it�s possible we could have five winners all under 18!

The rules are simple - redesign a coin as you think it ought to have been issued and send it into us by September 30 - that way we can have some of your ideas on our table at Coinex for the numismatic world to see! You can enter with as many different designs for as many different coins as you like (or indeed lots of different designs for the same coin) - just make sure it�s obvious to us what coins they are! And don�t think you have to stick to convention - if you don�t want the decimal 50p to be seven sided then don�t make it seven sided; if you felt that the shilling should have been triangular or the half crown a semi-circle, quite literally �half a crown�, then so be it - but be aware we will be judging your entries as practical items for every day use - and ones that could theoretically have been struck - so please, no illogical shapes or intricate detail that would be impossible to duplicate in miniature!

So get your thinking caps on, get your pens and paper out and get designing - and please don�t worry if you�re not a fantastic artist or designer, it doesn�t matter that your sense of perspective is slightly ropey or that your can�t draw much more than a stick figure or two - we won�t actually be sending any of these to the Royal Mint for consideration so you don�t need to be a Pistrucci, Wyon or Gillick - just do you best!

Good luck!

"Celebration of Britain"

Phil Mussell — 29/05/2009 14:50:00

The next three in the silver �5 Crown series of 18 coins "celebrating Britian" in the run up to the 2012 Olympics will be launched soon - look out in July's COIN NEWS for details!

Stop Thief

Phil Mussell — 27/05/2009 10:17:00

Sadly the number of medals going missing seems to be increasing - keep your eyes and ears open for these if you would - any info to the MEDAL NEWS Office please

Stolen May 16:

D.S.M. awarded to p/jx385418 P.R.W. Houghton
(D-Day Award)
1939-45 star
Atlantic Star (France and Germany Clasp)
Italy star
Defence and War

Honour the Officers - it's here!

Phil Mussell — 12/05/2009 16:52:00

The latest in the invaluable "Honour the..." Series by Michael Maton has arrived.

HONOUR THE OFFICERS gives a complete listing for all honours and awards given to WORLD WAR I officers from Britain and the Empire. The huge volume lists all recipients alphabetically and details which awards were won, the theatre of war in which they were awarded, the date of the award and the London Gazette page on which the award can be found allowing the researcher to cross reference.

At 850+ pages it's the biggest book yet in this fascinating series and is well worth a look! Check out our on-line shop for full details

Metal detectorist jailed over fakes

Phil Mussell — 12/05/2009 16:47:00

We all know that there are a number of fakes in the market today but I wouldn't have thought somebody from within the metal detecting hobby would have been resposnsible for putting them out there.

According to The Times Yesterday (May 11) David Hutchings, organiser of a detecting club in Coventry, had been using legitimate digs to "discover" fakes and then selling them off into teh trade and thence the hobby. He was jailed for six months at Warwick Crown Court adter pleading guilty to numerous counts of fraud.

The full story can be found here

Birmingham next Sunday

Phil Mussell — 01/05/2009 15:22:00

Don't forget the regular Birmingham Coin Fair at the Motorcycle Museum (just off the M42 by the NEC) on Sunday May 10 - it's always hugely popular and even we can't get a table for this month's fair! We'll be at the next one though on June 14 so see you there

Stop Thief II

Phil Mussell — 01/05/2009 15:21:00

Family medals stolen from a house in Worthing, West Sussex,

Police Incident number:WWSL/09/01/00123

Inspector W. Hughes-Halls, B.S.A.P.
Member Order of British Empire
Colonial Police Long Service Medal
King George V Silver Jubilee Medal
Long Service and Good Conduct Medal
Meritorious Service Medal
2nd World War Medal

W.W. Halls
Afghanistan Medal & Clasp � Ali Musjid {Corporal}
Egypt Medal & Clasp � ElTeb-Tamai {Tr Sgt Major}
Khedives Star
Long Service and Good Conduct Medal
Medal for First World War

Major G.P.M. Clift, Royal Artillery & Ox & Bucks L.I.
1939-45 Star
France & Germany Star
Defence Medal
War Medal
GSM Palestine 194-1948

F.L. Bristow
First World War Medals

Any info to Q&C Militaria 01242 519815 or Worthing Police

Stop Thief

Phil Mussell — 01/05/2009 15:12:00

Lost in transit - RMA 1468-S Cpl. J. Brown, Great War pair with a defence medal & certificate and Great War pair to RMA 12746 BMR. J. A. Turner. Posted from St Pauls Cray Parade, near Orpington on the 30th March 2009 @10.04am vi special delivery but they apparently never left the building and now are untraceable

Any info to teh MEDAL NEWS office please

Gurkha defeat for Brown

Phil Mussell — 29/04/2009 16:59:00

Many of you will be following the debate about allowing Gurkha servicemen the right of British settlement. We at MEDAL NEWS are heartened to hear that Prime Minister Gordon Brown's motion to allow only limited numbers to stay in the UK was defeated today (April 29)

as seen here

We at MEDAL NEWS wholeheartedly support the campaign to allow ALL Gurkha soldiers the right to settle in this country - we allow enough "others" to come in and permission should not be denied those who fought in the British Army.

For more information see this website for the Gurkha Justice campaign

Dickin Medal sells for �24,250

Phil Mussell — 24/04/2009 15:14:00

April 24 at Spink saw the sale of the Dickin Medal awarded to Rip sell for an amzing �24,250

Rip was a stray dog found homeless and starving after a heavy raid in 1940 by A.R.P. Warden Mr. E. King, who worked at post B132 in Poplar, London, during the World War II. He was soon adopted as the post's mascot, and acted as an unofficial rescue dog, sniffing out casualties trapped under buildings. During the Battle of London he located more than 100 air raid victims

It was partly due to Rip�s success that the authorities decided towards the end of the War to train dogs officially to trace casualties. For his great bravery and valour Rip was awarded both the P.D.S.A. Dickin Medal and the Our Dumb Friends League Blue Cross Medal. Rip wore the Dickin Medal on his collar for the rest of his life. He died in 1948, and was the first of the supreme animal heroes to be buried in the small P.D.S.A. Cemetery in Ilford, Essex, under a headstone that reads 'Rip, D.M., "We also serve", for the dog whose body lies here played his part in the Battle of Britain.'

The Dickin Medal was introduced in 1943 by Mrs. Maria Dickin, the founder of the P.D.S.A., and was awarded to animals displaying conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty whilst serving or associated with any branch of the Armed Forces or Civil Defence Units during World War II and its aftermath. It was awarded 54 times between 1943-49, to 32 pigeons, 18 dogs, three horses, and to one cat. Twelve of the recipients, including Rip, are buried at the newly restored Ilford Animal Cemetery.

Spink last sold a Dickin Medal in 2004 which was awarded to Commando, a red chequer cock pigeon, for gallantry with the Resistance and Special Operations Executive in France during 1942. It sold for �9,200.

Royal Mint to be privatised?

Phil Mussell — 22/04/2009 13:51:00

The "inevitable" move of privatising the Royal Mint in Llantrisant took a step closer today with the publication of the final report of the Treasury's Operational efficiency Programme. Full details can be found here

The Royal Mint's Chief executive responded to the announcement with the following statement

�I warmly welcome the Government�s decision to vest the Royal Mint into a company structure. This change will allow the business to take advantage of wider commercial opportunities, including amongst other things, the possible introduction of private capital in the future. This decision recognises the success of the business. Our performance has improved significantly over the past few years as a result of an increasingly diversified and commercial strategy as well as enhanced productivity.

�We have a strong strategy, strong team and strong order book in place and I believe that vesting will facilitate further growth, and better secure the future sustainable success of the business for our staff and customers. It will allow us to pursue further commercial opportunities and expand more rapidly, taking advantage of the freedoms and flexibilities which come from a move to company status, thus confirming our position as a high-quality British manufacturer and the world�s leading exporting mint.�

Watch out in COIN NEWS for further developments...

Stop Thief - medals stolen in Dorset

Phil Mussell — 17/04/2009 15:41:00

The following two family medals were stolen from a private residence in Dorset between 1 and 14 April 2009.

MGS Clasp Sahagun & Benevente named to Assistant Surgeon T B Davis 7th Hussars

Crimea Clasps Sebastopol, Inkerman and Alma named to Major T Davis 95th Regiment

Crime reference: Bridport Police C09D12434 - PC B Puttock

Family may be contacted through General Secretary, Orders & Medals Research Society

generalsecretary@omrs.org

01494 441207

Yate - again?

Phil Mussell — 17/04/2009 15:37:00

I can't quite believe it but our "local" show is almost upon us once again!

Next Sunday (26/4) sees the second of Mark Carter's Bristol shows at the Yate Leisure centre near Chipping Sodbury

As ever the preview will commence at 9.30am with the main fair opening at 10.30am. All this actually means is that you have to pay a little bit more to get in early - but it's not much so bite the bullet, dig deep and come in at half nine - it's worth it I promise you!

Aldershot here we come

Phil Mussell — 17/04/2009 15:35:00

Don't forget the Aldershot Medal Fair this sunday (19/4) at the Princes Hall, Princes Way Aldershot from 9.30am (preview - 10.30am for everyone else!)

It's our first Aldershot of the year so we're looking forward to it - hope to see you there!

Coin Yearbook 2009 -reprint now available

Phil Mussell — 06/04/2009 17:01:00

Last year we sold out of the COIN YEARBOOK by the end of April - this year they'd all gone by the end of February! We felt this was a tad too early (seeing as the next one wasn't due out until the autumn) so ordered a reprint - taking the opportunity to update a few of the gold prices whilst we were at it! Unbelievably almost half of that 2,000 copy reprint as been sold before it is available - so if you want a copy you'd better hurry! It's still just �9.95 making it the best value coin price guide by a long, long way!

Banknote Yearbook - it's here!

Phil Mussell — 06/04/2009 16:59:00

And it's already selling fast - be sure to secure your copy....!

Still only �19.95- not everything goes up (although a lot of the banknote prices listed in the book certainly have....!)

Stop Thief

Phil Mussell — 06/04/2009 16:57:00

STOLEN on 20th February 2009, from his home in Penerely Road, Rainham, Essex. The medals of Pte Ernest "Ron" Jones, Parachute Regiment.

1939-45 Star,
France & Germany Star,
Defence medal,
War medal,
General Service Medal Bars "Palestine" and Malaya.

He served with the 21st Independant Parachute Company.

He sadly died on the 18th March 2009 - his family are appealing for return of his medals. Any information please contact 01708-760478.

VC Register - a correction

Phil Mussell — 01/04/2009 12:23:00

Apologies to those trying to ring the Number for "This England" with regards to the Addendum to the VC Register. A typo gremlin some how got into the office and we printed the number incorrectly. It should have been 01242 537 900.

Sorry about that....

Banknote yearbook 6th edition

Phil Mussell — 31/03/2009 17:41:00

Is almost upon us! The book will be in to us within 24hours and will be immediately posted out to everyone who has pre-ordered.

We've had our "preview" copy and even though I say so myself it does look pretty good.....!!

Britannia Success

Phil Mussell — 31/03/2009 17:39:00

A BIG thank you to all who attended (both dealers and customers alike) the event was a great success with hundreds of people through the door!

All the comments have been overwhelmingly positive and we're already looking forward to the next show on Sunday November 22 - although we hope to see some of you way before then!

Banknote yearbook 6th edition

Phil Mussell — 10/03/2009 17:11:00

The eagerly awaited new BANKNOTE YEARBOOK is at the printers now - ready for launch at the Maastricht Papermoney fair in April.

Once again it's hardback and retails at a very modest �19.95 - We're offering it post free if you pre-order!

Check our "books" section now

Banknotes at Valkenburg

Phil Mussell — 10/03/2009 17:07:00

Don't forget the "Maastricht" Paper Money show in Valkenberg, the Netherlands this weekend (April 2-5).

The event is one of the biggest banknote and paper money fairs in the world and is attended by dealers from across the globe. Whatever your banknote interests Valkenberg will cater for you!

We'll be there to launch the BANKNOTE YEARBOOK 6th edition and if we can make the long drive across four countries we're sure you can too! Actually that said the hardest part is the drive from Devon to Dover - the bit on the continent is a doddle....!!

Britannia Medal Fair March 29th - don't miss out!

Phil Mussell — 10/03/2009 15:14:00

So far Britannia looks pretty full - it's going to be a GOOD day!

Dealers who'll be having a table include:

Andrew Bostock
Phil Burman
John Cannon
Chelsea Military Antiques
Peter Cotrel
David Desborough
Chris Dixon
DNW
Tom Donovan
Bill Friar
Great War Medals
Gordon's Medals
Meurig Jones/Find a medal.com
John Manning
Steve Sewell
Murray Shaw
Fred Walland

And of course the Token Publishing Team....!!

The show is easy to get to - it's being held at the Carisbrooke Hall, Victory Services Club, Seymour Street just off Marble Arch - entry is free so why not come along and say hello!

Don't forget Harrogate

Phil Mussell — 04/03/2009 14:15:00

The North of England has always proved a hotbed of coin collectors - the bi-annual York Fair continues to go from strength to strength and the Monthly Leeds show is always popular. The Harrogate show has always had something of a more "chequered past" with it's popularity waning in recent years - until that is Simon Monks took it over! Last year's event, held as ever at the Old Swan Hotel, was very well attended both by dealers and collectors and we're expecting the same this year!

Once again it's a two-day event spanning Friday 20 and Saturday 21 March, starting at 11.00am on the Friday and finishing at 6.00pm and starting again on the Saturday at 10.00am and running until 4.00pm - although as with most fairs if you leave it until the last minute there won't be many stallholders left!

We're coming all teh way up from devon and are looking forward to a fun weekend!

Birmingham anybody?

Phil Mussell — 04/03/2009 14:08:00

Once again the Token team will be at the Motorcycle museum in Birmingham (just by the NEC) for the monthly Coin Fair - held on the second Sunday of each month. Sadly we can't be at every show - other commitments just won't allow us to be - but we'll do our best to come to three or four a year! We'll be bringing all of our books of course - although the COIN YEARBOOK has currently sold out and we're reprinting - and we'll also be bringing some of the vast range of accessories. If there's anything specific you'd like us to bring do let us know on 01404 46972 or by emailing phil@tokenpublishing.com

Britannia - the latest

Phil Mussell — 04/03/2009 14:05:00

Plans are well underway for the next Britannia show on March 29th - many of the country's best known medal dealers will be in attendance and with the event being promoted in a number of Family History and Antique magazines as well as MEDAL NEWS we're expecting a good turn out!

Look out in the March issue of MEDAL NEWS for a list of who's coming - we're looking forward to a fun day!

Who do you think you are...?

Phil Mussell — 24/02/2009 17:21:00

Come and find out on Friday, Saturday and Sunday February 27-March 1 at Olympia. This huge family history show has proved immensely popular in the past two years and this time around we're hoping it will be even better!

MEDAL NEWS will be in attendance (stand 1003) and we look forward to welcoming our existing readers and maybe converting a few new ones too!

If you're interested in getting two tickets for the price of one (�20 for two adults) then call 0844 412 4629 and quote reference "medal241"

The show starts at 10.00am and runs until 6.30pm on the Friday, from 9.30am until 6.00pm on the Saturday and from 9.30am until 5.00pm on Sunday!

Meet the Author

Phil Mussell — 18/02/2009 15:42:00

Why not come along to the Britannia Show at the Victory Services Club on Sunday March 29th and meet some of the men behind Token Publishing's best selling books - we've got Jeff Elson, author of the popular "Staffordshire Regiment" books. David Biggins, author of "The Battle of Elandslaagte, Account and Roll" Allan Stanistreet, our book reviewer and author of "Heroes of the Albert Medal" and Peter Singlehurst, author of "Afloat and Ashore". All happy to sign copies of their books or answer any questions you may want to put to them!

Medal Tracker success

Phil Mussell — 09/02/2009 15:55:00

So far February has brought three reunites from February's MEDAL NEWS - including the wonderful group of General Holland Pryor featured in "News and Views" on page 8 - the current owner and the family are now in touch with eachother, more in the March issue of the Magazine!

Britannia update

Phil Mussell — 06/02/2009 14:19:00

So far we've had a number of dealers promising their support for the MEDAL NEWS Britannia show on March 29 - as well as promises from dozens of readers that they'll come!

Those dealers who have already confirmed they can attend include

Andrew Bostock
Phil Burman
John Cannon
Cheslea Military Antiques
Chris Dixon
DNW
Gordon's Medals
Peter Morris
Steve Sewell
Fred Walland
Steve Wheeler

And we've had interest from a number of dealers who haven't been to Britannia for years - we'll keep you posted!

VC Guns on the move

Phil Mussell — 06/02/2009 12:45:00

Two iconic examples of Britain?s rich military heritage, the historic artillery pieces that have provided the metal for over 800 Victoria Crosses since 1914, are on the move. The VC Guns, two 2.5 ton bronze Chinese-built cannons dating from the mid-19th Century, are set to be moved as part of a reorganisation of Firepower, The Royal Artillery Museum?s public displays. The cannons are preserved at the Museum in the historic Royal Arsenal in Woolwich, south-east London and will be moved at 11am on Tuesday February 10. The historic artillery pieces will be carefully transported about 100m in the open between two of the listed buildings occupied by the Museum.

Museum Curator Mark Smith explains, "The VC Guns are the most popular exhibits on display in the Museum because we tell the stories behind how the VCs have been won. Our visitors are gripped by these true stories of heroism, often against overwhelming odds, which is why many VCs are sadly awarded posthumously. As a museum we not only preserve the VC Guns and the medals, but also present these inspirational stories of courage, resourcefulness, leadership and endurance."

According to the Museum's own press release the "VC Guns are cannons weighing 2.5 tons each without their carriages, which each weigh another half a ton. The guns are Chinese of about 18 pounder calibre and were captured by British troops at the Taku Forts in China during the Second Anglo-Chinese War of 1860. They are used to supply the metal to Hancock's Jewellers, manufacturers of over 800 VC medals since 1914"

Now we'd always believed them to be Chinese guns captured by the Russians, used at Crimea and then captured in turn by the British, it seems there may be some investigating to do...!!

In Dublin's fair city

Phil Mussell — 06/02/2009

The Token Team is once again looking forward to attending the Irish International Coin and Medal fair to be held at the Royal Dublin Society, Ballsbridge, Dublin on February 21-22. We love it in the city and are thoroughly looking forward to visiting once again - we hope all our Irish readers (and some from this side of the water) will be able to make it too.

Please note if there's anything you'd specifically like us to bring please let us know as soon as you can....!!

London Coin Fair February 14

Phil Mussell — 05/02/2009 14:42:00

Yes I know, I know it can't possibly be time for the London Coin Fair again - but it very nearly is! Next Saturday (yes Valentine's day) sees the first LCF of the year, once again being held at the Holiday Inn, Bloomsbury.

This now well-established venue has easily taken over from the Cumberland Hotel of the LCF's previous incarnation (and how long ago that now seems) and is well attended by dealers and collectors alike.

We'll be there - of course - with our usual books, magazines etc AND a selection from our very popular accessories range.

If you'd like something specific though please don't leave it to chance, we won't be able to bring everything so far better that you let us know in advance what you'd like us to bring and we'll make sure we do. Call us on 01404 46972 or email

Bromley this Sunday!

Phil Mussell — 29/01/2009 12:08:00

For those of you in the South East why not come along to the Civic Hall, Bromley this Sunday from 9.30am for the first Medal Fair there this year?

We'll be there with our new book - "Inside Mafeking" as well as all the old favourites...!

Local notes

Phil Mussell — 26/01/2009 10:41:00

Following the success of the "Totnes pound" and other local currency schemes it seems that Lewes in East Sussex is the latest town to go back to the days of Provincial banking and issue their own notes more details can be found here

Police Medal Review

Phil Mussell — 26/01/2009 10:27:00

Following the recent campaign by Warwickshire Police Officer Ken Fowler, which has won wide spread support across all parties, the Home Office announced on 21/01/09 that a review will be conducted into the award criteria of the Police Long Service & Good Conduct Medal.

As recently as 12/01/09 the Policing Minister Vernon Coaker MP had refused to review the current award point of the Police medal with is awaded to officers upon completion of 22 years service, in relation to those awarded to Fire, Ambulance and Prison officers who receive their medal after 20 years.

The Home Office stated in a comunication to all Chief Police Officers that a review has been ordered, and this review wil need time to consider all the facts.

Scottish banknotes move south...?

Phil Mussell — 21/01/2009 17:20:00

A new bid has been launched to force English retailers to take Scottish Banknotes in the same way they do bank of England ones! Apparently no English retailer is obliged to take a Scottish note as they are not backed by the force of Law - Bank of England ones are. This new bid, by Shadow Scottish Secretary David Mundell is designed to put both types of banknotes on an equal footing.

For more details see this story from the BBC

Thanks a trillion

Phil Mussell — 20/01/2009 11:42:00

Zimbabwe, already the producer of the biggest denomination banknotes in history is going one better - with the printing of a one hundred trillion dollar note!

Last year the Zimbabwe Government lopped ten zeroes off of the currency in an attempt to make the banknotes more realistic but with inflation at stupidly staggering levels (over 200million %) that has done nothing to halt the slide - it's estimated that the $Z 100,000,000,000,000 is only worth about US$32! Full details

here

Australian VC Awarded

Phil Mussell — 20/01/2009 11:13:00

The first Australian VC (as opposed to a VC awarded to an Australian) has been awarded to Trooper Mark Donaldson of the Special Air Service. Details are as follows

ON THE AWARDING OF THE VICTORIA CROSS TO

TROOPER MARK GREGOR DONALDSON

It is with great pride that I announce that today, the Governor General will award an Australian Soldier � Trooper Mark Donaldson of the Special Air Service Regiment � the Victoria Cross for Australia. As Australia's highest military honour, it is only awarded to those who display the most conspicuous gallantry in the face of the enemy. In the history of our nation, only 96 Australians have been accorded this ultimate recognition of gallantry, dedication and sacrifice. Trooper Donaldson becomes the 97th Australian recipient of this award, and the first recipient of the Victoria Cross for Australia instituted in 1991.

Trooper Donaldson has been awarded the Victoria Cross for his gallantry under fire during operations in Afghanistan in September 2008. An excerpt from the citation for the award is as follows:

On 02 September 2008, during the conduct of a fighting patrol, Trooper Donaldson was travelling in a combined Afghan, US and Australian vehicle convoy that was engaged by a numerically superior, entrenched and coordinated enemy ambush. The ambush was initiated by a high volume of sustained machine gun fire coupled with the effective use of rocket propelled grenades. Such was the effect of the initiation that the combined patrol suffered numerous casualties, completely lost the initiative and became immediately suppressed. It was over two hours before the convoy was able to establish a clean break and move to an area free of enemy fire.

In the early stages of the ambush, Trooper Donaldson reacted spontaneously to regain the initiative. He moved rapidly between alternate positions of cover engaging the enemy with 66mm and 84mm anti-armour weapons as well as his M4 rifle. During an early stage of the enemy ambush, he deliberately exposed himself to enemy fire in order to draw attention to himself and thus away from the wounded soldiers. This selfless act alone bought enough time for those wounded to be moved to relative safety.

The patrol was forced to conduct numerous vehicle manoeuvres, under the intense enemy fire, over a distance of approximately four kilometres to extract the convoy from the engagement area. Compounding the extraction was the fact that casualties had consumed all available space within the vehicles. Those who had not been wounded, including Trooper Donaldson, were left with no option but to run beside the vehicles throughout.

During the conduct of this vehicle manoeuvre to extract the convoy from the engagement area, a severely wounded coalition force interpreter was inadvertently left behind. Of his own volition and displaying complete disregard for his own safety, Trooper Donaldson moved alone, on foot, across approximately 80 metres of exposed ground to recover the wounded interpreter. His movement, once identified by the enemy, drew intense and accurate machine gun fire from entrenched positions. Upon reaching the wounded coalition force interpreter, Trooper Donaldson picked him up and carried him back to the relative safety of the vehicles then provided immediate first aid before returning to the fight.

On subsequent occasions during the battle, Trooper Donaldson administered medical care to other wounded soldiers, whilst continually engaging the enemy. Trooper Donaldson's acts of exceptional gallantry in the face of accurate and sustained enemy fire ultimately saved the life of a coalition force interpreter and ensured the safety of the other members of the combined Afghan, US and Australian force. Trooper Donaldson's actions on this day displayed exceptional courage in circumstances of great peril.

In accepting this award, Trooper Donaldson has also shown tremendous humility and has recognised that his actions were undertaken as part of a team. All Australian Soldiers should feel tremendously proud of the actions of Trooper Donaldson, and the recognition that the award of the Victoria Cross represents. His actions, and those of the other members of his patrol, are exemplars of the very best in Australian soldiering.

On behalf of all members of the Australian Army, I congratulate Trooper Donaldson on his being awarded the Victoria Cross for Australia.

K.J. GILLESPIE, AO, DSC, CSM

Lieutenant General

Chief of Army

16 January 2009

Rule Britannia!

Phil Mussell — 20/01/2009 09:49:00

It was with great sadness that we attended the last Britannia show at the Victory Services Club in November - Fred and Jeannie had done so much to help the hobby over the years that to see them retire was a great shame. Such a shame that we felt we had to do something - so we have!! As of 2009 MEDAL NEWS will be running the Britannia show!

The first one will be on March 29 with a second hopefully in November!!

Watch this space for details

Design a coin for 2012

Phil Mussell — 14/01/2009 14:36:00

The Royal Mint has just launched their latest initiative and this one looks like it could well prove very popular indeed! The idea is that the public are to design 29 new reverses for the 50p piece - these coins will then be issued, one a month starting in March next year. the "general" public have been invited to design 27 of the coins with one being designed specifically by secondary schoolchildren, the other by viewers of Blue Peter.

If you're interested you can get more details from the website Royal Mint Competition

But hurry - the closing date in April 29 2009.....!!

All the Ys...York and Yate

Phil Mussell — 14/01/2009

As well as the York Medal and Coin Fair on this Friday and Saturday (January 16 and 17) at York Racecourse Medal News (well Phil anyway) will be at the Yate (Bristol) Medal Fair on Sunday January 18 .

It's the nearest show to us and is one we always try and attend - even if it comes straight after the trek back from "up North"

The show starts at 9.30am for "preview" with entry proper commencing at 10.30am

We'll have stocks of all the old favourites as well as the chance to buy the brand new MEDAL YEARBOOK as well as the Charge of the Heavy Brigade and the fantastic new book on the Royal Artillery at Woolwich

See you there I hope!

A quarter sovereign!

Phil Mussell — 02/01/2009 14:25:00

Back in 1853 two pattern quarter sovereigns were produced - the coin was never generally issued though and those patterns are the only quarter sovereigns we've ever had - until now that is!

In February the Royal mint will issue just 10,000 quarter sovereigns - depicting the classic Pistrucci "George and the Dragon" on the reverse the 13.5mm coin will appear in the five coin gold sets and will also retail individually at �54.95...!

See February COIN NEWS for more information and for dealers stocking the coins

Christmas Opening times

Phil Mussell — 18/12/2008 16:54:00

The Token Publishing offices will close on Tuesday December 22 at 1.00pm and will then re-open on Monday January 5 at 9.00am

May we wish all of our customers and clients a very merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year

The Charge of the Heavy brigade

Phil Mussell — 11/12/2008 16:50:00

The long awaited sister publication to Roy Dutton's excellent "Charge of the Light Brigade" is now available and priced at just �20 (plus p&p)

We only have limited numbers and are shipping now for Christmas - don't miss out click here to buy yours!

Bristol Theatre Tokens

Phil Mussell — 11/12/2008 14:21:00

The Britsol Old Vic is seeking help with the whereabouts of the silver tokens issued when the Theatre Royal Bristol was opened in 1766. The tokens were sold in May 1766 as a way of raising money to pay for the theatre that still stands on King Street in Bristol. Fifty of the tokens were made and sold, each individually numbered 1 to 50 (although we know of at least two where instead of the number, the original owners name was engraved on the token) and sold for �50. Each coin is 3cms/1.25inches in diameter, inscribed with �KING STREET Theatre Bristol May 30 1766� on one side and �The Proprietor of this Ticket is Entitled to the Sight of Every Performance to be Exhibited in this House�, with the number of the individual token on the other.

The theatre is currently undergoing a refurbishment and following the fundraisers of 1766 another fifty silver tokens have been minted by the theatre, in the 1766 design. The new tokens are numbered 51 to 100 and are being given in return for donations of �50,000 or more.

The theatre are trying to trace the tokens both for the history of the theatre and in the hope that it may lead them to people who would be interested in helping the theatre with its redevelopment.

If anyone out there knows anything then contact Lucy Topham on appealassistant@bristol-old-vic.co.uk

Yearbooks selling fast

Phil Mussell — 05/12/2008 13:38:00

Unbelievably we only have just over 1,000 each of our COIN and MEDAL yearbooks left - now that might seem like a lot but when you consider we printed 10,000 coin Yearbooks and 7,500 Medal Yearbooks and they only came out two months ago you'll realise why actually this figure is quite startling!

The 2008 COIN YEARBOOK sold out in April and the 2008 MEDAL YEARBOOK was sold out by June - at this rate both will be sold out long before those dates in 2009 - better order your copy soon!

New record for British Coin

Phil Mussell — 27/11/2008 09:35:00

Last night's sale by Ginza Coins of Tokyo saw a new record set for a British milled coin - with �360,000 being paid for a gold Gothic crown! The coin last sold in Tokyo back in the 90s and has trebled the price it made then.

The Ginza Coin Auctions sale was actually in two parts - the second being a sale of 100 choice rarities - 43 of which were British. Look out for the full report of the sale - including those other rarities in next month's COIN NEWS

Up North

Phil Mussell — 27/11/2008 09:31:00

We'll be at the Leeds show at the Cedar Court Hotel, Wakefield (just off Junction 39 of the M1) this Sunday - why not come along too? It's a great little show with coins, banknotes and medals on offer and it's well worth a visit - see you there!

Some good news!

Phil Mussell — 14/11/2008 14:43:00

Medals stolen from Marines based at Plymouth have now, thankfully, been recovered - see the full story here!

The last Britannia

Phil Mussell — 14/11/2008 14:43:00

Are you coming to what will be the last Britannia medal show organised by Fred Walland and Jeannie Robinson? These stalwarts of the fair circuit have decided it's time to bow out and whilst we hope that Britannia may well live on with someone else (watch this space...) the show on November 23 will certainly be their last.

Held as ever at the Victory Services Club, just by Marble Arch, London the show has been a firm favourite amongst dealers and collectors alike - don't miss your chance to visit it for one last time - the doors open at 9.30am

New Record at St James's

Phil Mussell — 07/11/2008 15:19:00

The stunning Elizabeth 1755 20 roubles that featured on Last month's COIN NEWS front cover sold for an incredible �1.55million! A new record for a non-US coin!

This amount eclipses anything gone before and shows once again teh bouyancy in certain market sectors

A full report will appear in "Market Scene" in the January issue

Another "Tommy" fades away

Phil Mussell — 06/11/2008 11:57:00

One of the few remaining WWI veterans has died at his home in Sydney, Australia age 108. Born in Leicester in 1900 Sydney Maurice Lucas was drafted into the Sherwood Foresters aged just 17 in August 1918 - only the Armistice of 11/11/18 saved him from a life, and maybe death, in the trenches. He did go on to serve briefly in World War II with the army of his adopted homeland Australia however ill health forced his discharge in 1941.

Birmingham anybody?

Phil Mussell — 03/11/2008 12:25:00

The Coin News team (well half of it) will be at the Monthly Birmingham Coin Show this Sunday - we'll have some of our wide range of accessories with us but space dictates we can't bring everything - so if there's anything specific you want do let us know before hand!

The show takes place from 9.30am at the Motorcycle Museum just by the NEC - see you there

Reward offered

Phil Mussell — 03/11/2008 12:19:00

A �50,000 reward has been offered for the return of a "unique" collection of Scottish coins.

The collection, worth an estimated �500,000, was stolen last year and is thought to have been one of the most imporatant collections of Scottish Coins ever formed - for the full story see the BBC's website here

London Coin Fair

Phil Mussell — 03/11/2008 11:45:00

It's only a couple of days until the Winter London Coin Fair!. Held as ever at the very popular London Bloomsbury Holiday Inn Hotel off Russell Square the show continues to attract dozens of dealers and hundreds of collectors. For those of you who haven't visited it yet it's quite unlike most shows inasmuch that you'll find dealers' tables over two floors and in the corridors! It's well worth a trip to the Capital - why not combine it with a weekend away?

The next show is on this Saturday and, as always the Token Team will be there - and this time we're coming tooled up! We'll have the new Krause catalogues that have only just come out alongside our own brand New COIN YEARBOOK 2009 and of course some of our wide range of accessories, we look forward to seeing you.....!

Medal Thief admits his guilt

Phil Mussell — 24/10/2008 11:32:00

It's bad enough to know there are low-lifes out there who will steal medals from servicemen - when it's one of their own colleagues it makes it so much the worse. If you've bought any modern medals from eBay or similar recently you might want to check out the full story here

Leeds( Wakefield) Show

Phil Mussell — 17/10/2008 15:33:00

The Coin News team does its best to get to Eddy Smith's Wakefield show (held at the Cedar Court Hotel just off the M1) at least once or twice a year and we do like coming up in October. Unfortunately we can't make it this year - we'll do our best to be there in November though!

Special Forces heroes

Phil Mussell — 17/10/2008 15:28:00

Lord Ashcroft is launching a new book in November. The country's most famous medal collector, whose trust owns more than 150 Victoria Crosses, has recently revealed that as well as the VC he also collects medals awarded to men (and presumably women) of the Special Forces.

We don't know too much about the collection at this stage but MEDAL NEWS has been invited to interview Lord Ashcroft for the December/January issue of the magazine so all will be revealed then!

If you have a question you'd like us to put to Lord Ashcroft (about the Special Forces collection rather than the VCs although we're bound to mention them once or twice I'm sure) please email phil@tokenpublishing.com - we'll do our best to include as many as we can in the interview

George Cross Hero

Phil Mussell — 17/10/2008 15:25:00

Those responsible for failings that led to the death of a UK soldier in an Afghan minefield should "hang their heads in shame", a coroner has said.

Cpl Mark Wright, 27, of Edinburgh, died and six others were injured in the blasts in September 2006.

Cpl wright was awarded a Posthumous George Cross for his part in trying to save the lives of his comrades despite being desperately wounded. The full story can be found here

Stratford Time

Phil Mussell — 17/10/2008 09:41:00

The excellent fair at Stratford is this weekend!

We'll be there, as ever, with the BRAND NEW MEDAL YEARBOOK - don't miss out!!

The fair is at the Stratford Leisure centre and starts at 9.30am for the early preview, 10.30am for the "main" opening

�1 Million note sold!

Phil Mussell — 02/10/2008 17:00:00

On October 1 2008 Spink sold the famous Number Eight �1,000,000 note for �78,300 to a private UK based collector. It is believed that only two notes of this high denomination exist in the world today, the other numbered 000007. The million pound note was issued in connection with the Marshall Aid Plan after World War II and was intended for internal use as �records of movement,� for a period of six weeks only. It is believed that eight examples were produced and only two, Numbers Seven and Eight, survived. The two notes were given as mementoes to the respective U.S. and U.K. Treasury Secretaries. The Number Seven was first sold in 1977 and is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as being the highest denomination note in private hands.

The Number Eight note is dated 30 August 1948. It bears the signature of E. E. Bridges in the lower right hand corner and is cancelled over the signature and stamped 6 October 1948, Bank of England. It was consigned to auction by Mr. Bill Parkinson.

Medal Yearbook 2009

Phil Mussell — 02/10/2008 14:54:00

Once again the MEDAL YEARBOOK was launched at the OMRS convention - and it's already selling well.

It's available to order now by visiting our on-line shop, calling 01404 4166 or by filling in the leaflet you'll find in this month's MEDAL NEWS!

Coin Yearbook 2009 out now!

Phil Mussell — 01/10/2008 14:59:00

The next COIN YEARBOOK is now availaible! The 2008 edition sold out three months ago and we've had dozens of people clamouring for the new one - well here it is! It was launched at COINEX last week and you can order your copy from our on-line shop today!

Fake �1 coins

Phil Mussell — 22/09/2008 11:35:00

Apparently the number of "fake" �1 coins in circulation has doubled in the past five years according to this report.

If you're worried about fakes in your change there are some easy ways to tell if what you've got is genuine or not, as well as those mentioned in the report here are a few other ways to spot those counterfeits!

1) know your metal. The metal used by forgers isn't the nice nickel-brass the Royal Mint use - it's likely to be a lead alloy and not capable of holding a decent "strike". This will mean that the image on the coin is faint compared with a real one, it wears more easily and the coin itself will be softer - capable of being scratched easily. The chances are it will be "painted" in some way too - lead is dull silver, not the gold of the �1 coin - so if the colour comes off - it's fake!

2) Know your coins - forgers often get their dates wrong and will marry up the incorrect reverse to an obverse or use a picture that shouldn't be on the coin for that date at all - look in the COIN YEARBOOK to find out which dates had which reverses!

3) Know your inscriptions! Round the edge of many pound coins are mottoes or legends, forgers often don't bother to get the right ones on the right coins. For example if you find a Welsh legend on the edge of a pound coin with a Scottish Lion on it you can bet you've got a wrong 'un!

4) Know your countries - not all "odd" looking �1 coins are forgeries - some may be from Guernsey or Jersey and are perfectly legal tender - in the Channelk Islands!They can't be spent in the UK unfortunately but that doesn't mean they're worthless, charity shops will be glad of them!

Lost medals

Phil Mussell — 20/09/2008 10:20:00

Thankfully there's still some respect left for our veterans - how often do you hear of divers being mobilised for other losses in the Thames.....!

See here for details

Medal Yearbook - on its way!

Phil Mussell — 17/09/2008 16:48:00

Yes it's coming soon - the MEDAL YEARBOOK 2009 will be with us on Wednesday September 24th ready to be posted out the followning day ready to land on collectors' mats in time for the big launch at the OMRS in London on Saturday 27th!

there's still time to pre-order your copy.......

Coming soon!

Phil Mussell — 17/09/2008 16:42:00

The Coin Yearbook is launched at Coinex next week - all pre-order copies will be sent out on Wednesday 24th so order yours today!

This increasingly popular book is used by dealers, collectors and the general public as an easy to read, practical price guide covering all English, Scottish, Irish and Island coins. We'd completely sold out of the 2008 version by April of this year - such is the popularity of the book, we're printing more than ever this year but even so don't leave it too late!!

Especially as this year we've included a brand new section on IRISH DECIMALS!!

Little bit late....

Phil Mussell — 28/08/2008 14:06:00

Don't worry - Medal News September is on its way, it was delayed slightly because we've been hard at work on the YEARBOOK but it will be with you soon - I promise!!

Medal News goes Stateside

Phil Mussell — 11/08/2008 14:53:00

Anyone coming to OMSA? The Orders and Medals Society of America's annual convention is being held in Florida this year - Jacksonville to be precise. The convention takes place this Thursday - Sunday at the Hyatt Regency Waterfront hotel - if you're a n OMSA member you can come along any day - if not then Saturday 16th is "Public day" come along and say hello - we'll be there, in fact I'm leaving now....!

$100,000,000,000 note!

Phil Mussell — 24/07/2008 17:31:00

In response to rampant inflation the Zimbabwe Reserve Bank have announced the introduction of a hundred BILLION dollar note - believed to be the highest denomination ever issued anywhere ever!

It's a sad indictment on the country's regime when you realise just 7 months ago the world was agog at the issuing of a �10million dollar note in Zimbabwe. Inflation is so rampant there that even this new note won't by a loaf of bread

Fighter Aces Medals at Spink

Phil Mussell — 24/07/2008 17:26:00

The DSO, DFC and Bar Group of Battle of Britain Ace Wing Commander H C Mayers sold for an astonishing �66.800 today at Spink. Myers was credited with shooting down eight enemy aircraft during the Battle of Britain and was shot down himself four times, on the last occasion his plane was found, cockpit open but the Wing Commander's body was never recovered.

The group had been expected to fetch between 18 and 20,000.

For more details see the September issue of MEDAL NEWS

George Cross Awarded

Phil Mussell — 23/07/2008 16:44:00

Lance Corporal Matthew Croucher of the Royal Marines has been awarded the George Cross for throwing himself on a grenade triggered by a booby trap in Helmund Province Afghanistan in February of this Year.

Upon triggering the trap he immediately dropped to the ground and lay across the grenade which detonated but, thanks to the fact that his pack was full, he escaped with no more than "a nosebleed and a headache". the three comrades whose lives he undoubtedly saved suffered only minor cuts and bruises.

The George Cross is, of course, awarded for exemplary acts of Courage whilst not "in the face of the enemy" - and is equalled only by the Victoria Cross in the order of precedence

Prison service Long Service medal

Phil Mussell — 15/07/2008 17:00:00

It has just been announced in the House of Commons that there is to be a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal for members of the Prison service bringing them in line with other uniformed services like the Police and Fire Brigade. It is believed that the medal will be awarded for 20 Years service

More info as we get it!

Accessories!

Phil Mussell — 11/07/2008 13:49:00

We're proud to announce that Token Publishing has taken over Lodge Accessories and now stock all manner of items for Coin, Naknote and medal collectors from flips to albums to pages to trays to tweezers to magnifiers to those little round pieces of paper!

Currenty we're running Lodge Hill shop separately from this site so please visit that for more information but within the next two weeks we hope to have everything integrated over here!

Ashcroft VCs at the Imperial War Museum

Phil Mussell — 08/07/2008 00:01:00

Lord Ashcroft�s Victoria Cross collection - the largest in the world - is to go on public display following his �5 million donation to the Imperial War Museum

The world�s largest collection of Victoria Crosses (VCs), belonging to the Michael A Ashcroft Trust, is to be displayed publicly for the first time in a new gallery at Imperial War Museum London

The 152 medals, which range from the Crimean to the Falklands wars, will be displayed alongside the 50 VCs and 29 George Crosses (GCs) already held by the Museum.

The medals to go on show in the new gallery are the result of a collection of VCs first started 22 years ago by Lord Ashcroft, the Tory peer, international businessman and philanthropist. The new display, in what will be called the Lord Ashcroft Gallery, is due to open in the autumn of 2010.

It is estimated the new gallery will cost �5 million and the project has been made possible by a donation from Lord Ashcroft. The collection of VCs is also worth several millions of pounds.

Among the medals to go on display are the VC awarded to Lieutenant (later Rear Admiral) John Bythesea, who during the Crimean War became only the second man to earn and receive the award; the medal to Lieutenant (later Captain) William Leefe Robinson, who shot down the first Zeppelin over British soil during the First World War; and the posthumous medal to Sergeant Ian McKay, of the Parachute Regiment, which is one of only two VCs awarded during the Falklands War.

It's York time again

Phil Mussell — 07/07/2008 14:13:00

Yes it's that time of year again and this weekend sees the second Coin Fair of 2008 at the Knavesmire Stand of York Racecourse

The fair is on for two days and yes it is a weekend earlier than normal -it takes place from 11.00am on Friday 18 and from 10.00am on Saturday 19 and there are over 50 coin and medal dealers in attendance - it's always good fun and well worth a visit - see you there I hope!

The Ashcroft Collection

Phil Mussell — 07/07/2008 14:00:00

Important new about the Ashcroft Collection of VCs coming soon - keep your eyes on this news page for details.....!

News from the National Archives

Phil Mussell — 04/07/2008 12:16:00

We've just heard from William Spencer at the National Archives that the Army medal rolls for remaining clasps of the IGS 08-35, covering NWF 30-31 to NWF 35, the rolls for IGS 36-39 with clasps NWF 36-37 and NWF 37-39 and perhaps more significantly the rolls for the GSM 18-62 for both pre and post war Palestine, SE Asia 45-46 and both Bomb and Mine Clearance clasps will be available at The National Archives in WO 100/494-554 by the middle of July.

July Medal News

Phil Mussell — 04/07/2008 10:49:00

Don't forget the last issue of MEDAL NEWS was a JOINT One (June/July) so there's no separate issue this month (the same goes in January we have a joint December/January issue).

I'm afraid it's the only way we can ever get the YEARBOOKS done (we're working on the 2009 editions of them now) so you won't get another magazine until the very end of July I'm afraid!

Standard Catalog of World Paper Money - out now!

Phil Mussell — 24/06/2008 12:27:00

The latest edition of Krause's Standard Catalog of World Paper Money Volume III (Modern Issues 1961 -date) - the old "Pick" for those of you who can remember that far back - will be in stock in our warehouse within the next two days! So order your copy today

This year it comes with a free DVD - the complete book in DVD form for you to use on your PC, we're not sure how successful these will be but hey - they're free!

Krause 20th Century - on its way!

Phil Mussell — 24/06/2008 12:22:00

The new edition of the acclaimed "Standard Catalog of World Coins 1901-2000" is on its way to these shores as I write! We're expecting them within the next 2-3 weeks so put your order in today!

Rumour has it that this year's book comes with a free DVD - we're assuming it's a scanned version of the book itself to use on your computer at home but who knows it may be the latest Hollywood blockbuster....!!

They are available from this website or by calling 01404 44166 today!

Coldstream Guards Medals stolen

Phil Mussell — 12/06/2008 10:02:00

Over a two year period various medal groups have been stolen from Victoria Barracks in Windsor. These medals HAVE been sold into the trade and many were bought by a dealer in good faith - he has since sold them on and the police are trying to trace them.

The complete list is a long one but here goes:

Medals Stolen from 1st Battalion COLDSTREAM GUARDS, Victoria Barracks, Sheet Street, Windsor Berkshire, SL4 1HF.

1. WATERLOO Medal Private CALLICAT
2. WATERLOO Medal Private J.MOORE
3. Waterloo Medal Private BASLEY
4. Waterloo Medal or Long Service and good conduct medal Private MORGAN
5. Waterloo medal Private SIMPSON
6. Sultans Medal for Egypt 1802 Captain C.PHILLIPS
7. WATERLOO Medal Private BOON
8. Waterloo Medal Private AYRES
9. Waterloo Medal Private CARR
10. CRIMEA War Medal clasps Alma, Inkermann, Sebastopol, Balaklava Drummer MARTIN
11. Crimea War Medal clasps Alma, Inkermann, Sebastapol, Balaklava Private BAKER
12. Crimea War Medal Clasps Alma, Inkermann, Sebastapol, Balaklava Private PRICK
13. Crimea War Medal Clasp Alma, Inkermann, Sebastapol, Balaklava, Turkish Crimea Medal Private SHORT
14. Crimea War Medal Clasps Alma, Inkermann, Sebastapol, BALAKLAVA, Private BLISSETT
15. Crimea War Medal Clasps Alma, Inkermann, Sebastapol, Balaklava, Private FEWINGS
16. KHEDIVES STAR Private WRIGHT
17. EGYPT Medal 1 Clasp Private ROBINSON
18. EGYPT Medal 1 Clasp Private TURNER
19. EGYPT Medal 1 Clasp Private YOUNG
20. Distinguished Service Order Sergeant TROTTER
21. EGYPT Medal 2 Clasps Private HINDS
22. EGYPT Medal 1 Clasp Private FRY
23. KHEDIVES Star Private FAULKNER
24. Queens South Africa Medal 6 Clasps Private GARRETT
25. Whitehead Cup Medal Lieutenant G.IVES
26. QUEENS South Africa Medal 6 Clasps, Kings South Africa Medal clasps South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 Private CUMMINGS
27. QUEENS Police Medal, KINGS Police Medal T CLAY
28. QUEENS South Africa Medal 3 Clasps, KINGS South Africa Medal Clasps, South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 Corporal WHITEHOUSE
29. QUEENS South Africa Medal 6 Clasps, KINGS South Africa Medal Clasps South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 Private WALKER
30. QUEENS South Africa Medal 5 Clasps, QUEENS Police Medal, Kings Police Medal Corporal McGRATH
31. QUEENS South Africa Medal 6 Clasps, KINGS South Africa Medal Clasps South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 Private MYERS
32. MBE, Distinguished Conduct Medal, Queens South Africa Medal, 1914 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal, 1939-45 War Medal, Long Service And Good Conduct Medal, Meritorious Service Medal RSM T BRITTON
33. Crimea Medal, Turkish Crimea Medal J CHALKLEY
34. British War Medal GILLEY
35. QUEENS South Africa Medal 6 Bars, Kings South Africa Medal Clasps South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 BATES
36. OBE, 1914 Star, British WAR MEDAL, Victory Medal, 1939-45 War Medal, 1937 Coronation Medal, Belgium; Order of the Crown Major R T BURTON
37. OBE,1939-45 Star, Italy Star, Defence Medal, War Medal, 1953 Coronation Colonel PEMBROKE
38. Egypt Medal 1 Bar, Khedives Star, Queens South Africa Medal 3 Bars, 1911 Coronation Medal, Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, Private THOME
39. Crimea 4 Clasps, Turkish Crimea Medal Private LEWIS
40. Egypt Medal1 Bar, Khedives Star, Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, HAWKINS
41. Military Medal GV, Queens South Africa Medal 6 Bars,
Kings South Africa Medal, Clasps South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 DOUGLAS
42. MBE, British War Medal, Victory Medal, Defence Medal, 1939-45 War Medal, Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, Meritorious Service Medal Sergeant C ROBINSON
43. Queens South Africa Medal and 5 Bars, Kings South Africa Medal clasps South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902 Private LOVICK
44. Queens South Africa Medal 6 Bars, Kings South Africa Medal Clasps South Africa 1901, South Africa 1902, 1914 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal ROBINSON
45. Military Cross, 1914 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal, (MID), Chevalier de Merit Agricole DARELL
46. Military Cross, British War Medal, Victory Medal Lieutenant LANG
47. Military Cross, 1914 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal, (MID), Long Service And Good Conduct Medal COURT
48. Military Medal, 1914 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal ADKINS

In addition there are a few medals for which the recipients are unknown but these may have been sold or offered along with those named above.

49. Distinguished Service Medal
50. Replica Victoria Cross
51. 1911 Coronation Medal
52. Distinguished Service Order
53. Order of the British Empire

If you have any of these medals, or know of their whereabouts please contact the Ministry of Defence Police South East Divisional Control Room on 023 92 722707 or 023 92 722421, quoting incident number 132 of 13/03/08, this is a 24 hour control room.

Scottish Banknotes safe..!!

Phil Mussell — 11/06/2008 16:55:00

There had been talk in some quarters that the long tradition of Scotland's banks producing their own banknotes was under threat. Apparently plans to force banks to lodge funds with the Bank of England to cover the value of their notes had put the production of banknotes from the Clydesdale Bank, Bank of Scotland and Royal Bank of Scotland in jeopardy - according to the BBC all has now been resolved!

Eugene Ursual

Phil Mussell — 10/06/2008 16:07:00

It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of Canadian Dealer Eugene Ursual who passed away this morning after a short battle with cancer. We've known Gene for many years and he will be sorely missed both as a friend and as a dealer - our condolences go out to his wife Tanya
A full obituary will appear in Medal News in due course

Ouch! Johnson Beharry VC endures more pain...

Phil Mussell — 05/06/2008 12:23:00

Apparently this hurt more than the injuries Pte Beharry sustained whilst winning his Victoria Cross.....

We're not sure about that but we are sure this is some work of art and one thing's for sure - he won't lose it!

Birmingham anybody?

Phil Mussell — 05/06/2008 12:17:00

Straight after the London Coin Fair on Saturday the Token Team (well Phil to be precise) will be heading up to Birmingham NEC for the Coin, Medal and Banknote fair at the Motorcycle Museum on Sunday the 8th

This is a regular show that attracts a loyal following every month, we can't always get there but always try to "stall out" at least twice a year.

If you haven't been before it's well worth the trip - come and say hello!

Medals at Birmingham

Phil Mussell — 21/05/2008 11:52:00

Every month the Birmingham Motorcycle museum plays host to a very popular coin and banknote fair - and every three months the organisers try to expand it to incorporate medals too! The next event, taking place on June 8 coincides with a large Militaria fair at the same venue - so why not kill two birds with one stone and pay it a visit? We'll be there!

All change for the Greenback?

Phil Mussell — 21/05/2008 11:26:00

The US Government has been told to change the much loved Greenbacks to enable the blind or partially sighted to recognise the different denominations more easily.

For more information see the BBC's news site here

OMRS North

Phil Mussell — 09/05/2008 15:08:00

Can you believe it was two years since the last medal fair at the Holiday Inn Runcorn? No neither can we but it is which means that very soon (May 17-18) we'll be heading up the M5/M6 again to attend the 2008 show. The main bourse is on Sunday but there's a dinner the night before and of course the all important exhibits - it should be a good weekend, see you there!

Coin yearbook 2008 - sold out!

Phil Mussell — 09/05/2008 15:04:00

Unbelievably every single copy of the COIN YEARBOOK 2008 has sold out - that's nearly 10,000 copies sold in six months, and we're still getting order in!

We were thinking of doing a reprint but logically were better off putting all of our efforts into ensuring the 2009 is better than ever - it will be published to coincide with Coinex at the end of September and will be available for pre-order before that.

At just �9.95 it is without a shadow of a doubt the best value coin price guide around - watch this space for details of the next edition...

Medal tracker

Phil Mussell — 06/05/2008 12:45:00

Following the huge numbers of people attending Who do you think you are? at Olympia over the weekend we know that in the coming weeks there will be dozens of new entries added to medaltracker.com

We must have chatted to well over 200 people regarding how they should find out what medals their ancestors were entitled to and what to do when they had found that out and a further 300+ who already knew what they were looking for but didn't know how to go about it - at least some of those are sure to want to go on-line and add their details to our site!

So take a look over the coming days - maybe you've got that lonely BWM or 1914/15 star that the family is so eagerly seeking - wouldn't it be great to see it go back home?

Jonny Wilkinson on a �5 note...?

Phil Mussell — 29/04/2008 14:15:00

Yes it's true - 500 of these special Travelex notes are being given away to anyone who uses a Travelex currency exchange shop to buy Euros in Heathrow's Terminal 5.

The Tfiver uses Jonny, England's Rugby World cup winning drop-goal scorer, as he's one of their brand Ambassadors and it's redeemable at a number of retailers at the Terminal. How long I wonder before they start turning up on the internet auction sites...?

See this story on the Travelex website for more details

Who do you think YOU are?

Phil Mussell — 29/04/2008 11:29:00

Are you coming to Olympia this weekend? We're hoping 20,000+ people will be as it's the second WDYTYA Live exhibition - coupled this year with Military History live!

The event was huge last year and we're all geared up for the same thing again on Friday through Sunday - so why not come along - you can get two tickets for the price of one by logging on here

The show starts at 10am on each of the three days and runs until 6pm on Friday and Saturday and 5pm on Sunday

See you there!

Coming to Harrogate?

Phil Mussell — 21/04/2008 11:00:00

This Friday and Saturday (25 and 26) sees the return of the "Harrogate Show" held in the beautiful setting of the Garden Room at the Old Swan Hotel.

With a number of big name dealers attending and Harrogate itself being such a pleasant Georgian Spa town there are far worse ways to wile away a spring weekend - come say hello to the Token Team (well me at least) as I'm coming all the way up from Devon!

Harrogate - next week

Phil Mussell — 18/04/2008 10:56:00

The Old Swan Hotel, Harrogate once again hosts what used to be COINEX North but is now, successfully, run by Simon Monks.

The fair takes place on Friday 25 and Saturday 26 in the "Garden Room" of this wonderful old hotel and with many big-name dealers coming it will be well worth the trip.

Harrogate itself is a beautiful Spa town and with such delights as the Georgian architecture and Betty's Tea rooms (complete with their famous "Yorkshire fat rascals") it's a lovely place to visit in its own right - why not bring the family!

Kiwi Scorpions - the return....

Phil Mussell — 18/04/2008 10:54:00

It's here, it's ready to ship - the reprinted Kiwi Scorpions (the story of the New Zealanders in the Long Range Desert Group) is available now - it's been updated and amended and is only �29.95 - order your copy today!

Who do you think YOU are?

Phil Mussell — 15/04/2008 14:56:00

Unbelievably the second WDYTYA show is almost upon us and takes place on May 2-4. Last year the show was aimed primarily at the Family history market however, jumping squarely on the military bandwagon, this year it is billed as "three shows in one" comprising "Military History Live", "Who do you think you are live" and "Discover Archaeology live"

We're going, of course, and whilst we'll be "stalling out" in the military section we are hoping that there'll be plenty of family historians who have no prior medal knowledge tuning up as well!

If you're interested in coming along, or maybe someone in your family is compiling the family tree, see the advert in the April, or forthcoming May, edition of MEDAL NEWS for your chance to get discounted tickets!

New designs - the reaction

Phil Mussell — 15/04/2008 14:46:00

There have been some interesting stories coming from the National media regarding our new coinage - the Daily Telegraph called a number of dealers (and us) the day of the launch in order to try and find someone prepared to put a negative spin on the whole thing and the BBC's on-line magazine has been running this having run this for a few days!

Before the launch, and without knowing what the coins were going to look like, we confidently expected there to be a general backlash against them, after all people don't like change - and the media like it even less and true to form there indeed been an adverse reaction from some. However it has not been universal, there have been many who have applauded the Mint's bold move.

The real test, of course, will come when the coins enter circulation and people start handling them for the first time. When exactly that will be we don't yet know - if you find one in your change be sure to tell us won't you!

Aldershot this Sunday!

Phil Mussell — 15/04/2008 09:25:00

Don't forget the Aldershot Medal and Militaria fair this Sunday (April 20) at Prince's Hall, Prince's Way. All those of you who missed Britannia because of the Marathon really ought to come along to this fair - one of the most popular of Mark Carter's events!

As ever preview is 9.30am and the main event starts at 10.30am we'll be there, hope you will too!

The missing penny - Radio 4 today!

Phil Mussell — 13/04/2008 09:00:00

The story of the 1933 penny is well known - but Phil our Marketing Director finds out a few things even seasoned numismatists may not know. Listen to the programme at 2.45pm today straight after Gardener's Question time!

Listen out....

Phil Mussell — 12/04/2008 14:24:00

Phil our Marketing director is on Radio 4 tomorrow - talking about the 1933 penny!

He's interviewing one or two people some of you may know as well.....

2.45pm Radio 4 - straight after Gardener's Question time

The new designs - what do we think?

Jen Welch — 03/04/2008 10:20:00

So they've been unveiled, the designs that will grace the reverses of British coinage in years to come. In a bold move on the part of the Royal Mint the new coins no longer depict a complete image on each one (with the exception of the �1 coin) but instead make up a "jigsaw puzzle" with the picture that emerges when all the coins are placed together being that of the Royal Shield of Arms.

All those who were worried that the new coins would ignore our history and heritage can breathe a sigh of relief. The Royal Shield of Arms is nothing if not "historical" - and has a serious numismatic pedigree (having first appeared on the coinage of Edward III and regularly throughout history since). Those who wanted fresh and bold new designs will also be happy - there is no doubt that this ground breaking concept is innovative and contemporary, the best of both worlds then?

Well yes, and no - the concept is a superb one, very cleverly executed and in the pack we received yesterday at the press launch the coins all look stunning together, but will they work as individual numismatic pieces? Is each design strong enough to stand alone, as coins must? I'm not so sure and whilst I applaud the Royal Mint and designer Matthew Dent for their creativity I feel the jury is still out on whether these coins will be accepted into the public's hearts. Already we're hearing the voices of dissent - the fact there is no numeral on the new coins is an odd decision and rightly questioned. After all if you're a foreign visitor (or even an immigrant) and English is not your first language how will you know what denomination you're spending? And the lack of a Welsh symbol (there's no representation of Wales on the shield) is already raising a few eyebrows on that side of Offa's Dyke. The inclusion of the 1p and 2p in the overall design also crushes the hopes of those who have been campaigning for the demise of our smaller denominations and of course the argument about Britannia no longer featuring will run and run.

Do I like the coins? Yes I do, they're clean, fresh and as a "set" aesthetically pleasing, the design concept, as I said is a brilliant one. Are they classics of numismatics? On that score I'm not so sure

Philip Mussell

New coins released!

Alyson Thomas — 02/04/2008 11:27:00

All circulating coins, with the exception of the �2 coin, will bear the new designs.

A different detail from the shield of the Royal Arms is shown on the reverse of the 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p and 50p coins and when placed together the coins reveal the complete shield. This is the first time that a single design has been used across a range of United Kingdom coins in such a way. The reverse side of the �1 coin shows the complete shield of the Royal Arms. The front of the coins will continue to bear the existing portrait of Her Majesty The Queen by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS, approved for use on United Kingdom coins from 1 January 1998.

Twenty pence coin

Alyson Thomas — 02/04/2008 11:26:00

Twenty pence coin depicting the middle right-hand section of the shield.

The new Fifty pence coin

Alyson Thomas — 02/04/2008 11:26:00

Fifty pence coin showing the bottom of the shield. Note that the coin is actually upside down, with the point of the heptagon now at the bottom.

The 10p

Alyson Thomas — 02/04/2008 11:25:00

Ten pence coin showing two of the three lions of England.

Goodbye to the thistle - the new Five pence coin

Alyson Thomas — 02/04/2008 11:24:00

Five pence coin--- the very centre of the shield.

What? No Feathers? The new 2p

Alyson Thomas — 02/04/2008 11:23:00

Two pence coin depicting the Scottish lion Rampant.

One penny

Alyson Thomas — 02/04/2008 11:22:00

One penny coin, the very top of the Irish harp.

One pound coin - seem familiar?

Alyson Thomas — 02/04/2008 11:21:00

One pound coin: "the jigsaw box lid". The picture is complete.

Interview with the designer.....

Phil Mussell — 02/04/2008 10:31:00

New 2008 reverse British coin designs, congratulations to Matthew Dent of London (pictured).

On this day, the 2nd April 2008, 10:30 am precisely, the world (yes, I believe this story will be covered by the international press) will have the opportunity to see the winning reverse designs for the new coins series dated from 2008 which were chosen to grace British coinage for, what may be many years to come!

It isn�t too often that one is able to write about such an important event in the numismatic world as the changeover from one iconic set of coin designs to another new set. This is however one of these occasions and the wait was worth it. The Royal Mint has been planning this for more than the two or so years which was spent on the choice of design. There has been a great amount of secretive communiques, an even greater amount of frustration for all of our part (the media) to find out just where the Mint was on choosing a winning design and letting the press in on the process.

Having seen the coins ahead of time and speaking to the artist who came up with the unusual concept and design, which I believe shows off British ingenuity marvellously, I hope the Royal Mint, the Banks, post offices and retail outlets who receive their consignment after the official release date, will make a real event out of the day, the coins deserve it, the artist deserves it and we certainly deserve it. The British public will have these extraordinary and innovatively designed coins in their pockets for many years to come and looking to the 2012 Olympiad, these coins will I�m sure, be pocketed in some considerable number by more than the 100,000 visitors relying on them as not just an inexpensive souvenir but to share with friends and family back home.

Well, it�s now time to meet the man in the spotlight, he is Matthew Dent, a 26 year old (he�ll be 27 in August) graphic designer originally from Bangor in North Wales who currently lives and works in London. Matthew trained as an artist at the Coleg Menai in Bangor and went on to study Graphic design at the University of Brighton where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 2003. He has done a bit of travelling as well ending up in Australia and New Zealand for about a year. If all this seems impressive or to some quite mundane, then take into account that Matthew never entered any kind of competition before learning about the Royal Mint�s open competition to design the reverse side of U.K. coinage from a friend (who read about it from a national newspaper and sent Matthew the information by e-mail) and suggested that he enter the competition.

Matthew has suggested that his interest in coins and their design was peaked as far back as 1990 with the issue of the reduced size five pence coin. Ironically, it was also a lecturer at the Coleg Menai who used coins as an example of small scaled and detailed design which further added to his interest in, and with the nation�s coinage which I suppose, has brought Matthew to this historic point not only his career but also to the British nation�s newest chapter in it�s rich and illustrious numismatic account.

As you begin to read my interview with Matthew, you�ll begin to understand the idea and inspiration behind the new and bold designs which won out and stood above all other designs and concepts. (more than 400 entries were considered) How he imagined his own vision of what to include on the seven (originally only due to be six) reverses and how they all specifically played a part in the unique concept of his design.

As many have read recently in several newspapers about how British heritage might be lost with new irrelevant or �un-British� designs or, that there may not be any representation of the country�s traditional insignias or heraldry, look no further for these symbols of �Britishness� or nationhood as they are all present and accounted for. Unless anyone has an opposition to the Royal coat of arms that is, rest assured that the country�s identity is safe and securely affixed on her national coinage. Here is my interview with Matthew in it�s entirety, during my hour, I was privileged to have been given a preview of all the designs as a complete mint set before the public unveiling ceremony today and I must say, I was impressed, by both the new reverses and by the artist / designer who will I think, enjoy the attention he rightfully will receive during the time up to and after the release of the new coins for 2008. Read on & enjoy, and join us again in congratulating Matthew Dent.

As we sit down to our conversation this afternoon, I�m a bit startled to learn that Matthew himself has not yet seen the complete set of coins, �I haven�t seen the finished one pence or the five pence or the twenty pence either� he says �I haven�t seen the one pound coin I don�t think� but looks rather pleased with both the uncirculated coins all in the set as well as the presentation of the new mint set which may be the first articles available to collectors. I feel somewhat privileged to have handed him the complete set and with that out of the way, we sit down during Matthew�s lunch break to discuss the topic of the day, his newly designed coin series,

MA: Matthew Dent, first, a wholehearted congratulations to you and your fantastic designs, they are certainly not what I myself had expected but, they are what I would certainly describe as very imaginative, innovative and really attractive but also on the unconventional side, of course I�m going to ask first, where did you first come up with this concept, You describe part of the process as �seeing six separate discs before realising that each belongs to a bigger picture�� which I think is quite accurate in their description, it�s like nothing else ever seen on British coinage�

MD: Thank you, well the idea really came from the brief, the main and initial target was that it asked for six separate coin designs representing the four countries which make up the U.K. So, you�ve got four countries and six coins, that doesn�t work too well, without showing bias to any specific country. My initial idea which came to mind was a landscape, perhaps an English topic of feature merging with an Irish and a Scottish and Welsh and so on. I wanted to illustrate no clear boundaries with these merging landscapes and once you�ve got a landscape like that, it would have been easy to drop the six coin shapes over it without missing any one country unnecessarily. The problem with that idea was I had problems with the horizontal landscape, it was too linear for the coin designs to make sense. After I looked again at and, gave more thought to the actual brief, there was quite a greater emphasis about heraldry and I considered then the shield or royal arms which worked nicely in my mind because you could arrange the coin shapes next to one another as well above and beneath and I could see some real possibility, it was this route which I chose to explore.

MA: You�ve described taking on a traditional medium in a fresh way and in as much, chose the heraldic direction for the basis of your design since you stated that this subject lent itself to British coinage for hundreds of years, but were there any other considerations you thought of�? I know you�ve mentioned a landscape theme but, in so much as using another insignia or British icon as a base for your designs, would your concept have still lent itself to other subjects�say perhaps Britannia?

MD: Well, the shield of the Royal arms was the first thing that came to my mind after the landscape idea and the first which I explored in detail, and so in this regard it was a solution which I think started to work.

MA: Matthew, Take us through the process of elimination, you decided on the direction and concept that your theme would follow and submitted your designs, how long did you wait before you were contacted by the Mint�, after that, when did you begin to believe that this was something that could be a reality�?

MD: The first part of your question, I think I submitted the designs the early part of September 2005 and it was about two, three weeks or so when I heard back. I know they collected designs from all over the country and they all went before the advisory committee�

MA: Two weeks, that must have been very encouraging for you at that juncture; I remember hearing that there were over 400 entries�

MD: Yes, absolutely, I was delighted to hear from them�

MA: So, when was it that you thought this could be a reality�?

MD: Well, they were enthusiastic when they contacted me, I think they saw potential in what was a fairly basic drawing of mine so, I can�t thank the advisory committee enough for seeing some potential at that point. (smiles)

It was such a long process that it really never felt like a reality until the later stages of the competition that there was a real chance that my designs could go through. That didn�t happen for a year or so after the initial feedback from the Royal Mint. I�m glad however that I had positive feedback during that time but I still wasn�t popping any champagne corks�! (laughs)

MA: As part of the process, I personally want to know, did you employ sketches or computer generated images, I�ve also designed a coin and it was mostly generated by computer, does one have to have a real talent for drawing�?

MD: It (the design) was mainly from a computer. The initial idea of just working out whether it would work was a mixture of printing something off, trimming coins out, arranging them and then much of the rest was done by hand, an arts and crafts kind of approach. That is a process taken with anything I work with, you need to sketch things out quickly and decide whether an idea will succeed or not and go back to the drawing board�

MA: how long was the process for you, when you put all the coins together and decided that had a finished product�?

MD: Hmm� I probably spent a few hours on it, on finding an image to work with, trimming it out, arranging the coin shapes over the shield and realising this concept had possibilities. Then, it took several days of working with the computer and researching several sources of images through books and the internet to find the perfect examples of the three lions on the royal arms or the rampant lion of the Scottish shield to use in my representations. Although the initial effort was quick in understanding whether the idea would work or not, it then took a bit more effort thereafter to take it to a stage that I would be happy to submit my designs to the committee.

MA: For anyone who knows British coinage or those who are dedicated collectors, we will always revere the name of Sir Christopher Ironside, the artist responsible for the present designs which were introduced for decimalisation beginning in 1968 and whose designs your new series will replace. These designs became one of the longest issued coin series from the Royal Mint, did you know anything of him and did you give any thought of what it was going to be like to �fill his shoes� as it were�? He�s a pretty hard act to follow�

MD: He is definitely, and what great designs they are as well, they�ve really stood the test of time, coming up to forty years. It�s a brilliant series and I don�t think anyone could dispute that either, It�s a great privilege for me to follow in his footsteps and I can only hope that my designs are received as well as his were�

MA: When did you learn of him, I know you�re not a dedicated collector of coins�

MD: I only learnt about him through the competition, I must admit that before the competition, I really didn�t have a lot of knowledge or understanding about coinage and its history so his was a name which was often mentioned.

MA: having seen parts of your own website where some of your work is displayed, you seem to gravitate towards an abstract approach to illustration, is this something that you immediately thought could be applied to the new coin series or were you thinking of perhaps a way of fusing tradition with modern display techniques?

MD: Yes, I see what you mean, there is some resemblance to the style of some of the graphics which are displayed on my website and those of the new coins but I hadn�t realised that until now!

MA: There have been a few artists or sculptors from many countries that I am aware of who have taken on the task of coin design as a secondary project and then have continued to contribute designs for not only their own countries but for other markets, now since you�ve had a taste of what this all entails, is this something that you will pursue more aggressively or might you stay with illustrative projects which are not coin or banknote related�?

MD: Well, I�ve really enjoyed this competition, I learnt a lot from it and I�ve met some brilliant people through it so, if the opportunity came around again, I�d really like to be a part of another idea or scheme�

MA: The Olympics are coming up you know�

MD: Well, I think the Royal Mint have this all in hand, it may be too far down the line for submissions or anything like that�

MA: From the background information I�ve read about you, you are born and bred in North Wales. I�ve also read that you took the approach of your concept to what you�ve described as a �united design�� both in terms of theme and surface of the coins themselves, but was there ever a part of you that wanted to see more of the Welsh heritage perhaps, displayed more prominently or included in your new designs�?

MD: Being Welsh, it�s very much a part of who I am, it was a great place to grow up and somewhere you can be very proud of. In terms of representing Wales on my designs, I feel as though I�ve done so in a way since I�ve used the royal arms which represents the United Kingdom completely, I�m really happy with that representation!

MA: As I mentioned earlier the present coin series launched in 1968 have had a forty year span of issue, I don�t think there has been another coin series with the same longevity since the coinage of Queen Victoria, would you like to see your coins around for a similar time frame or do you think there is a �shelf life� perhaps, associated with your designs�?

MD: I imagine there�s a shelf life with any designs, even now as we see with Sir Christopher Ironside and William Gardiner. It�s coming to the end of their series now and it�s been a glorious forty years for the current series but I expect that mine will also have a shelf life, it would be unrealistic to think anything otherwise. I�m just happy to see them in the short term really�

MA: Even if they are minted for a short period, they will still be in circulation for a long time provided we don�t eliminate any denominations or change currency�

MD: yes that�s right, if they�re around for twenty, thirty years or so, brilliant, however, I�m only looking ahead to the launch on Wednesday, and then, eventually seeing them filtering their way into people�s pockets, I think that�s going to be an exciting moment for me when they do but as I mentioned, I�m not looking much further ahead than that�

MA: I always ask this kind of question in this type of situation so you�re going to be no exception, has the impact of this important occasion dawned on you yet and if so, describe for me on a scale of 1 to 10 the level of your excitement�

MD: It�s dawning on me ever more the closer we get. There were points at which it becomes �real�. When trial pieces are cut and all of a sudden you see metal discs whereas before you only saw graphical renderings. Working with the Sculptor John Bergdhal on large pieces, this is when you see a coin-like object and that�s when it hits home. When I visited the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, and was able to push a button and strike the first piece in precious metal, in gold, that was a brilliant moment, spine-tingling for me�

MA; Who has the gold piece�

MD: I�ve no idea� under lock and key probably�! (laughs) I�m sure it�s in their safe but that was another point when it became ever real. Looking ahead to the launch on Wednesday, I think that�s going to be a fairly monumental moment in my life.

MA: at some point, you yourself and 60 million other Britons are going to have a pocketful of what is essentially your imagination from the later part of this year, but speaking of closer to home, what has your family said to you in this respect and when did you tell them�?

MD: Well, my family have followed the progress closely. My Grandparents have more of an affinity with British coinage especially since they remember decimalisation and so on. They�ve been very keen and have asked about the stages which I�ve gone through asking if I�ve seen any of the coins and when is the launch going to take place, they�ve been brilliant as have my parents.

MA: Have you yourself ever been a collector, I know you were sparked by the issue of the smaller 5 pence coin in 1990, any interest now?

MD: My interest would be in finding the Isle of Man pound coins in change and looking at the designs which I wasn�t familiar with. I remember finding the communications pound coin with an earlier mobile phone and an image of a satellite which I thought was interesting. I thought �how brilliant�. My Grandparents would send me commemorative two pound coins and I�d treat them with the same reverence by wrapping them in tissue paper and putting them away. I was seven years old when the new 5 pence coin came out and it did make an impact on me at the time, so shiny and jewel-like�

MA: how ironic that we see you�re now responsible not only the re-design of the 5 pence coin but, for all of the circulation coins�

MD: True, but at the moment, my coin collection is still rather small to date�

MA: The placements of the coins, the two pence coin carrying a portion of the Scottish shield and the ten pence carrying much of the English crest, was there any significance to their positions?

MD: Throughout the competition, we played around with every conceivable position of all diameters and denominations, this is just what worked best. The ten pence, being where it is, the two pence where it is and so on. The three corners, top left, top right and the lower point were the most crucial aspects of the design but you experiment and realise what works and what doesn�t and hone in from then on�

MA: One will immediately realise that to accommodate the lower corner or bottom of the shield, the top point of the shape of the fifty pence coin is now turned upside down, I love it!

MD: It�s always interesting to hear what someone thinks of the designs. I�ve been close to these designs for two and a half years now, they�ve been a big part of my life.

MA: The Bank of England launched a new series last year with the issue of our new �20 banknote, might you have any ideas about what the next note should look like since you�re now the designer of our latest coin series, I believe they are open to suggestions�

MD: There�s a well known economist, Adam Smith on the reverse of the �20, I think he�s a favourite personality of the Governor wasn�t he? Yes, it would be something that I�d be very interested in certainly. It�s a fascinating medium as are coins, there�s so much there to banknotes when you look closely. I�ve learnt alot from this recent process so I�d never rule it out.

MA: Since you�ve finally seen al of the coins together in one set, what would you like the public who see them for the first time as well, to take away as far as what you�ve tried to achieve with your overall design�?

MD: It�s an interesting question, I really want them to bite at the bit to want to play around with them, arranging them to see the overall design and so on. I could see the potential of this when I first thought of the concept, it was what I had in mind, seeing people playing with their arrangements on the counter of a bar or on a desk in a classroom. I�d like to think of people having fun playing around with them, that�s what I�d like the public to take away with these new coins!

MA: They certainly lend themselves to be played around with like a puzzle, I think people will enjoy the new circulation coins of the U.K, I know I�ve enjoyed speaking with you and learning something about the background of the new 2008 circulation coin series.�

Matthew, Once again, on behalf of the London Banknote and Monetary Research Centre as well as COIN NEWS, a wholehearted congratulations on your fantastic achievement, I�m sure I speak for all of our readers when I say that we look forward to perhaps many more projects which bring your talent and numismatics together again.

My after thought? Well I do have a couple or perhaps just one important thought on the subject of the distribution of the new 2008 coins. As Matthew and I discussed his wish that the public get the opportunity to arrange and play with the new coins to get an understanding of the design�s all too important visual concept, it is my real hope that in order to keep the momentum going (which has been built up by the Royal Mint) after more than two years of choosing a design, that they do NOT stagger the distribution of the new coins. To do so would really make a mockery of both the imaginary puzzle-like idea behind these new coins as well as the great British public�s opportunity to become familiar with them. Really, in order to learn more about these coins, one needs ALL of the denominations present at the same time and when the public see them for the first time, you�ll understand what I mean so, Royal Mint� Don�t disappoint, we�re counting on you to do your part don�t and not to let this project down!

My thanks to the Press office of the Royal Mint, Grayling PR for all of their kind assistance to my office and to Matthew Dent for giving up his lunch hour this afternoon, it is greatly appreciated. Michael Alexander, 31st March 2008

Sincerely yours,
Michael Alexander
President,
London Banknote and
Monetary Research Centre

It's today!!!!

Phil Mussell — 02/04/2008 00:01:00

At 10.30 this morning the new designs for Britain's circulating coinage will be unveiled - COIN NEWS will be at the official launch of the coins taking place at the Tower of London and we aim to have the images on this website ASAP - look out after half ten!

New designs - tomorrow!

Phil Mussell — 01/04/2008 10:20:00

Britain's new coin designs are launched tomorrow! See them here first - we'll have images up on this site within minutes of them being unveiled - check back here after 10.30am tomorrow!

And no this is no April fool......

Britain's new designs! Exclusive interview with the designer!

Phil Mussell — 27/03/2008 10:15:00

Watch out on Wednesday when COIN NEWS will bring you an exclusive interview with the designer of Britain's NEW circulating coinage - read all about it here at 10.31am on April 2!

New coin designs - unveiled Wednesday April 2

Phil Mussell — 27/03/2008 10:13:00

It's official the new designs for Britain's circulating coinage will be unveiled on Wednesday April 2 at 10.30am. Coin News will be there and we aim to have the images up on our website almost immediately so watch this space!!!!

Off to Europe

Phil Mussell — 26/03/2008 19:30:00

The Token team is gearing up for next weekend's International Paper Money Fair in Valkenberg, the picturesque market town in the south of the Netherlands.

What was once the "Maastricht" show is hugely popular and attracts dealers and collectors from across the globe. The main event takes place on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 April and it's well worth visiting! See COIN NEWS April or call us on 01404 46792 for further details

Britannia time.....

Phil Mussell — 18/03/2008 11:47:00

It's here again - the second Britannia of the Year

Held, as always at the Victory Service Club just off Edgware Road near Marble Arch in West London - the next show is tomorrow, Sunday April 13 starting at 9.30am. Don't be late....!

New Coin designs - out soon!

Phil Mussell — 12/03/2008 11:52:00

At last we've been told of the date that the new UK coin designs will be launched! We can't divulge it just yet but have been given the following statement from the Royal Mint

The Royal Mint is very excited by the new designs and we are looking forward to launching them in Spring 2008. The new designs take a traditional theme that reflects the nation�s rich heritage, including our historic national and heraldic emblems, and treats it in an innovative and contemporary way.

No further details about the specific designs are being released until the launch.

There are no plans to remove the existing Britannia design 50p coins from circulation - of which there are an estimated 806 million pieces. The Britannia design has a long association with coinage and will continue to feature on the United Kingdom�s coinage for many years to come. It and other traditional designs will also appear on new coins to be issued in the future.

We'll let you know more as soon as we can!

New Operational honours - most MCs won since WWII

Phil Mussell — 07/03/2008 14:31:00

According to the BBC the new Operational Honours shows that no fewer than 28 Military Crosses were awarded in the Operational Honours that covers service from April 2007 - September 2007

For the full story click here

Essay Competition

Phil Mussell — 29/02/2008 14:12:00

Don't panic - we're still wading through the pile of excellent entries we received (you guys really are talented) and will get back to you with a winner as soon as we can!

Kiwi Scorpions - back soon!

Phil Mussell — 29/02/2008 14:09:00

Yes it's at the printers now - the long awaited return of the revised Kiwi Scorpions

Don't miss out pre-order your copy today from our on-line store!

Army and Navy lists - now available

Phil Mussell — 29/02/2008 14:07:00

We've located a supplier of Army and Navy lists on CD Rom and DVD and we've ordered a number for the more "significant" years.

We're offering them through the pages of MEDAL NEWS and in our on-line shop now -so if you've always wanted an Army list from the Crimea or one of the huge ones from the end of the First World War but couldn't justify either the expense or the shelf space of the original book now's your chance!

Radio Star...

Phil Mussell — 29/02/2008 13:58:00

Those of you in Devon will be able to hear Token's own Radio "Star" every fortnight when Phil is on the Richard Green afternoon show talking coins, medals, banknotes et al - he's already done two shows and his next appearance is on Monday March 10 at 3.45pm then every second Monday after that until the good people of Devon stop phoning in with their queries.

He can also be heard on Radio 4 on April 13 at 2.45pm (straight after Gardner's Question Time) when he's presenting a 15 minute show on the "missing" 1933 Penny

Stratford next

Phil Mussell — 29/02/2008

Don't forget Mark Carter's Stratford Upon Avon Show on Sunday March 16!

Stratford is one of our favourite towns and with a good base of collectors in the area it is always worthwhile us going - and the other dealers seem to think the same - there's always a waiting list for tables

The show is held in the leisure centre (very easy to get to on the one way system) and starts at 9.30 am for preview (any one can attend but it costs a little more to get in) or 10.30am for "normal trading"

We'll be there with stocks of all our books - come along and say hello!

We're revamping.....

Phil Mussell — 14/02/2008 12:38:00

our website soon and we'd like your opinions on what you want to see featured on it.

Maybe you'd like to see more products for sale, more links to dealers and auctioneers or more articles/features.

Perhaps you'd like to see more information - hints and tips on collecting etc or maybe you'd like to have your tricky queries answered on-line.

Whatever your thoughts email me on

with your ideas - I look forward to hearing from you

The London Coin Fair - this weekend!!

Phil Mussell — 03/02/2008 16:56:00

Join the Token team at this Saturday's London Coin Fair at the Holiday Inn, Coram Street, Bloomsbury!

the event is well attended by dozens of dealers and there really is something for everyone - especially as Baldwin's hold their Argentum sale in the same venue in the afternoon!

We never miss the show and look forward to saying hello to old friends and to making some new ones! The fair opens at 9.30am on and closes at 5.00pm although with a long trek back west we may not be there until then so if you're after a new COIN YEARBOOK or hoping to renew your COIN NEWS subscription don't leave it too late!

Spink to Exhibit 50 Victoria Crosses

Phil Mussell — 01/02/2008 15:58:00

Spink, in association with the Ashcroft V.C. Trust has just announced that they will be hosting an exhibition of fifty Victoria Crosses from the most important collection of these Awards ever formed.

Britain�s largest display of the world�s highest and most prestigious Decoration for Gallantry for over half a century will be open to the General Public in Spink�s Main Gallery, 16th-25th April 2008.

The Exhibition features Crosses, together with how they were won, from the Crimean War to the Second World War, encompassing 15 different armed conflicts.

This �Hall of Fame� includes V.C.�s awarded to Lieutenant John Rouse Merriott Chard, R.E., immortalised for his Gallantry and Leadership whilst Commanding the Mission Station at Rorke�s Drift, against 4,500 Zulus, 1879 South Africa;

Lieutenant William Leefe Robinson, R.F.C., the first pilot to shoot down a German Zeppelin over mainland Britain in the Great War 1914-19;

Crosses for The Defence of Mafeking,The Boxer Rebellion, The Lancashire Landings at Gallipoli and the Western Desert in 1941 will be on display alongside the incredible Cross to Sergeant Norman Cyril Jackson, R.A.F., who diced with death at 22,000 feet above Germany attempting to extinguish a fire on the wing of a Lancaster Bomber.

Lord Ashcroft stated, �I am delighted to be co-operating with Spink, the world�s oldest medal dealers, by loaning them a selection of Victoria Crosses for their forthcoming exhibition in April. It is anticipated that the entire collection will be available for permanent public display in 2010 but, in the meantime, I hope that this Spink exhibition will provide a worthy foretaste of my aim to celebrate and commemorate �the bravest of the brave� from our history.�

MEDAL NEWS February!

Phil Mussell — 01/02/2008 14:58:00

Is on it's way - it has been posted out and should be with subscribers on Monday or Tuesday of next week....!

Britannia banished from coins!

Phil Mussell — 01/02/2008 14:52:00

So ran the headline on last Sunday's Mail on Sunday - apparently, according to their source, Britannia, first used on coins in 1672 will no longer feature. Our heritage is being thrown away....

What's really interesting about this story is that in fact the Mail on Sunday have NO evidence for this claim whatsoever - we are assured by the Royal Mint that nobody knows what the new coins will look like apart from those directly involved in the process!

Where the Mail got their information from is anyone's guess but we are assured COIN NEWS readers will be amongst the first to see the new designs when they are launched in the spring

Watch out in MARCH's COIN NEWS for more information.

Essay Competition

Phil Mussell — 01/02/2008 14:49:00

Thanks to all who've sent in their entries over the past couple of months - they've proved very interesting and entertaining reading! We'll be looking at them again in the next few weeks and will announce the winners in COIN NEWS just as soon as we can!

London Coin Fair February 9

Phil Mussell — 01/02/2008 14:46:00

At the Holiday Inn Bloomsbury - we'll be there - hope you will too!

Krause 1701-1800 AT LAST!!

Phil Mussell — 04/01/2008 14:45:00

After what seems like an age this new edition of the Krause Standard Catalogue of World Coins is now available from our on-line store - order your copy today!

Christmas Opening times

Phil Mussell — 21/12/2007 13:00:00

The office is now closed until Thursday January 3rd - we'd like to wish all of our readers and customers a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

Christmas Opening times

Phil Mussell — 11/12/2007 15:19:00

We're "breaking up" on Friday December 21st and won't be back in the office until Thursday January 3rd 2008.

We'll do our best to fulfill all orders before then but please bear in mind if you haven't received your books before we shut the office for Christmas we really can't do anything about it until the New Year.

We can promise that any orders received up until Thursday December 20th will be dispatched, whether they get to you in time is in the hands of the Gods (or Royal Mail at least!)

Christmas delivery

Phil Mussell — 11/12/2007 15:17:00

We're doing our best to get all orders out before Christmas, obviously there are no guarantees (the post seems to be all over the place at the moment) but if you order before Wednesday 19th you should get your books/magazines before the big day (UK Only). If y9ou need something urgently we are happy to help with Special delivery/courier but please bear in mind these will cost more!

Stop thief

Phil Mussell — 11/12/2007 15:08:00

This just in from CJ and AJ Dixon of Bridlington

Sadly the following medals have been stolen from the bereaved family home of the late Cpl. I.F. Spencer. They are believed to have gone missing sometime between the end of Nov and 4th Dec from their home in the Birmingham area.

The medals in question are both named to Cpl. I.F. Spencer, Royal Marines.

C.S.M. (Northern Ireland) & South Atlantic Medal

Cpl. I.F. Spencer was sadly killed in the Falklands War and as you will imagine these medals are of great value to his family. If you are offered them or are aware of them being offered elsewhere then please contact us immediately and we will pass on the information to the family and the police. Please quote reference number 30603 if you contact us. Let us hope that we can track down these medals to be returned to the family who lost their son fighting for his country.

Also missing are two medals stolen during a burglary at the home of the recipient in Nayland, Colchester, earlier this week. Hadleigh Police Station are dealing with this incident and the crime number is HD/07/2144.

G.S.M. clasps South Arabia & Northern Ireland inscribed Lieut. A.G. Gowen Royal Marines

South Atlantic Medal with Rosette inscribed Major A.G. Gowen Royal Marines

If anyone can help with either of these groups please contact Dixon's on

C J & A J Dixon Ltd
Rosendale House
23 Prospect Street
Bridlington
East Yorkshire
YO15 2AE

e-mail: chris@dixonsmedals.co.uk

Tel: + 44 (0)1262 676877/603348

Don't forget our essay competition!

Phil Mussell — 04/12/2007 12:41:00

You can win �200 by telling us - in 500 words - why you became a collector!

It's that easy....

We're looking for something that grabs our attention, something interesting - so get writing - you have until January 31 2008

Send your entries in to the COIN NEWS ofice or email info@tokenpublishing.com

Full details are as follows:

Essay Competition�win �200!

Thanks once again to the generosity of COIN NEWS reader Geoff Simms we are able to offer readers the chance to win �200 with the Token Publishing essay competition!

The competition we ran last year was for junior collectors and whilst we did have a good response the entries weren�t perhaps as numerous as we might have hoped (we got dozens but in our naivety we had hoped for hundreds). There are, we fear, perhaps not hundreds of junior collectors out there! One thing did surprise us though and that was the number of readers who wrote/telephoned/emailed stating that actually they�d have liked to have taken part but were excluded because it was only open to under 18s (although judging by a couple of the entries there was a certain amount of �ghost writing� by some slightly older collectors�you know who you are!).

With this in mind this year�s competition is once again going to be open to Junior collectors (after all we really do want to encourage as many as possible) but there is also another category for all of us older numismatists. This year there will be a first prize of �200 and a second prize of �100 in each of two categories, i.e. there will be four prizes in total: (1) �18 and under� (on January 31 2008) and (2) the �Open� category for everyone else! The subject this time around is slightly different too�we want you to tell us how, and why, you started collecting in the first place!

Did you check your change for rarities�those Victorian shillings still in circulation in the 1960s? Did you search for the H or KN pennies? Did you bring back coins from holiday and get the �bug� that way? Maybe you�re a metal detectorist, archaeologist or historian and have come to coins as an adult through your other hobby, or maybe it was a childhood passion. Did your father perhaps collect? Or maybe your friends did. Maybe you do it for investment and started in preference to buying shares or maybe you used to collect something else and �drifted� into coins almost by accident! Tell us about when you started collecting too: were you a pre-decimal coin hunter or have you only grown up with the uniformity of the modern coinage? Tell us what first attracted you to this hobby and, of course what�s kept you here�and try and do it all in 500 words or less!

To enter all you have to do is send your work to us at �Essay Competition�, Token Publishing Ltd, Orchard House, Duchy Road, Heathpark, Honiton EX14 1YD. All entries must be received by January 31, 2008 at the latest. There are no right or wrongs in this . . . quite simply, the ones that catch our imagination best will win�it�s that easy, so get writing!

Please note that all entries will automatically be put forward to the �Open� category unless clearly marked as being for the �Under-18� category. Remember we�re looking for 500 words or less�we aren�t going to be too strict on this but no full numismatic autobiographies please �one side or so of A4 is fine!

Good Luck!

�We look forward to hearing from you and are hoping for some great tales! The winning entries will be published in a forthcoming issue of COIN NEWS.

Nine VCs stolen in New Zealand

Phil Mussell — 04/12/2007 12:31:00

In a well executed raid on the Waioru Army Museum early on Sunday December 2 2007 a number of important medal groups - including nine Victoria Crosses, Charles Upham's VC and bar amongst them, were stolen.

Two George Medal's, an Albert Medal and an unspecified number of other groups were also among the awards to vanish.

Sadly it is unlikely these medals will surface on the open market so telling readers to "look out" for them is a tad pointless, all we can really do is hope that the perpetrators of what seems to be a planned "to order" theft are swiftly caught and shot - or at least brought to some form of justice.

Great New Book!

Phil Mussell — 20/11/2007 10:02:00

You're obviously Internet "savvy" - you're reading this on-line after all, but no matter how good you are with the web it can be a frustrating place to be at times.

We've all been there - we're doing a bit of research, try to search for something that we're sure is out there somewhere but to no avail. Soon what should have been a simple five minute browse becomes a full on marathon and we're left tearing our hair out

Well those days are gone with the publication of Researching British Military History on the Internet! Essentially this book is a directory of all the best Military history websites and could save you hours of trawling round the 'net - well worth a look, especially as it's only �12.50!

Get your copy from our on-line shop today

A controversial design

Phil Mussell — 08/11/2007 16:43:00

It seems that South Korea's decision to use the image of a 16th Century symbol of motherhood on one of its banknotes has caused something of a rumpus!

Shin Saimgdang, regarded by many as a "maternal icon" will appear on the new 50,000 won note due out in 2009 but it seems that the feminist lobby in South Korea are not happy - stating that the choice reinforced sexist stereotypes of women as mothers and nurturers.

Kiwi Scorpions - the return....

Phil Mussell — 30/10/2007 12:24:00

After long deliberations we have decided we WILL be reprinting Kiwi Scorpions the much acclaimed book by Brendan O'Carroll on the New Zealanders in the Long Range Desert Group during WWII.

The book has become an accepted authority on the subject and copies are changing hands for hundreds of pounds on Internet auction sites. We originally printed 1,000 copies but they soon sold -we always resisted doing a reprint but now feel that enough people are interested to warrant the expense and as such we will be printing a revised edition. Brendan has given us some useful amendments and updates and we will be ready to go some time early next year!

If you are interested in receiving details of the book then do please let me know by emailing

phil@tokenpublishing.com

Be sure to include the word KIWI in the subject line

Win �200 with our Essay Competition!

Phil Mussell — 30/10/2007 12:19:00

Essay Competition � win �200!

Thanks once again to the generosity of COIN NEWS reader Geoff Simms we are able to offer readers the chance to win �200 with the Token Publishing essay competition!

The last competition we ran was for junior collectors and whilst we did have a good response the entries weren�t perhaps as numerous as we might have hoped (we got dozens but in our naivety we had hoped for hundreds, there are, we fear, perhaps not hundreds of junior collectors out there! One thing did surprise us though and that was the number of readers who wrote/telephoned/emailed stating that actually they�d have liked to have taken part but were excluded because it was only open to under 18s (although judging by a couple of the entries there was a certain amount of �ghost writing� by some slightly older collectors � you know who you are!).

With this in mind this year�s competition is once again going to be open to Junior collectors (after all we really do want to encourage as many as possible) but there is also another category for all of us slightly older numismatists. This year there will be two first prizes of �200 and two second prizes of �100 and two categories: 18 and under (on January 31 2008) and the �open� category for everyone else! The subject this time around is slightly different too � we want you to tell us how, and why, you started collecting in the first place!

Did you used to check your change for rarities � those Victorian shillings still in circulation in the sixties? Did you bring back coins from holiday and get the �bug� that way? Maybe you�re a metal detectorist, archaeologist or historian and have come to coins as an adult through your other hobby or maybe it was a childhood passion. Did your father perhaps collect? Or maybe your friends did. Maybe you do it for investment and started rather than buying shares or maybe you used to collect something else and �drifted into coins oir banknotes almost by accident! Tell us about when you started collecting too, were you a pre-decimal coin hunter or have you only grown up with the uniformity of the modern coinage? Tell us what first attracted you to this hobby and, of course what�s kept you here � and try and do it all in 500 words or less!

To enter all you have to do is send your work into us at �Essay Competition� Token Publishing Ltd, Orchard House, Duchy Road, Heathpark, Honiton EX14 1YD. All entries must be received by January 31 2008 at the latest. There are no right or wrongs in this, quite simply the ones that catch our imagination best will win � it�s that easy, so get writing!

Please note that all entries will automatically be put forward to the �Open� category unless clearly marked as being for the Under 18 category. Remember we�re looking for less than 500 words � we aren�t going to be too strict on this but no full numismatic autobiographies please � one side or so of A4 is fine!

Good luck� we look forward to hearing from you and are hoping for some great tales!

Send your entries to Essay Competition, Token Publishing Ltd, Orchard House, Duchy Road, Heathpark, Honiton, EX14 1YD - or email them to

info@tokenpublishing.com

making sure the subject line contains the words "Essay Competition"

Wellington Auctions

Phil Mussell — 28/10/2007 16:41:00

Please note that there will be NO wellington Auctions postal auction catalogue in the next MEDAL NEWS - so please don't think you're missing out if our copy doesn't have one in - none of them do....!

Token Team heads North

Phil Mussell — 24/10/2007 16:29:00

We're off to the Leeds (Morley) show on Sunday! Held at the Cedar Court Hotel just off of the M1 b(junction 39) this excellent monthly show has been around for some time and is always popular.

See

for more about teh hotel - maybe make a weekedn of it!

To Aldershot.....

Phil Mussell — 23/10/2007 10:19:00

The MEDAL NEWS team will be at Aldershot (Prince's Hall, Prince's Way) on Sunday November 4, we'll have the new MEDAL YEARBOOK as well as the New Honour teh Navies - a must have for WWII gallantry collectors!!

The event starts at 9.30am (preview) or 10.30am for those who don't want to pay that bit extra

See you there!

Bromley on Sunday!

Phil Mussell — 05/10/2007 15:18:00

Come along to the Bromley Civic Centre on Sunday for Ray Brough's Medal Fair - we're making the journey all the way from Devon and hope you'll be there too....

Come and pick up one of the latest MEDAL YEARBOOKS - essential reading!

NEW KRAUSE!!

Phil Mussell — 02/10/2007

The new Krause Standard Catalogue of World Coins 1901-2000 is out NOW!

We're selling them in our on-line store now - be sure to secure your copy!!

Also available is the new 2001 - date catalogue - essential reading if you're a new issues collector!

Coinex

Phil Mussell — 26/09/2007 16:38:00

Are you coming? It's on this weekend (Friday and Saturday) at Earl's Court - we'll be there and hope to see you too!

Where are we next? Medal News

Phil Mussell — 17/09/2007 10:54:00

The Token Team is out and about quite a lot over the next few weeks - we hope to catch you at one of the many fairs we'll be attending

We are at:

The OMRS in the New Connaught Rooms, Covent Garden on Saturday 22 where we're launching our MEDAL YEARBOOK 2008

Yate on September 30 - our "Local" show

Bromley on October 7 - a bit further afield!

Stratford on October 21 - one of our favourite venues

Leeds (Morley) - the Cedar Court hotel on October 28 (a coin and medal fair - we're hoping to make it - we will confirm nearer the time)

Aldershot on November 4

Britannia (Victory Services club, Marble Arch) on November 18

A packed schedule as you can see!

Honour the Navies

Phil Mussell — 17/09/2007 10:51:00

The final vaolume of Micheal Maton's WWII "Honour the ...." series is now available - come and pick up your copy at OMRS on Saturday....!!

Medal Yearbook launch

Phil Mussell — 17/09/2007 10:47:00

The New MEDAL YEARBOOK is being launched this Saturday at OMRS - don't miss out on your copy!

Order today via our on-line store or by calling 01404 44166

All pre-ordered copies will be posted out on Thursday (September 20) and should be with UK readers on Saturday. Overseas orders will also be posted then but will take a little longer to arrive!

New from Krause

Phil Mussell — 13/09/2007 12:55:00

The latest Krause titles - Modern Issue 2001-date and Modern World Gold Coins 1801-date are now available from our on-line shop!

Coin yearbook 2008

Phil Mussell — 13/09/2007 12:36:00

The BEST VALUE price guide t British Coins, bar none will be launched at Coinex on September 29 - you can buy your copy from our website today!

Once again in FULL COLOUR and only �9.95 there is no other book that come sclose to the COIN YEARBOOK. Pre-order your copy today

Krause 1701-1800

Phil Mussell — 23/08/2007 14:52:00

For all of you waiting pateintly for this title - you'll be pleased to hear that the publication date has been brought forward - we now hope to have stocks in before Christmas. Watch thi sspace for further details

MEDAL YEARBOOK - now stronger than ever!

Phil Mussell — 23/08/2007 14:50:00

For those of you worried that your YEARBOOK might not stand up all you put it through - don't worry any more! This year's YEARBOOK will have thread sewn as well as glued binding making it stronger than ever!

Yearbook Launch - OMRS 2008

Phil Mussell — 23/08/2007 14:47:00

Once again the acclaimed MEDAL YEARBOOK is to be launched at the OMRS convention in the New Connaught Rooms, Queen Street, Covent Garden - this year on September 22.

The Token Team will be there in force, both with the new YEARBOOK (in hard and softback) and HONOUR THE NAVIES too - come along , say hello and pick up your copy

See you then!

OMSA success

Phil Mussell — 17/08/2007 14:35:00

Thanks must go to Chris Cawthorne and the Organising committee of the Orders and Medals Society of America for yet another successful and enjoyable convention - the Houston Hotel was a real gem and I hope we'll be back there in years to come.

See you all in Jacksonville in 08!

Dublin in October

Phil Mussell — 17/08/2007 14:33:00

We'd just like to point out that the forthcoming Dublin Coin fair at the RDS, Ballsbridge takes place on October 12-14 2007 not 2006 as per the advert in COIN NEWS. So yes it is on this year!

Ooops.....!

Coin Yearbook 2008

Phil Mussell — 10/08/2007 12:46:00

Once again the new issue of this acclaimed work - by far and away the best value for money coin price guide on the market - will be launched at Coinex - this year on September 28-29 at Earl's Court London!

The book will be available to buy via our on-line shop soon - watch this space for details

Medal Yearbook 2008

Phil Mussell — 10/08/2007 12:43:00

As always the new edition of the MEDAL YEARBOOK will be published in conjunction with the OMRS convention in the New Connaught rooms, Queen Street, Covent Garden - this year on September 22.

The book will be available on line soon so watch this space! As always there will be a very limited edition hardback version available too!

Heading For Texas

Phil Mussell — 25/07/2007 12:35:00

Are you coming to OMSA this year? The Orders and Medals Society of America annual convention is this year being held in the Woodland Waterway Marriott Hotel in Houston Texas on August 9-11 (the "open day" is Saturday 11 for non-OMSA members) The Medal News team (well Phil) will be there - come along and say hello

Stop thief

Phil Mussell — 25/07/2007 12:30:00

The MOD police have informed us of the theft of a group of medals from Royal Marine Sergeant K Cripps. The group - which comprised:

Northern Ireland GSM,
Sierra Leone OSM,
Bosnia,
Afghanistan,
QGJM
LS &GC

were stolen whilst Sgt Cripps was on a tour of Duty in Afghanistan - some people, it seems, have no respect at all.

If anyone has any information about these medals please contact P C McCourt on 01935 455234

Honour the Navies - It's here

Phil Mussell — 23/07/2007 10:27:00

The trilogy is complete- the final part of the Honour series of Gallantry Awards in WWII is now available - order your copy today!

MEDALS AT YORK

Phil Mussell — 17/07/2007

A number of high profile Medal dealers will again be in attendance at the increasingly popular YORK COIN FAIR, now becoming firmly established as a medal event too! Come along and support them if you can - and say hello to the Token team too - we'll be there as always, we wouldn't miss it.

The next event is on Friday July 20 and Saturday July 21 2007 again at the wonderful venue of the Knavesmire Stand at the York Racecourse .

New "Pick"

Phil Mussell — 06/07/2007 11:27:00

The latest (13th) edition of the World Paper Money (modern issues 1961 -date) is available now - be sure to order your copy in our on line store!!

Medal Yearbook 2008

Phil Mussell — 05/07/2007 17:09:00

We're putting teh finishing touches to this year's YEARBOOK even as we speak - so any corrections/amendments please let us know ASAP!

Watch this space for details on how you can order your copy

Britannia? Not this time

Phil Mussell — 05/07/2007 17:05:00

Sadly we won't be attending the Britannia show on Sunday July 8 - personal commitments (It's John - the Editor's birthday) mean that we'll have to wait until November to visit the Victory Services Club again. We'll be in London for the OMRS convention in September of course so hope to see everyone then

Stop thief!

Phil Mussell — 03/07/2007 16:13:00

Stolen last week from a house in Tonbridge

2 clasp GSM to 23854841 Pte R Randall along with the recipient's father's WWII medals (three stars, defence and war)

Any information to teh Medal News office via email or 01404 46972

Format of Birmingham

Phil Mussell — 22/06/2007 15:34:00

Garry from Format would like to point out that he has nothing whatsoever to do with Saxby's Coins, indeed had never heard of them until yesterday, despite assertions by that company that Format is affiliated with them.

Honour the Navies - Coming soon

Phil Mussell — 18/06/2007 15:12:00

We've gone to press with the final book in the WWII "Honour the....." Trilogy.

Honour the Navies- a complete list of all honours and Awards to the Royal, Merchant and Dominion Navies in WWII will be available very soon

Watch this space for details!

Ray Brough

Phil Mussell — 12/06/2007 15:38:00

We extend our best wishes for a speedy recovery to Ray Brough - organiser of the Bromley Fair and Speedbid.

He was involved in a very nasty hit and run on the Sunday after the Bromley fair and is still in hospital having suffered severe breaks to his left leg and foot and massive bruising of his back and chest. Thankfully the injuries are not life threatening and he does hope to be out of hospital and at least hobbling about before the next Bromley fair in August.

In the meantime he does ask anyone who is involved in bidding or selling on Speedbid, or who has queries regarding the Bromley fair, to be patient as he is without internet access/a mobile phone at present. All emails/calls will be returned as soon as he is able.

Can't make the LCF?

Phil Mussell — 23/05/2007 13:05:00

Don't worry if you can't make it to London in June for the London Coin Fair - you can catch up with the COIN NEWS team the following day (June 10) at the Birmingham Coin Fair! Yes, the moment the London fair closes we're heading away from home and up to the NEC at Birmingham.....We must be mad......!!

Midlands for Medals

Phil Mussell — 23/05/2007 13:02:00

The Token team will be at the Birmingham Coin Fair on June 10 not simply in their COIN NEWS capacity but to promote medals too. The organisers of the monthly fair are hoping to incorporate medals into the line up at least three times a year with the first combined show in June. The fair is held in the newly refurbished Motorcycle Museum opposite the NEC.

Watch this space for future "Medal" dates

London Bound

Phil Mussell — 23/05/2007 12:59:00

As always the Token team will be at the London Coin Fair, Holiday Inn, Bloomsbury on June 9. In fact there will be a full compliment of us there as we're bringing along other members of the team - Celia and Fiona - to meet some of the people they deal with on a day to day basis!

If you want to meet them (or even if you just want to come along and buy some books!) then we'll see you on the 9th....

Check the Medal Tracker!

Phil Mussell — 09/05/2007 09:51:00

We had an overwhelming response to our presence at the family History show "Who Do you think you are?" with hundreds of people eager to take advantage of the Medal tracker service - but the service is only as good as those who use it so be sure to check back over the next few weeks as there are sure to be lots of new entries.

Hidden error

Phil Mussell — 09/05/2007 09:49:00

Stop looking! There is no word "Hidden" in the May word search competition - a proof reading error led to the word hidden being misspelled with an extra D - so we are excepting entries either without the word found at all or the word "hiddden" ringed.

Sorry about that.....

Shillings at Bloomsbury

Phil Mussell — 30/04/2007 17:31:00

Bloomsbury Auctioneers have a fanstastic hammered & milled shilling collection coming up in their 30 May sale, from Philip & Mary to George III, around 100 lots of superb Shillings including early milled Charles II, James II and William III with lustre...formed over 20-40 years ago by a now-retired collector from Exmoor.

In addition there is also the archive of T.Harrison engravings direct from the family which has hundreds of test prints, vignettes etc including partial test prints of Irish & Scottish notes including two partial prints of the ten Shiilling Lavery in green!

More details as we get them

Who do you think YOU are?

Phil Mussell — 25/04/2007 13:00:00

The UK's first ever "National History Show" is to take place in Olympia over the first May Bank Holiday Weekend (5-7).

Over 20,000 visitors are expected to attend the event which will cater for all those interested in history - particularly family history and research.

MEDAL NEWS will be there alongside the National Archives. ancestry.co.uk, The Daily telegraph, the Society of genealogists and many many more - visit www.whodoyouthinkyouare.co.uk for more details.
Look out in MEDAL NEWS May for the two for one ticket offer

2nd ever VC goes well

Phil Mussell — 20/04/2007 12:26:00

The VC of Commander, Later Rear Admiral, John Bythesea, awarded for service in the Crimea in August 1854 made a good price when it came under the hammer at Spink on April 19

The cross, the second ever awarded, fetched �155,350 and was bought by an agent who's name has been closely linked with Lord Ashcroft's collection in the past - maybe the country's premier gallantry collection just got a little bigger?

For further details of this and other prices realised the sale visit www.spink.com

Krause 1801-1900

Phil Mussell — 20/04/2007

The new Standard Catalog of World Coins 1801-1900 is selling fast - we stall have copies in stock - but not many!

This is a BRAND NEW catalogue, don't miss out order yours from our book section today!

Coming to Yate?

Phil Mussell — 16/04/2007 14:47:00

As ever Medal News will be at the Yate (Bristol) Medal Fair on Sunday April 29. Our "local" show is one we always try and attend and we look forward to seeing old friends and new collectors alike.

The show starts at 9.30am for "preview" with entry proper commencing at 10.30am

We'll have stocks of all the old favourites as well as the new MEDAL YEARBOOK 2007 and the BRAND NEW British Battles and Medals

See you there I hope!

Aldershot this Sunday!

Phil Mussell — 11/04/2007 17:31:00

We won't be there I'm afraid but there are still plenty of other dealers to visit!

Don't miss it!

Yeovil anyone?

Phil Mussell — 11/04/2007 17:26:00

The Token team is splitting its forces on April 29 as we are attending not one but two fairs that day!

We have our "regular" Mark Cater Yate fair as well as a new venture - the Military book fair in Yeovil. Keep the day free - more details to follow

Banknote yearbook 5th edition NOW IN HARDBACK!

Phil Mussell — 04/04/2007

The FIFTH edition of the sell-out BANKNOTE YEARBOOK is available now

A full revision process has been undertaken to ensure that once again this work is the DEFINITIVE guide to English, Scottish, Northern Irish and Island notes - it will be the only book you need and well worth waiting for we can assure you - we are planning to launch the title at the International Papermoney Show in Maastricht (Valkenberg), Holland in Early April.

Once again EVERY NOTE WILL BE ILLUSTRATED IN FULL COLOUR, there will now be three grades of condition for English notes and a new section on errors and misprints. Not only that but because we produce the YEARBOOK only every two years we recognise you need something that will last - no matter how many times you refer to it - that's why the fifth edition is hardback - but still under �20!

Order your copy today!!

Spink innovations

Phil Mussell — 21/03/2007 15:05:00

New from Spink comes the first medal podcast!

View highlights of their next sale on your mp3 player - just visit

http://www.spink.com/podcast/index.html

Medals at Harrogate

Phil Mussell — 14/03/2007 10:31:00

Well known Yorkshire based dealer Chris Dixon will be attending the Harrogate show for the first time - so all you collectors who thought it was just coins think again!

Chris always has a good selection on offer and often has some amazing groups (there are the lowly singles too of course). So get along to the Old Swan Hotel, Harrogate on March 23 and 24 to say hello - the MEDAL NEWS team will be there too!!

New �20 unveiled

Phil Mussell — 13/03/2007 10:23:00

Today (March 13th) sees the release of the new �20, replacing, in due course, the Elgar notes first put into circulation eight years ago. The new note, featuring Scottish economist Adam Smith has a host of new security features - including a holographic security strip - and boasts a more modern, some say European, design.

It is of course the first time that a Scotsman has appeared on a Bank of England note and we are sure that the fact that Smith was born in Kirkacaldy, Fife part of what is now the Parliamentary constituency of Gordon Brown our potential next PM is pure coincidence.....

The colouring is different too - with more purple and blue than mauve. It is, we are certain, going to raise a few eyebrows!

Are you going to Harrogate?

Phil Mussell — 07/03/2007 16:53:00

What used to be Coinex North is now being run, very capably, by Simon Monks. The show, held in the "Garden wing" of the Old Swan Hotel in the Beautiful spa town of Harrogate, wasn't on last year but it's back in 2007 and promises to be very well attended with some major dealers making the trip North! The Token team will be there for the whole weekend (Friday 23 - Saturday 24 March) and we hope to see you there!

Bromley!

Phil Mussell — 28/02/2007

We always try and attend at least one Bromley show a year - and this Sunday is probably the only one we can make - so we hope to see as many of you there as possible too!

Sunday 9.30am Bromley Civic Centre - see you there!

I don't care how sunny it is - get yourselves along to the Civic Centre, Stockwell Close, Kentish Way for 9.30am - you know you want to!!

Soldiers Records go on line

Phil Mussell — 23/02/2007 11:49:00

The National Archives (formerly the PRO) has put the service records of WWI soldiers on-line for the first time. Not all soldiers records are available (around 60% were lost when the original records office was bombed in WWII) but there are still hundreds of thousands that can be viewed. At this stage only servicemen with surnames starting A and B can bee seen but the remainder will be available in time. For more information visit - http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/

Are you in Dublin at all in the next few days?

Phil Mussell — 17/02/2007

If you are then come along to the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) Ballsbridge and say hello to us at the Irish International Coin Show.

Maybe you don't know much about coins, banknotes or medals and want to learn a little more? Well that's fine, some along to our table, pick up a free sample of COIN NEWS, maybe buy yourself a COIN YEARBOOK (say you saw this on the website and we'll do you a great price I promise!) and pick our brains - we're a friendly bunch I promise you!

The show's on until 5.00pm today and tomorrow (17th and 18th) but if you're coming on Sunday I recommend getting there a bit earlier as a lot of the dealers have to leave early to catch planes and ferries home!

Are you in Dublin at all in the next few days?

Phil Mussell — 15/02/2007 16:32:00

If you are then come along to the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) Ballsbridge and say hello to us at the Irish International Coin Show.

Maybe you don't know much about coins, banknotes or medals and want to learn a little more? Well that's fine, some along to our table, pick up a free sample of COIN NEWS, maybe buy yourself a COIN YEARBOOK (say you saw this on the website and we'll do you a great price I promise!) and pick our brains - we're a friendly bunch I promise you!

The show's on until 5.00pm Saturday and Sunday (17th and 18th) but if you're coming on Sunday I recommend getting there a bit earlier as a lot of the dealers have to leave early to catch planes and ferries home!

Britannia

Phil Mussell — 15/02/2007 16:12:00

Don't forget it's Britannia time again soon - next weekend (February 25th) sees the first of this year's fairs at the Victory Services Club, London (just off Marble Arch) and as ever the Token team will be there with copies of the latest magazine, the MEDAL YEARBOOK and the new edition of British Battles and Medals.

Britannia is the only purely medal show in the country and is well worth a visit!

Beauty in the eye of the beholder

Phil Mussell — 14/02/2007 11:22:00

It has aways been assumed that Cleopatra - the Egyptian Queen who captured the heart of Mark Antony and led to a bitter rift in the Roman Empire was a stunning beauty - however a silver denarius that has gone on display in Newcastle would seem to indicate differently. The coin, which depicts Antony on the obverse, shows that whoever struck it though that the Queen was somewhat different to the image we may have of her today. Full story can be found in the April issue of COIN NEWS on sale March 28

Back issues

Phil Mussell — 13/02/2007 21:48:00

Did you know we sell back issue of COIN NEWS or MEDAL NEWS stretching right back to 1998 - and all from this website!!

You can view every single back issue simply by clicking on it in the back issue section - that will bring up the full contents page to allow you to choose magazines that you're interested in.

Want a quicker way to find an article of interest? Well the COIN YEARBOOK contains an index to the past year's magazines and the MEDAL YEARBOOK contains a complete index to ALL articles ever written in that magazine - and it's very comprehensive!

BANKNOTES OF THE WORLD - ANY MINUTE NOW!!

Phil Mussell — 12/02/2007

The new Standard Catalogue of World Banknotes (General issues) is imminent!

This new edition is a must for all serious banknote collectors with ALL BANKNOTES up until 1960 LISTED AND PRICED.

It once again retails at just �50 plus �8 p&p and will available from the COIN NEWS - BOOKS section of this website within the week - watch this space!!

Bonhams follow Spink

Phil Mussell — 08/02/2007 10:49:00

After moves by Spink last week to increase their buyer's premium on all lots up to �2,000 Bonhams have announced that they are to follow suit with an increase in their premium to 20% on all lots up to �250,000 (in effect most coin and all banknote and medal lots). The company's premium is currently at 20% for most of their sales but the coin and medal department had, until now, been exempt. Whether the other big houses follow suit remains to be seen

Spink to raise premium

Phil Mussell — 31/01/2007 16:30:00

In a bold move Spink are to raise their Buyer�s Premium from a flat 15% to 20% on the first �2000 pounds of the hammer price and 15% on the remaining balance. The new rates will take effect from March 15th 2007.

Olivier Stocker, CEO of Spink comments �This marginal increase in the Buyer�s Premium will allow Spink to continue to enhance many services we provide for clients and open doors to several new projects Spink wish to take on in 2007 to benefit the expanding marketplace,�

Whether buyers, and indeed sellers, see it like that remains to be seen!

Author of the Year

Phil Mussell — 26/01/2007 10:06:00

It's time once again to vote for your favourite Coin News or Medal News author of 2006 - we're asking for three choices (in the event of a tie) but even if you just send in one vote that's better than nothing!

Who inspired you in 2006? Which was your favourite article?

Let us know either by filling in the form in the magazine or by emailing us at info@tokenpublishing.com

All entries must be in by March 31 2007 please!

Elandslaagte - update available

Phil Mussell — 24/01/2007 12:06:00

For all of you who have purchased David Biggins' excellent book on the Battle of Elandslaagte there is now a pdf update available on CD Rom. It' s free so you can pick it up from us at any medal fair we attend or you can get it from our on-line shop - unfortunately we do have to charge postage and handling if we send it out to you.!

MEDAL YEARBOOK - Hardcover version

Phil Mussell — 22/01/2007 14:54:00

We always only print a limited run of the special hardbound MEDAL YEARBOOK and this year was no different - we printed 500, 300 had gone within a fortnight and 180 more went just before Christmas. We've got 20 left, that's it - no more will be printed. Better order your copy today....

....but don't worry if you miss out there's always the softbound version of course!

New Year Sale

Phil Mussell — 22/01/2007 14:50:00

Have a look at our website shop and you'll see there are quite a few bargains to be had - check it out today for a host of post free offers!

Just click on books under the "shop" title on the left hand side of this page and you'll go straight there!

Britannia time...? Not quite!

Phil Mussell — 22/01/2007 14:39:00

Don't forget that the Britannia Medal fair has had a bit of a shake up this year and the dates have changed. Whilst the show is normally held on one of the last two Sundays in January this year the first one is being held a month later - on February 25. So don't turn up at the Victory Services club this week hoping to bag some bargains!

London Coin Fair

Phil Mussell — 22/01/2007

The Token team will be "up in town" again soon to attend the next London Coin Fair at the Bloomsbury Holiday Inn (off Coram Street) on Saturday February 10

We will, of course, have stocks of Coin News as well as our Yearbooks, the Krause and Pick catalogues and a host of other titles for the numismatist.

See you there

Canadian delights

Phil Mussell — 10/01/2007 15:11:00

Jeffrey Hoare Auctions, Inc. of London, Ontario has released its latest auction catalogue in text form on its website at http://www.jeffreyhoare.on.ca

Highlights of the sale include a number of early Naval General Service Medals along with a selection of Victorian Campaign medals.

The sale takes place on 27/28 January 2007.

Contact Wendy Hoare vi ateh website for additional details.

York time soon

Phil Mussell — 02/01/2007 11:26:00

The first fair of the new Year (for the Token Team at least) will be the bi-annual Coin and Medal fair at the Knavesmire stand of York Racecourse, this year being held over Friday and Saturday January 18-19.

The York fair is always extremely popular and we look forward to seeing all of our regulars - and some new faces - up there once again!

Happy New Year

Phil Mussell — 02/01/2007 11:25:00

We'd like to wish all of our readers, advertisers and customers a very happy and Prosperous 2007!

Holiday Opening times

Phil Mussell — 21/12/2006

One of the beauties of the World Wide Web is that it never closes - so you can shop til you drop 24 hours a day 365 days a year - however us mere humans need a break occasionally and as such we won't be around too much over the holiday season to fulfill your orders! We will be in the office but will be working on the magazines and new books rather than on answering the 'phones and despatch and the full team will not be back until Janaury 2, after that date we will work like the clappers to make sure everything is sent out as swiftly as normal.

Operational Honours December 2006

Phil Mussell — 15/12/2006 09:27:00

The full list of honours is as follows:

AFGHANISTAN

The Victoria Cross (VC)

Corporal Bryan James BUDD The Parachute Regiment (killed in action)

The George Cross (GC)

Corporal Mark William WRIGHT The Parachute Regiment (killed in action)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NORTHERN IRELAND

Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

Captain Michael John CANHAM Corps of Royal Engineers
Major David Hugh JACKSON The Royal Irish Regiment

Queen's Commendation for Bravery (QCB)

Colour Sergeant Paul ASHTON Royal Marines
Warrant Officer Class 2 Robert Leonard WALKER The Royal Logistic Corps

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Warrant Officer Class 2 Christopher Robert MILLINGTON The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers
Squadron Leader Derek Clive WATSON Royal Air Force

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FORMER YUGOSLAVIA

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Mr Nicholas WILLIAMS OBE Ministry of Defence

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

AFGHANISTAN

Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)

Brigadier Edward Adam BUTLER DSO MBE Late The Royal Green Jackets

Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Friedrich Patrick FELTON MBE Army Air Corps
Colonel Martin Nicholas NADIN Late Royal Army Medical Corps

Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

Lieutenant Colonel Steven Peter Walter BOYD Corps of Royal Engineers
Major Sean Michael BURKE The Royal Irish Regiment
Captain Marcus James DICKS The Royal Rifle Volunteers Territorial Army
Major David James EASTMAN Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
Major Huw Spencer WILLIAMS The Parachute Regiment

The Distinguished Service Order (DSO)

Major Paul Alan BLAIR The Parachute Regiment
Lieutenant Colonel Stuart John Craig TOOTAL OBE The Parachute Regiment

The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross (CGC)

Lieutenant Hugo James Edward FARMER The Parachute Regiment
Acting Captain Timothy Holden ILLINGWORTH The Light Infantry
Lance Corporal of Horse Andrew Geoffrey RADFORD The Life Guards

The Military Cross (MC)

Captain Douglas Ricardo BEATTIE The Royal Irish Regiment
Second Lieutenant Oliver DALE The Parachute Regiment
Corporal of Horse Michael John FLYNN CGC The Blues and Royals
Staff Corporal Shaun Keith FRY Life Guards
Corporal Stuart James GILES The Parachute Regiment
Lance Corporal Karl Wayne JACKSON The Parachute Regiment
Private Peter McKINLEY The Parachute Regiment
Major Giles Matthew TIMMS The Parachute Regiment
Captain Patrick James WILLIAMS The Blues and Royals
Private Mark James WILSON The Parachute Regiment
Flight Lieutenant Matthew Kenneth CARTER Royal Air Force

The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Major Mark Christopher HAMMOND Royal Marines
Flying Officer Christopher Michael HASLAR Royal Air Force
Squadron Leader John Finbar MONAHAN Royal Air Force
Flight Lieutenant Craig Thomas WILSON Royal Air Force

The Queen's Gallantry Medal (QGM)

Lance Corporal Paul HARTLEY Royal Army Medical Corps
Corporal Stuart Henry PEARSON The Parachute Regiment

Royal Red Cross 2nd Class (ARRC)

Captain Catherine McWILLIAM Queen Alexandra's Royal Army Nursing Corps

Mention in Despatches (MiD)

Lieutenant Nichol James Emslie BENZIE Royal Navy
Captain Matthew Anthony William ARMSTRONG Royal Regiment of Artillery
Private Johnnie Chad BEVANS The Parachute Regiment
Warrant Officer Class 2 Michael John BOLTON The Parachute Regiment
Warrant Officer Class 2 Karl Terence BRENNAN Royal Regiment of Artillery
Captain Alexander John EIDA Royal Regiment of Artillery (killed in action)
Captain Mark Richard EISLER The Parachute Regiment
Corporal Stephen John FARLING The King's Royal Hussars
Lieutenant Thomas David FEHLEY The Parachute Regiment
Rifleman Ganesh GURUNG The Royal Gurkha Rifles
Warrant Officer Class 2 Trilochan GURUNG The Royal Gurkha Rifles
Corporal Benjamin Stephen HALL Royal Army Medical Corps
Private Stephen James HALTON The Parachute Regiment
Lieutenant Martin Joseph HEWITT The Parachute Regiment
Lieutenant Paul Ronald HOLLINGSHEAD The Royal Gurkha Rifles
Sergeant Daniel JARVIE The Parachute Regiment
Warrant Officer Class 2 Thomas Heron JOHNSTONE Army Air Corps
Corporal Kailash KHEBANG The Royal Gurkha Rifles
Sergeant Carl Frederick LANE The Parachute Regiment
Warrant Officer Class 2 Zachary Adam LEONG The Parachute Regiment
Captain Alexander James MACKENZIE The Parachute Regiment
Lance Corporal Luke Edward Patrick McCULLOCH The Royal Irish Regiment (killed in action)
Warrant Officer Class 1 Christopher Paul MULHALL Army Air Corps
Rifleman Nabin RAI The Royal Gurkha Rifles
Staff Sergeant James George RANKINE Corps of Royal Engineers
Warrant Officer Class 2 Andrew Kenneth SCHOFIELD The Parachute Regiment
Major Toby Patrick Oughtred TILL Coldstream Guards
Sergeant Daniel Cameron BAXTER Royal Air Force
Sergeant Graham Martin JONES Royal Air Force
Squadron Leader Michael John WOODS Royal Air Force

Queen's Commendation for Bravery (QCB)

Lance Bombardier Daniel Mark BYRNE Royal Regiment of Artillery
Warrant Officer Class 1 Andrew Steven GEE The Royal Logistic Corps
Corporal Nicholas James GRANT Royal Army Medical Corps
Warrant Officer Class 2 Andrew John STEDMAN The Royal Logistic Corps

Queen's Commendation for Bravery in the Air (QCBA)

Senior Airman Jason BROLINE United States Air Force
Staff Sergeant Cameron HYSTAD United States Air Force

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Colour Sergeant Stuart BELL The Parachute Regiment
Captain Nigel John BISHOP The Parachute Regiment
Brigadier Nicholas Roy DAVIES MBE MC Late The Parachute Regiment
Lance Corporal Adam Spencer FEAR Royal Corps of Signals
Lieutenant Colonel Martin Andrew FENN MBE Corps of Royal Engineers
Colonel Charles Peter Huntley KNAGGS OBE Late Irish Guards
Major Piers Guy Beresford STRUDWICK The Royal Regiment of Scotland
Wing Commander Richard Francis John CLIFFORD Royal Air Force

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

IRAQ

Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Lieutenant Colonel John Henry BOWRON DSO The Light Infantry
Lieutenant Colonel David Henry LABOUCHERE MBE The Queen's Royal Hussars

Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

Colour Sergeant Matthew Paul WOODS Royal Marines

The Distinguished Service Order (DSO)

Major Angus George Costeker FAIR The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards

The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross (CGC)

Corporal John COLLINS The Parachute Regiment
Colour Sergeant James Royce HARKESS The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment

The Military Cross (MC)

Lance Corporal Nicholas Alan Thomas COLEMAN The Devonshire and Dorset Light Infantry
Private Ryan John COPPING The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment
Captain Robert James BASSETT�CROSS Scots Guards
Major Richard Alexander HEAD The Light Infantry
Corporal Steven Phillip ISZARD The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment
Major Mark Andrew Peter NOONEY The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment
Private Michelle Suzanne Claire NORRIS Royal Army Medical Corps
Lance Sergeant Steven Eric ROSS Grenadier Guards

The George Medal (GM)

Corporal Martin Paul CAINES The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment
Staff Sergeant Gary John O'DONNELL The Royal Logistic Corps

The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Major William David CHESAREK United States Marine Corps

Royal Red Cross 2nd Class (ARRC)

Corporal Jennifer Anne DAW Princess Mary's Royal Air Force Nursing Service

Mention in Despatches (MiD)

Lance Corporal Philip BAINS The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment
Lance Corporal Lee Arron DAVIDSON The Royal Anglian Regiment
Corporal Oliver HARTSHORNE The Royal Anglian Regiment
Staff Sergeant Jonathan Nicholas LANE Army Air Corps
Lieutenant Kieron Joseph LYONS The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment
Private Joseph Jeffrey MARTIN The Royal Anglian Regiment
Sergeant Andre Paul Joseph PEPPER The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment
Lance Corporal Keith STEEN Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
Colour Sergeant David William John WEBB The Parachute Regiment
Lance Corporal Steven WELLS The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment
Sergeant Jamie WHITELEY The Royal Anglian Regiment
Captain Alisdair Doull WIGHAM The Queen's Royal Hussars
Flight Lieutenant Warren KEENAN Royal Air Force

Queen's Commendation for Bravery (QCB)

Bombardier Paul ELLISON Royal Regiment of Artillery

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Commodore Simon Thomas WILLIAMS OBE Royal Navy
Lieutenant Colonel Ashleigh Christian BOREHAM Royal Army Medical Corps
Lance Corporal Adam David Trayton BROWN Corps of Royal Engineers
Major Mark Alan DAVIES The Queen's Royal Lancers
Major Andrew Sean David HARRISON MBE The Parachute Regiment
Warrant Officer Class 2 Mark Kempson HOPKINS Royal Corps of Signals
Warrant Officer Class 2 Scott Alexander KELLY The Royal Logistic Corps
Lieutenant Colonel Desmond Patrick O�DRISCOLL The Royal Anglian Regiment
Major Colin James ORMISTON MBE Intelligence Corps
Private Lee James WALTERS The Royal Anglian Regiment
Group Captain Malcolm Andrew Brian BRECHT OBE ADC Royal Air Force
Squadron Leader Robin Edward James NORMAN Royal Air Force Reserve
Air Commodore Barry Mark NORTH OBE Royal Air Force
Mr Alan COOK Grade C2 Ministry of Defence
Mr Neil David ROBERTS Grade C2 Ministry of Defence

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NATIONAL OPERATIONS

Queen's Commendation for Bravery (QCB)

Captain Anthony Russell VINEY The Yorkshire Regiment

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Commander Michael Paul PATERSON Royal Navy

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NON�COMBATANT GALLANTRY

The Queen's Gallantry Medal (QGM)

Sergeant Kimble Patrick SLAUGHTER Corps of Royal Engineers

VC and GC for Afghanistan

Phil Mussell — 14/12/2006 09:33:00

The award of a posthumous VC to Cpl Bryan Budd of 3 para has now been confirmed. Pte Budd's VC was for operations against the Taliban in August of this Year when his selfless courage enabled seven other soldiers to escape from a Taleban firefight. Also confirmed is the award of the George Cross to Cpl Mark Wright who rescued comrades from a minefield in September 2006. There is also confirmation of what is thought to be the first award of an MC to a woman - Pte Michelle Norris.

The citation for Cpl Budd's VC can be found here

http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/HistoryAndHonour/CorporalBryanBuddAwardedTheVictoriaCross.htm

The citation for Pte Wright's GC is here:

http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/HistoryAndHonour/CorporalMarkWrightAwardedGeorgeCross.htm

Also of note is the award of the MC to Cpl of Horse Michael Flynn who already holds the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross

With the Compliments of the Season

Phil Mussell — 14/12/2006

The Token Publishing Team would like to extend warmest holiday wishes to all of our readers. Hope you all have a wonderful time and we'll see you in 2007!

The Office will be closed from Midday on December 21 and will re-open for business as usual on Tuesday January 2.

Yet another Krause Catalog!

Phil Mussell — 13/12/2006 16:56:00

Just when you thought you had them all Krause go and split their catalogs again - this time taking the 1901 - present and making it into two volumes 1901-2000 and 2001- present.

The new catalog is obviously smaller than its shelf mates and the price reflects that but even if it were twice as dear it's a "must-have" for all "modern" collectors - and we have it in stock ready to ship! Order yours from our on-line store today!!

British Battles and Medals - out now!

Phil Mussell — 13/12/2006 12:20:00

The long awaited 7th edition of British Battles and Medals (fondly known just as "Gordon's" after it's original author) is out now! It's huge with loads of new amendments - order your copy from our on-line store today

Stock now in - order yours today!

Coins for 2007

Phil Mussell — 24/11/2006 14:07:00

The Royal Mint has recently announced the designs for the 2007 series of circulating coins - they include a �2 celebrating the 300th anniversary of the act of Union between England and Scotland and another celebrating 200 years since the abolition of the slave trade in the UK. The 50p focuses on the 100th anniversary of the Scout Movement, the �5 crown celebrates Her Majesty the Queen and Prince Philip�s Diamond Wedding and the �1 features the Millennium Bridge in Gateshead - full details, and pictures, in COIN NEWS January.

Lost VC make over �100K

Phil Mussell — 23/11/2006 12:20:00

The "lost VC" of Private Mariner made �120,750 when it came up for auction at Spink on November 23. The VC, which lay forgotten in a drawer for years only came to light recently.

It had been speculated that the hammer price might not be as high as for some recent VCs as it wasn't certain whether Lord Ashcroft would now bid, having just published a book on his collection, however whether he bid or not there were others who did and �120,750 is a very respectable result!

George Best Notes

Phil Mussell — 23/11/2006 11:49:00

It seems that the demand for the Ulster Banks George Best notes (featured in the December issue of COIN NEWS) was so great that actually the bank has had to stop the offer early as they've run out!

APologies to all readers hoping to get their hands on one of these historic banknotes but obviously we have no way of controlling the stock levels of those who send us ppress releases.

DNW Sale venue

Phil Mussell — 21/11/2006 09:23:00

Apologies to DNW - we inadvertently gave the wrong address for their next sale in our "Auction Diary" (December 2006). We have listed their old venue address but in fact they now hold their sales at

The Richmond Suite (Lower Ground Floor)
The Washington Hotel
5 Curzon Street
LONDON W1

Upham's VC and Bar sold

Phil Mussell — 14/11/2006 11:23:00

It has been reported that one of only three VC and Bars ever awarded - that to Captain Charles Upham - has been bought from the family by the Imperial War Museum - but they won't come over to the UK but rather have been loaned to the New Zealand Army Museum for permanent display.

There has been much speculation regarding the fate of Upham's group after the family were reportedly offered $3.3million but were told by the New Zealand Government that the medals could not leave the country. The NZ Government then counter-offered with just $1million, angering the family. This solution, which sees the family gaining the full market value whilst keeping the Medals in New Zealand does seem to be a decent compromise, however the New Zealand Press Authority does report that a private Collector from Britain (I wonder who...?!) was prepared to pay up to $9million

Hardback Medal Yearbook

Phil Mussell — 13/11/2006 15:15:00

There are VERY few of these sought after books left in stock, place your order to-day or you'll be disappointed....!!

Coin Yearbook 2007

Phil Mussell — 13/11/2006 15:13:00

The latest issue of the COIN YEARBOOK is flying off the shelves - the Royal Mint have just placed their second order and bookshops can't seem to get enough. If you want one for Christmas you'd better get your request in soon, at this rate there won't be many left!

Scot of the Banknote

Phil Mussell — 31/10/2006 10:45:00

For the first time in the Bank Of England's History a Scot is to a appear on one of their banknotes! The economist Adam Smith is to feature on the new �20 in place of Edward Elgar, when it is launched next spring.

Come to London - it's Britannia time

Phil Mussell — 31/10/2006 10:27:00

The last Britannia show of the year is almost upon us - it takes place on November 26 at the familiar venue of the Victory Services Club just off Marble Arch - this month you can get in for free by using the ticket in MEDAL NEWS!

The show starts at 9.30am and of course we'll be there - we'll have MEDAL NEWS, binders for the magazine; the MEDAL YEARBOOK; Lord Ashcroft's New book; the Researcher's Guide from the National Archives; Honour the Armies and a whole host more - ideal for that Christmas present you've always promised yourself!

November Dates

Phil Mussell — 31/10/2006

The COIN NEWS team will, of course be at the LONDON COIN FAIR, held at the Holiday Inn Bloomsbury on November 4 where we'll have copies of the new COIN YEARBOOK 2007 hot off the press as well as the latest Krause titles and copies of your favourite Coin Magazine!

Calling young collectors?

Phil Mussell — 17/10/2006 11:46:00

Do you want �150 to spend? then enter our competition today - all you have to do is let us know "If you won first prize (�150) what coins (or banknotes/tokens etc) would you buy - and why?"

The closing date is January 31 2007 and we'll award the prizes based on the entries that we think are the most original and entertaining!

Email phil@tokenpublishing.com for more details!

VCs for Afghanistan?

Phil Mussell — 17/10/2006 11:41:00

There is much media speculation at the moment regarding possible awards of the Victoria Cross to soldiers currently serving in Afghanistan. At this stage we have nothing definite but will, of course keep you informed!

GC Lecture at the RLC Museum

Phil Mussell — 17/10/2006 11:34:00

With much talk of VCs in the news at the moment the "civilian" award of the George Cross is easily overlooked - a state of affairs that the Royal Logistic Corps hope to rectify with a lecture being given on November 23 at the Princess Royal Barracks, Deepcut, Surrey.

The GC is not of course a civilian award at all but is awarded to anyone, civilian or service personnel whose bravery is away from the heat of battle - the most recent award was to Captain Peter Norton of the RLC for diffusing a bomb in Iraq.

The lecture, given by historian John Frayn Turner will commence at 8pm (refreshments served from 7.30pm). Where lecturers have written books, as in this case, there is usually a chance to buy them and have them signed. Standard tickets cost �6, �5 for groups of 4 or more and �3 for Friends of The RLC Museum. For details contact Museum Lectures, The RLC Museum, Princess Royal Barracks, Deepcut, CAMBERLEY GU16 6RW

�2 million Medal Sale at DNW

Phil Mussell — 17/10/2006

The recent OMRS sale of Medals Orders and Decorations at Dix Noonan Webb on September 22 smashed their previous records and topped �2,000,000 for the first time.

The sale included teh stunning Ron Penhall collection - see MEDAL NEWS November for a Market Scene Report

Coin Yearbook 2007

Phil Mussell — 06/10/2006 17:23:00

The BRAND NEW COIN YEARBOOK 2007 - once again in FULL COLOUR THROUGHOUT- is launched at Coinex on September 30.

This best selling coin price guide is still just �9.95 - that's the 8th year running we've kept the price the same!

Conspicuous Gallantry Cross for the RIR

Phil Mussell — 06/10/2006 13:06:00

In a ceremony in Belfast on Friday October 6 Her Majesty the queen presented the Royal Irish Regiment with the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross in recognition of its service over the years. The three home service battalions of the Regiment are to disband in July next year.

Chatham book and Medal fair

Phil Mussell — 06/10/2006 12:53:00

Don't miss the special medal event at the regular book fair at the Royal Engineers Museum, Chatham, Kent on Sunday October 15.

The Military, Aviation and Naval book fairs, run by Tim Harper have proved very popular and this one, incorporating medal dealers as well as specialist booksellers looks set to be another success.

Doors open at 10.00am until 3.30pm and we'll be there - come along and say hello!

IBNS - this weekend!!

Phil Mussell — 26/09/2006 10:36:00

Are you coming to the International Bank Note Society Congress on Saturday or Sunday? Thsi year it's at the new venue of teh Hotel Russell on teh corner of Southampton Row/Russell Square in West London (Just up from Spink and not too far from the TUC centre) we'll be there on Saturday and hope you'll come and say hello.

Young Collectors competition

Phil Mussell — 19/09/2006 12:24:00

Look out for October's COIN NEWS (On sale September 26) - it features the chance for all under 18s to win some cold hard cash! There's �400 up for grabs in this exciting new competition - now's the chance to encourage your son or daughter on the road to collecting!

VC Special

Phil Mussell — 19/09/2006 12:23:00

look out for the next MEDAL NEWS (available on October 1) it's a special Victoria Cross anniversary special and contains some very important news on the biggest collection of VCs ever seen!

Operational Honours September 2006

Phil Mussell — 08/09/2006 10:17:00

A total of 64 members of the Armed Forces have received honours and awards for services on operations in Iraq, Northern Ireland, Afghanistan, former Yugoslavia, and other operations for the period 1 October 2005 to 31 March 2006.

Additionally there are six awards in recognition of non-combatant gallantry.

IRAQ

Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Captain Paul Anthony McALPINE Royal Navy
Colonel Benjamin Peter EDWARDS Late The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards
Lieutenant Colonel Iain Graham HARRISON MBE Royal Regiment of Artillery

Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

Lieutenant Commander Richard Michael ALLAN Royal Naval Reserve
Major Ronnie Liam COUTTS The Royal Regiment of Scotland
Major Simon James Peter GILDERSON The Royal Gurkha Rifles
Major Rupert Stuart Michael THORNELOE Welsh Guards

Military Cross (MC)

Corporal Trevor Raywood COULT The Royal Irish Regiment
Sergeant James Eric NEWELL The Parachute Regiment

George Medal (GM)

Captain Kevin Michael David IVISON The Royal Logistic Corps
Fusilier Daniel James SMITH The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers

The Queen's Gallantry Medal (QGM)

Staff Sergeant Chris James HEWETT The Royal Logistic Corps

Mention in Despatches (MiD)

Lieutenant Edward Robert Samuel DANNATT Grenadier Guards
Sergeant Mark Richard DENSLOW Corps of Royal Engineers
Staff Sergeant Richard Anthony EDWARDS Royal Corps of Signals
Lieutenant Simon David FORD The Royal Regiment of Scotland
Private Jonathan Charles HILL The London Regiment, Territorial Army
Lance Corporal Adam Charles IRELAND The Parachute Regiment
Private Luke Nathan MEYERS The Parachute Regiment
Colour Sergeant Simon John O�BRIEN The Parachute Regiment
Flight Sergeant Samuel Francis MINCHER Royal Air Force

Queen's Commendation for Bravery (QCB)

Sergeant David Terence BOISSEL Royal Regiment of Artillery

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Lieutenant Stuart James SOMERVILLE Royal Navy
Colonel Nicholas Guy BAVEYSTOCK Late Corps of Royal Engineers
Captain Mark Robert GENKO The Royal Logistic Corps
Captain Richard John HOLMES The Parachute Regiment (killed in action)
Lieutenant Colonel James Michael Rooke HOPKINSON OBE The Royal Regiment of Scotland
Brigadier Patrick Claude MARRIOTT CBE Late The Queen�s Royal Lancers
Lieutenant Colonel Michael Aidan John McGOVERN The Royal Irish Regiment
Major Jonathon Charles MOSS The Queen�s Own Yeomanry, Territorial Army
Warrant Officer Class 2 James Edwin ROBERTS The Yorkshire Regiment
Warrant Officer Class 2 Jackson Anthony WHITE Royal Corps of Signals
Squadron Leader Mark Jonathan JACKLIN Royal Air Force
Mr Damian Peter Christian JOHNSON Civil Servant

NORTHERN IRELAND

Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)

Major Colin James ORMISTON Intelligence Corps
Warrant Officer Class 2 Arthur William REA The Royal Irish Regiment
Captain Simon John WALTON-PRINCE MC The Parachute Regiment

Queen's Commendation for Bravery (QCB)

Lance Corporal Keith CHAPLIN Corps of Royal Engineers
Sergeant Ian James SMITH Corps of Royal Engineers
Corporal Oliver William Thomas SMITH The Parachute Regiment

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Warrant Officer 2nd Class Alan Peter DRAKE Royal Marines
Warrant Officer Class 1 David Ian BRADBURY The Parachute Regiment
Sergeant Peter James BROPHY Intelligence Corps
Warrant Officer Class 2 Neil Murdoch DAVIS The Royal Regiment of Scotland
Staff Sergeant Claire DICKSON Intelligence Corps
Colonel John Patrick Simon DONNELLY OBE Late The Cheshire Regiment
Colonel Hemprakash GOSHAI MBE Late Royal Army Medical Corps
Major Thomas George VALLINGS The Yorkshire Regiment
Chief Technician Ian Andrew GILL Royal Air Force

AFGHANISTAN

Distinguished Service Order (DSO)

Wing Commander Martin Elliot SAMPSON Royal Air Force

Queen's Commendation for Bravery (QCB)

Corporal Steven Alexander HOUSTON The Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Light Infantry

Queen's Commendation for Bravery in the Air (QCBA)

Squadron Leader Gerald Rodney CHARLTON Royal Air Force
Flight Lieutenant Matthew John DODDS Royal Air Force

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Flight Lieutenant Paul Grant NEWMAN MBE Royal Air Force

FORMER YUGOSLAVIA

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Warrant Officer Class 2 Daphne BRETT Royal Corps of Signals
Captain Shaun William Mark CHANDLER The Royal Gurkha Rifles
Lance Corporal Buddhibahadur GURUNG The Royal Gurkha Rifles

CONGO

Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Colonel Roderick Pole WINSER Late The Royal Green Jackets

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Gilbert Carew HATHERLEY Grenadier Guards

NATIONAL OPERATIONS

Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Commander Mark Richard TITCOMB Royal Navy

The Queen's Gallantry Medal (QGM)

Sergeant Adrian Brian JONES Royal Marines

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service (QCVS)

Commander Giles William Helsdon HATCH Royal Navy
Sergeant David Anthony VICKERS The Royal Logistic Corps
Flight Lieutenant Sohail Baqa KHAN Royal Air Force (JHFQ deployed to Pakistan on Op MATURIN as J3 Ops)

NON-COMBATANT GALLANTRY

The Queen's Gallantry Medal (QGM)

Leading Seaman (Diver) Gary John HALL
Lieutenant Jason Paul WHITE Royal Navy

Queen's Commendation for Bravery (QCB)

Marine Engineering Mechanic 1st Class Lee James BROCKLESBY
Petty Officer Marine Engineering Mechanic (Mechanical) Paul Mark WYNNE

Queen's Commendation for Bravery in the Air (QCBA)

Flight Lieutenant Norman Edward THREAPLETON Royal Air Force
Flight Lieutenant Richard Mark WILSON Royal Air Force

Aldershot

Phil Mussell — 30/08/2006 22:41:00

Don't forget Mark Carter's Aldershot show this Sunday at the Princes Hall in the town - we won't be there this week (although we will be attending on November 5) but that doesn't mean you shouldn't pop along!

The preview is at 9.30am - don't be late!

Wakefield

Phil Mussell — 30/08/2006 22:38:00

Just to remind everyone that this sunday 3rd of September is the normal monthly medal fair at the Memorial Hall, Leeds Road Outwood near Wakefield. close to all main motorways. 7.30am-1pm

Dealers confirmed as attending at the moment are,

A.JUKES (THE MEDAL CENTRE)
B.CHARMAN (PREMIER EMPORER)
P.SHAW
D.HAILS
M.CROFTS (CROFTS COLLECTABLES)
M.SHAW
A.FRYER
B.GOLDING (BADGE REPAIRS)
M.FRYER (WATERLOO MEDALS)
D.HILTON (HILTON MEDALS)
T.SHELTON (THE MEDAL MAN)
M.WATSON (MILTARY MART)
G.BALDWIN (CULTMAN?)
T.GRIMSHAW
N.HORNSBY
B.BRUNTLETT (BADGES)
T.GREAVES
B.FRIER
C DIXON (DIXONS MEDALS)
N.THOMPSON (NJT MEDALS)
D.HUMPHRIES
I.LAIDLER
D.LISTER

The Token team won't be there this time as we're waiting for the publication of the MEDAL YEARBOOK 2007 but we hope to attend soon!

John Fletcher-Wells

Phil Mussell — 21/08/2006 14:56:00

It is with great sadness that we learn of the death last weekend of John Fletcher-Wells. John, along with his wife Daphne, was a familiar face at the medal shows up and down the country having been a coin and medal dealer for many years. Anyone who has visited a Mark Carter show recently will undoubtedly have perused John's stock at some time or another! A full obituary will appear in MEDAL NEWS in due course, in the meantime our thoughts and sympathy are with Daphne and her family.

OMSA Success

Phil Mussell — 15/08/2006 11:19:00

Thank you once again to all the OMSA members who made this year's convention In Phoenix, Arizona such a pleasure to attend. Once again we had a very successful show, and managed to get in a bit of holiday too - all in all a very enjoyable time. See you all in Houston next year!

COINEX

Phil Mussell — 15/08/2006

The BNTA's flagship coin show this year takes place at Earl's Court on September 29-30. The venue is an excellent one with good parking facilities and excellent public transport links.

See COIN NEWS for further details and a FREE entry ticket for the Saturday!!

New titles from Krause

Phil Mussell — 25/07/2006 10:38:00

The 2006 editions of 20th Century World Coins and Modern issues Paper money are now available direct from Token Publishing Ltd - order your copies today!!

MEDAL YEARBOOK 2007

Phil Mussell — 25/07/2006

The 2007 Edition of the MEDAL YEARBOOK will be launched at the OMRS Convention, New Connaught Rooms, London on September 23

Once again fully updated this book is an absolute essential for any medal collector.

All the prices in this volatile market have been checked and brought up to date and all new medals that have been issued in the last year have been included.

ALL MEDALS ARE AGAIN ILLUSTRATED IN FULL COLOUR!!!!

And New for 2007 - the main foreign medals found in British groups!!

The softback book once again retails at �19.95 with the very limited edition hardback retailing at �24.95

See the Medal Books pages of this site to order your copy today

New VC Record

Phil Mussell — 24/07/2006 12:55:00

Breaking News - we've just learned that the Victoria Cross group awarded to Captain Alfred John Shout has sold in Sydney for an astounding AU$1,214,500 - nearly �500,000!!

The actual hammer price was AU$1million but the buyer's premium was a whopping 21.45% which actually pushed the price up by an extra �87,000!!!!

It is reported that the group was bought by an Australian and will be presented to teh Australian War Memorial

Are you coming to York?

Phil Mussell — 19/07/2006 10:03:00

Yes I know it's hot, know it's almost unbearable - but if you're going to wilt in the heat you might as well do it in the surroundings of a beautiful city!

And of course whilst you're there you might as well visit the Coin Fair at the Knavesmire Stand of York Racecourse- there are over 50 dealers with just about everything you could imagine on offer (well everything numismatic).

The fair is on for two days - from 11.00am on Friday and from 10.00am on Saturday. We're braving the heat to come up from Devon (well John and Carol are, Phil's otherwise engaged again) so we hope to see you there!

New Pick

Phil Mussell — 18/07/2006 16:28:00

The New Standard Catalogue of World Paper Money (Volume III - modern issues) is available now - order your copy today from this website!

FAQs

Phil Mussell — 11/07/2006

Need to know where to go to get a medal replaced? What about how much your medals are worth? Check out our FAQs - all the answers are there!

FAQs

Phil Mussell — 11/07/2006

Need to know about the �2 with the necklace? What about the value of that 1933 penny (some hope!) - check out our FAQs - you'll find the answers there!

OMSA 2006 - to the desert once more

Phil Mussell — 10/07/2006

It's not long now before this year's Orders and Medals Society of America annual convention in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona

Since we first attended OMSA in 1998 (Chicago) we have become devotees and would hate to miss one, although we sell out every year the event isn't just about making sales but rather it is far more about making friends (if you'll excuse the cliche).

Because the US is so vast this convention is the one time in the year when all the American dealers and collectors can get together and it really is an enjoyable event. Many will travel for thousands of miles just to be there even - even to the depths of the baking desert in August!

One or two (and they know who they are) will have driven the continent (via many other shows) just to attend.

For more information on the convention which takes place over the weekend 3-6 August (with Saturday 5 being the "public" day) visit http/:www.omsa.org

2007 Coins announced

Phil Mussell — 03/07/2006 16:41:00

The Treasury recently announced the plans for the UK's Circulating coins in 2007 - it seems that we are to have a �2 coin to mark the 300th anniversary of the act of Union between England and Scotland; a �5 Crown to celebrate the Diamond Wedding Anniversary of Her Majesty the Queen and Prince Philip; a �2 coin to mark 200 years since the abolition of the slave trade and a 50pence to commemorate the centenary of the Scout movement. More details, designs etc as we get them!

2008 will, of course, see the release of teh redesigned coinage - designs for which are currently being considered

Joint Issue

Phil Mussell — 02/07/2006

Don't forget that the last issue of MEDAL NEWS - the June/July issue - covered two months, so there is no MEDAL NEWS in July. The next issue - August - will be available in Newsagents by the beginning of August, subscribers should have theirs a few days before that!

York Time again....

Phil Mussell — 20/06/2006

Yes - it's nearly that time of year again, impossible though it seems it won't be long before the York Fair is upon us; this ever popular event continues to go from strength to strength and the Summer show is always good fun to attend - York is beautiful at any time of the Year, in July especially so.

The Summer 2006 York Coin and Medal Fair will take place on Friday July 21 and Saturday July 22 - see you there!!

FREE MAGAZINES!

Phil Mussell — 10/06/2006

Don't forget that if you are not familiar with either COIN NEWS or MEDAL NEWS you can order a free sample copy today. COIN NEWS is available from all good newsagents on the last Wednesday of the month (and to subscribers 5 days earlier) whilst MEDAL NEWS is available from larger newsagents on the last day of the month with subscribers getting their copy a week earlier. Overseas airmail subscribers should get their magazines on the same day that it is available in the shops in the UK, those who subscribe via surface mail will have to wait a little longer!

POST FREE IN JUNE

Phil Mussell — 31/05/2006

HURRY HURRY HURRY - ALL MEDAL BOOKS POST FREE FOR JUNE 2006!!

For one month only all of our medal books are post free within the UK - and the overseas postal rates have been adjusted downwards too (basically the UK price has been knocked off the overseas cost!!)

There's never been a better time to buy a Token Title

The Royal Mint at COINEX

Phil Mussell — 31/05/2006

It seems that the Royal Mint's "from the archives" feature (you know the bit in COIN NEWS where Dr Kevin Clancy the Museum Curator shows us some gem from the collection) has proved so popular that the Mint are thinking about exhibiting some of the pieces featured at the next COINEX (September29-30) - watch this space for details!!

Your top ten?

Phil Mussell — 30/05/2006

What books should every Medal Collector have in his or her library? Obviously the MEDAL YEARBOOK is top of the list (!!) but what other weighty tomes deserve a place alongside it?

We're currently looking at what books we can offer our readers and would like to hear from anyone who thinks that they have a book on their shelves that no collector should be without.

email phil@tokenpublishing.com with your suggestions!!

Dixon's new website

Phil Mussell — 27/05/2006

Check out CJ & AJ Dixon's new website - very impressive! The site can be accessed from our "Dealer Directory" section!! (just over there<------ on the left under "medals"! Got it? excellent!)

FULL COLOUR!!

Phil Mussell — 26/05/2006

In case you don't buy COIN NEWS or MEDAL NEWS regularly (and if not why not!!) you might not have noticed that both magazines are now in FULL COLOUR throughout - maybe it's time you had a look at a copy again....

Pick one up at all larger newsagents or call 01404 44166 for a sample!!

Going digital

Phil Mussell — 26/05/2006

We're thinking about going digital - in the first instance we're considering producing a digital edition of the magazine that would be emailed free to all airmail subscribers so they'd get their edition the same day as UK subscribers did - with the paper issue following on a few days later. Ideal for news, time sensitive adverts, lists etc.

It's only in the planning stage at this point but we'd like opinions - so call us on 01404 46972 or email phil@tokenpublishing.com and let us know what you think!

COIN YEARBOOK 2006

Phil Mussell — 26/05/2006

The COIN YEARBOOK has proved to be a best seller time and time again - and with the new-look FULL COLOUR for this year it's proving more popular than ever. There are only a few copies left so be sure to order yours TODAY!!

Where shall we go?

Phil Mussell — 25/05/2006

We attend coin fairs up and down the country - London, Leeds, York, Newcastle - but is there one we don't attend but should? Do you have a local fair you think we should attend?

We're happy to visit as many shows as we can (within reason - we're based down in Devon so a fair in Inverness that opens at 10.00am and is all over by 12.30pm isn't going to be the best use of our time....!!) so if you'd like us to come to yours let us know!

(The name and number of the organiser would be useful too...!!)

Medal News on the move - but where next?

Phil Mussell — 25/05/2006

We attend medal fairs up and down the country - London, Bristol, Stratford, Aldershot - but is there one we don't attend but should?

Do you have a local fair you think we should come along to?

We're happy to visit as many shows as we can (within reason - we're based down in Devon so a fair in Belfast that is all over by 1.00pm isn't necessarily going to work for us!) so if you'd like us to come to yours let us know!

(The name and number of the organiser would be useful too...!!)

Insure your collection

Phil Mussell — 25/05/2006

The spiralling prices seen recently mean that many of us now own collections worth far more than we may think, collections that might well push the price of our household insurance through the roof - that's if our regular insurer will even look at covering us!

Insurance has been a problem for collectors for years with many companies insisting on rigorous controls and safeguards and then still charging the earth even when they're met!

If you're having trouble with your insurance then contact us - we might just be able to help! Email info@tokenpublishing.com for details.

What would you like to see....?

Phil Mussell — 25/05/2006

We are currently updating our stock lists and wondered what you'd like us to stock? Accessories? More books? Let us know and we'll do our best!

Britannia time again

Phil Mussell — 15/05/2006

Unbelievably the Britannia medal fair has rolled around again! We'll be there this Sunday (May 21) and are sure to welcome many regulars and, we hope, new faces too.

This is the last Britannia before November so if you're after one of our new titles - "Honour the Armies" and "Afloat and Ashore" - now's your chance!

OMRS North

Phil Mussell — 05/05/2006

Don't forget the bi-annual ONRS North takes place on May 13-14 at the Holiday Inn, Runcorn, Cheshire. (Just off Junction 12 of the M56). This event has proved extremely popular on the last two occasions and the organisers have high hopes this year.

Saturday sees a series of lectures and the competitive exhibition with a formal dinner in the evening - the guest speaker this year is Lt. Colonel Mike Glover of the Royal Lancashire Fusiliers Regimental Museum. On Sunday there will be a full bourse with a numerous dealers - and the MEDAL NEWS team - in attendance.

For more details contact Brian Prescott on jade.publishing@virgin.net

Aldershot and Yate

Phil Mussell — 08/04/2006

The next Yate show we attending is May 7 but before that we'll be at Aldershot on St George's Day Aptil 23 (also Shakespeare's Birthday and, coincidentally, the day he died!).

We're not going to be at Bromley on April 30 (bank Holiday plans I'm afraid) so all those based in the South EAst who are after a copy of one of our new titles better hotfoot it to Aldershot!

Medal Yearbook 2007

Phil Mussell — 08/04/2006

The 2007 Edition of the MEDAL YEARBOOK will be launched at the OMRS Convention, New Connaught Rooms, London in September

We are now starting work on the new edition of the MEDAL YEARBOOK and will, once again, be doing all we can to make it the best it can be - so if anyone has any errors or omissions (or even advice) that they'd like to let us know about we'd be delighted to hear from you.

Please email phil@tokenpublishing.com as soon as you can!

Thanks!!

BACK IN STOCK

Phil Mussell — 03/04/2006

At last World Notgeld 1914-47 is back in stock - order your copy today!!