Mike McLellan

Hello Mark. It’s a beautiful piece, but let me add a word of caution. Short of a forensic analysis of the paint, it’s not possible to positively declare a painted truncheon “authentic” or even less than authentic. Most of us have been deceived at one time or another, and it’s often quite embarrassing. Whether a particular piece has been altered, re-painted, touched up, or otherwise enhanced is always food for thought. Even if a truncheon has been “doctored”, it still might be legitimate if the changes were made by the issuing agency or the user/owner. In short, it’s anyone’s guess. Again, it’s a beautiful piece and created by a very skillful artisan. Mike.

What a beautiful old piece! I have to wonder, though, why anyone would cut that notch in such a conspicuous place. Even if it were for carbon dating or other molecular testing, a more discreet chunk of material could be had. The wooden part is as well preserved as could be expected, and together, they make an exciting bit of history, with or without the “story”. Mike

Hello and welcome to the forum. Your truncheons do indeed represent a puzzle. The one on top is fashioned in the style of early 20th century Hiatt truncheons, while the lower one is not as easily recognizable. Both appear too short to be issued to regular coppers, at least until recently, and both have been either newly manufactured or refinished by the same person and, apparently, at the same time. An old truncheon, even if it spent the last 200 years in somenody’s underwear drawer, would show at least some wear on the ends. I may be guessing beyond my expertise level, but I think that the stamps do not indicate any official connection. If nothing else, they are both attractive pieces, but of limited historical significance. Now, with a bit of luck, one of the real experts will have some better news for you. Mike

Thanks for the additional insight. And thanks also to J. H. F. Kemp for compiling all of that information for our benefit. If it weren’t for the efforts of historians such as you, Mr. Kemp, and a few others around here, our collections might seem like shiney curiosities without much meaning. As an afterthought; bravo to GMIC for offering a comfortable quorum for the historians, researchers, and experts to mingle and exchange information for the benefit of students, like me. Mike.

Well, this certainly offers a new perspective on the possible range of medal recipients. I wonder if Mr. Carpenter was merely on duty during the celebrations or was he actually a participant in the parades? And if so, in what capacity? Crowd control, logistics, etc.? I am also forced to wonder what other professionals were included as possible recipients, such as farriers, caterers, and so on, not to mention those hardy lads with the rakes and shovels following the horses. Seriously though, some criteria had to have been adhered to in the dispensing of medals. Fascinating stuff. Thanks for posting. Mike.

Is there a maker’s name stamped on the heel end? The shape resembles a Parker, Field truncheon but the painted decorations do not. The painting, while clearly the hand of an accomplished artist, suggests a much more garish style than a typical Parker Field example, particularly the crown. Quite a beautiful one-of-a-kind piece.

Perhaps forfeiture of part, or all, of his pension might teach him the importance of providing truthful answers on official documents! Larceny indeed!

Very nice. The dramatic lighting helps to accent the features too.

Well, tap as I may, I can’t get the photos to appear.

Bravo! Nice one.

Fascinating stuff. As a youth, I read (with difficulty), Solzhenitsyn’s dreary accounts. It’s gratifying to see that there were, from time to time, happy endings. I had never presumed that the awards could be restored. Thanks for posting. Mike.

According to Mr. Google, Gieves & Hawkes of Saville Row, London still possesses a Royal warrant to manufacture bespoke uniforms, etc. I imagine they would do a super job on the button repair, if given the opportunity. It’s not something I would normally wear, but it’s a beautiful bit of head-gear none the less. Show us the finished product when it’s done. Mike.

Amazing that it has lasted this long in such beautiful condition. It must be quite sturdy, or it’s owners have been very careful through the years. The document adds immensely to its value. Very beautiful! An absolute treasure. Mike

Thanks. That’s what I meant. I’m not too keen on starting a collection, but I must applaud the whole concept of giving some token of appreciation to those workers who strive for excellence, regardless of their oftentimes mundane Professions. Instilling pride might not put food on the table, but it sometimes makes the hunger pangs less acute. Mike.

Thanks Tony.

Absolutely beautiful! Mike

Please forgive me if I ask a foolish question. I’m trying to learn the service requirements for obtaining ww2 medals. How could the son qualify for the home defense medal if he also qualified for the Africa, Italy, and war medal? Not to mention the long service medal. Thanks. Mike

Nice one. These stories breathe a good bit of life into these old medals. Even though historical anecdotes are sometimes streaked with exaggeration, it’s fun to read them. Keep the tales coming.

Were these “excellent “ badges only for members of the military? Were there similar awards for civilian high-achievers? Is there a site where a list of all the examples could be seen? Really fascinating badges. Thanks. Mike.

For guns in similar condition, light oil and very fine bronze wool. If a gentle scouring doesn’t work, just leave it. A rough scouring might do more damage. Mike.

Well, between the links that Coldstream offered, the comments from Peter, and a Google search of De Wet and blockhouses, I am now one of the Worlds leading authorities on this aspect of the Boer War! Okay, that’s not quite true, but my ignorance has been tempered to some degree. Thanks gentlemen.

Wow! Nice picture. I think you’re right about the British helmets. The other gentlemen ( we’d call them “Rustlers” in this country), are wearing uniforms of a more casual nature. My guess is that they might be Boers. I’d also guess that this “roundup” was a notable actual event that was memorialized by a painting. Probably researchable. Again, terrific print. Mike

Amen to that! Mike.

Man, this thread just keeps getting better! Fascinating stuff. Thanks. Mike

I’d like to see a young trooper trying to explain the value of a “beautiful patina” to his Sergeant Major.