paul wood

Definitely has a Chinese Cottage Industry Special look about it, look forward to seeing the reverse. Paul

I have 10848 William W. Skinners Lincoln regiment MIC card printed off, served in France from 14 July 1915. He was posted to Class Z as he was agreed to serve during the duration which meant that in the event of Germany not honouring the armistice he could be recalled, class Z was abolished in 1920. If you want me t0oe-mail you a copy please PM me, that's really all you can find out about him. Paul

It is a badge of Lodge 160 (formerly lodge 421) of the Independent Order of Oddfellows, which was a New York branch of the group. The oddfellows were originally set up in the north of England in the 18th century as mutual which all funds were used for the protection of members who had fallen on hard times, the American branches split away in the 1830s and formed the Independent Oddfellows. The badge is fun but I can't imagine that it will be of any huge value. All the best, Paul

The medal Year book is definitely useful, however one should use it very much as a rough guide, in some areas the prices are too high, in others too low. For example I would suggest, based on current auction prices, that it is a bit optimistic on most WWII gallantry (obviously exceptional awards, such as Arnhem &C will make somewhat more) as quite a lot is appearing on the market (very much like WWI in the 70's and 80's due to anno domini). On the other hand I would be ecstatic with delight if I could buy some of the early and mid Victorian campaign medals to Indian recipients at the prices listed, unfortunately when such pieces do appear in auction I generally have to pay considerably more. Given these points it is certainly, along with the Spink publication "British Battles and Medals" a must have book for all collectors of British medals, but don't be too worried if you can get hold of copy that's a few years old It will still be very useful. Paul

Yes Spas, I meant Kew. If you want to PM me I am seeing a friend tomorrow who virtually lives in Kew (much to his wife's delight). I can see what he can dig up if you like. All the best, Paul

It's actually a brass counter made by Kettle and Sons of Birmingham who produced several counters based on the Napoleonic wars, they were issued around 1820 as one of the which has the identical reverse to the above piece has the head of George IV with the title GEORGIVS IV BRITANNIARUM REX F.D. they were almost certainly a group of roundels used as gambling tokens. Further information is available in Laurence Brown "British Historical Medals" Vol. 1 (1760-1837). Paul

His DFM was gazetted 15 August 1944 (no citation) but for a few quid on the PRO site you should be able to get the recommendation. Paul

Dear All I have just been asked about this order which I am afraid has me stumped, any Idea welcome. Paulhttp://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_12_2014/post-3085-0-43501500-1417780982.jpghttp://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_12_2014/post-3085-0-31689800-1417780957.jpg Paul

Owain, A Sarwan is a Camel Driver, plenty of those in the Aden area and A.H. Corps is Army Hospital Corps. All the best, Paul

Owain, after reading your post I looked in the mirror and noticed that my colour had changed to green, I like the Aden Local Transport Sarwan, the 1st Assistant Head Storekeeper and the bronze. I am definitely guilty of breaking the 10th commandment. All the best, Paul

According to Baldwin's website Russian coins and Medals will be sold on 8 January, just over 5 weeks, I would imagine the sale will be on-line within the next week or two. Paul

Thanks for you reply's, seems like OK if in the area but not worth me investing in a trip there. Paul

As a matter of interest would the show be of any interest to a general world collector or is it all Imperial and Third Reich. Paul

I am afraid that their value is more historical than commercial. When it comes to the collector's market Seljuk and Ilkhanid copper has about as much popularity as the proverbial floating object in a swimming pool, there is market for the gold and to a much lesser extent the silver but the copper I am afraid it's a case of how much will you give me to take it off your hands, which is a shame, but at least it will hopefully end up in a museum rather than in various European auction houses. Paul

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hassi_Messaoud Unofficial medal presumably produced by an oil company. Paul

Harry, Thanks so much for the link, most appreciated. Paul

Maybe persistence will have it's own reward. Paul

It's the King's badge given to personnel invalided out of the service during WWII and in receipt of a war pension, similar to the Silver War badge of WWI. Paul

Can you do a better image of just that area as it is not really sharp enough to be sure. All the best, Paul

Rather poor imitation of the Russian Order of St George (It can't be Russian Federation though the quality is somewhat better than that) Paul

Yes a butchered order relying on the theory that there is one born every minute. Paul

I think it says Artistic Union of Greek Hairdressers, so not official. Paul

Radmilo Some really nice orders and decorations there, Dragomir is as usual spot on re the Mohammadi. Any chance of someone popping in there with as secret camera and getting better shots. All the best, Paul

I must confess I am not dumfounded with shock. Paul

Dear Victor, The medal appears to be genuine, however the rim has been skimmed to remove the original naming and the details now on the rim are later engraved. I don't recollect the Kiev Hussars as being present at Waterloo. Even as a renamed piece it is still worth $500 All the best, Paul