A large 1794 Royal Navy gold medal will highlight an auction at Bonhams London on March 23.
It was presented to Admiral Lord Graves for his part in the Battles of the Glorious First of June that same year and is expected to sell for around £140,000-160,000 ($194,996-222,852).
 Lord Graves was promoted to admiral after the Battle of the Glorious First of June in 1794 |
It's one of seven large gold medals awarded to officers who took part in this particular engagement. A total of 15 small medals were also given out.
Graves was a British naval officer who was second in command at the Battle of the Glorious First of June in 1794, during the French Revloutionary Wars (1792-1802).
Alongside Admiral Earl Howe, Graves dealt the French a strong tactical defeat. He was promoted to admiral in recognition of his actions.
The piece is accompanied by a large presentation cup engraved with the words: "A Tribute of Respect from his Country to ADMIRAL LORD GRAVES, for his gallant Conduct in His MAJESTY'S SHIP The Royal Sovereign on the ever memorable 1st of JUNE 1794. when the French Fleet was defeated by the British Fleet under the Command OF ADMIRAL EARL HOWE. John Julius Angerstein Chairman"
Seven hardbound logs documenting Graves' time in the navy are also included.
Also on offer is a Royal Geographical Society of London Patron's medal, which was awarded to Edward Whymper in 1892.
Whymper was a pioneering mountaineer and explorer who made the first succesful ascent of the Matterhorn.
This medal is expected to sell for around £10,000-15,000 ($13,925-20,887).
Check out our medal and militaria selection here.
