A rare opportunity to own world war one gallantry medals from two British brothers, including a Military Cross, presents itself on September 7.
The single lot consists of medals awarded to Newcastle-under-Lyme brothers Reginald and Tom Tivey.
 Both brothers suffered horrific injuries during the Great War |
Reginald's Military Cross is the star attraction. Established in 1914, such medals have achieved more than £250 in the past, and mark "an act or acts of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy on land". Before 1993 they could only be awarded to officers.
The collection also features Reginald's British War Medal for service in the first world war, Allied Victory Medal and a 1914/15 star, in addition to Tom's Military Medal - equivalent to a Military Cross for non officers - British War Medal and Allied Victory Medal.
Notable by its absence is Tom's Military Cross, which he returned in protest. Medical reports, photographs, newspaper clippings and Reginald's pistol holder, belt and ID bracelet are also included.
Valued at £2,200 by the UK auction house, we expect the lot to achieve significantly more, due to the fascinating story of the two brothers.
Prior to the outbreak of war Reginald hunted elephants in Africa, while Tom was a fur trapper in Canada. Both promptly enlisted in the British army at the commencement of the war in 1914.
The two brothers suffered horribly, Reginald receiving a severe shrapnel wound to his leg, while Tom's lung was permanently damaged following a mustard gas attack. Both survived the war, and went on to marry a pair of sisters, who were the daughters of famed porcelain decorator Alboin Birks.
Lead auctioneer, Ben Gamble, commented: "The lot includes not only the medals but a lot of ephemera that relates to this history which, along with its links to one of Staffordshire potteries' most famous sons, is likely to make it even more interesting to collectors."
These are exciting times for medal collectors, with values soaring of late. View our strong selection of militaria here.
The superb medal collection of John "Cat's Eyes" Cunningham will feature at the Bentley Priory Battle of Britain Trust Appeal Charity Auction in London tomorrow.
A world war one Victoria Cross and Bar, awarded to the only world war one combatant to receive two Victoria Crosses, sold for £1.5m in 2009 - a record for a military medal.
