Mervyn Mitton

Knight Commander of St. Michael and George. Companion of the Bath http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_10_2013/post-6209-0-17144700-1382110618.jpgclick

The main group of 11. DSO , BSA Company 1897 - bar Mashonaland , QSA , KSA , 1906 Rebellion - with bar 1906 , WW1 Trio , Colonial Aux. Off. Decoration - South Africa , Commemoration Medal - National Order of the Legion of Honour http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_10_2013/post-6209-0-63694900-1382110229.jpgclick

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A friend of mine owns an Auction House in Natal and has been fortunate to have on Auction on Nov. 28th. this exceptional group of medals - together with his son's M.C. Group. He has given me permission to use his catalogue pictures for this post - the quality is a little shadowy, however, I think you will find them interesting. Since our main Forum pages are not for selling - should anyone wish to contact the auction - IM me. Brigadier General Sir Duncan McKenzie KCMG, CB , DSO, VD. is a wll known past figure in Natal and in South Africa. He fought with distinction in the Boer War - went on in 1906 to command the Colonial Forces that fought the Zulu Rebellion in that year. He served in the 1st World War and died in 1932. He was the Colonel of Natal Carbineers. His son's MC group is included. - he was Lt. Col. Alexander McKenzie MC and was also with Natal Carbineers. This is the Brigadier's entry in the 1906 Natal Who's Who. I WILL PIN THESE FOR A WHILE TO LET PEOPLE READ THROUGH.

Well worth looking at this - a very highly skilled sculptor in gold and silver. I though his Griffon was very good - but the Nef or, sailing ship is exceptional. During the middle ages they had salt bowls in the middle of the ship and it was pushed down the table for people to help themselves. Whilst the workmanship is exquisite, I'm still not sure about his obsession with skulls - I suppose there is a market for pendents and bracelets. I think Robin will be a customer ? Thanks for showing this link. Mervyn

I have always found these bone and scull arrangements quite bizarre. I have seen them in many parts of the World - even in a Church in Dublin. I wonder did they bury the bodies first to get rid of the flesh ? The smell must have been dreadful. Mervyn

Chris - South African WW2 medals are named - and are therefore, easy to have researched. Paul's advice on rhino research is good. The medals are from left - 39/45 Star. Italy Star, British Defence Medal - only awarded to South Africans who did advance training for Italy or, North Africa in a British camp, War Medal and the South Africa Medal - this one is solid silver.

Hi - Kornel. Unfortunately the decanter was sold - I don't remember any etching on the base. Your URL is good - you'll become best friends with Robin....... I will post some more decanters -- however, doesn't any one else have some to show ? Mervyn

Stuka - I think you are right - the top for a walking stick. The holes seem to be at the right angle to have it facing straight out - there wouldw have been a top piece for the palm. Alex - fantastic - I've never seen these although I used to live in Blackheath until 1949. The Piracy angle could well be - after all we used to hang them further along the river front...........

I would say a possibility for French ? I don't understand though, how the letters and the grenade are up-side down to each other ? Mervyn

With so many posts, probably best to leavi it here. Mervyn

Stuka - these were known as writing slopes and were used in most homes and for travelling. The inside has the angle to write and all the supplies of pens, ink, paper, envelopes were held in separate compartments. The setting of it in a tin box could well be for a military officer - however, this would not be proof as in a humid, insect ridden place like the Congo, all paperwork would need protection. I would not expect this to have a big value. Mervyn

Native Chief's Medals have been awarded within the British Empire for many years. It was cheaper then giving gifts.......... Most of our Territories in Africa used them, in India, America. In the old Rhodesia they had a lovely silver style, and I think the Zimbabwe Govt. still gives them. Natal last issued them in 1902 for the Coronation of Edward 7th. For Nigeria we had the cheek to issue them in three grades. For lesser chiefs there was a staff with a brass head - this was engraved 3rd. Class Chief. I think only the British of those days would give an award named as a 3rd Class ! The 2nd class was silver - and 1st class - for Paramount Chiefs was a beautiful solid silver Hippo on top of an elaborate staff.

Kris - now that you have an approx. number of agent's medals from Chris - even more important to find out what you can. I do agree with you, that a local medal is going to more interesting. Please let us know your progress ? You mention you were approached by people offering to do research for money - did any of them come from GMIC ? Mervyn

Brian - when you move this to the Japanese section - is it possible to also leave it on this section ? Mervyn

Tim - I wish you luck in acquiring this fine example - and I think it is generous for Brian not to bid. I'm not sure that is necessary, as unfortunately other bidders won't stand down for you. The dealer has a very poor idea of what he is selling - he should of read my book................ Firstly, the price. If it goes at 300 pounds, that is a good price for a named item. I would say go to a max. of 400 (?) if that is within your budget. The item at 27cm. (10") is a tipstaff - and is typical of Cornish Truncheons and Tipstaffs. Whilst there are exceptions they tended to have a four sided top - often with four different panels. This one has the post 1816 Arms for George 4th (1820-1830). Since the Parish of St.Colomb is named - then this was for the Parish Constable. He may well have had a longer truncheon or, a Staff. Either of these would also have been decorated in the same way. I see time is nearly up - let us know if you are succesful ? Mervyn

Stuka - medals awarded to pro-British agents are not that uncommon - usually the problem is actually finding out about them. I suggest you research this as thoroughly as possible - there must be many records in the Town archives. They can only add to the value - and the interest. A photograph would certainly go well. Mervyn

Mickey - I am sorry that your question hasn't been answered. I will draw Brian's attention since he knows a lot about the different types. Despite the rust and poor condition this does look to me like an old and interesting sword. The trim appears to be gold ? Have you removed the wooden pegs from the handgrip to see if there are markings on the tang ? Will bee good to see what the experts think ? Mervyn

The RAMC was formed - I think - in 1898. So, he was an early member. His bars tell us he was in the battles to achieve the Relief of Kimberley. There are a lot of RAMC Medals coming up at Auction in SA in the near future. This could reduce prices, so, hang onto them for a while. Mervyn

Will - I meant to remind you that our Photo Comp. is running to the end of October. There must be a number of old British and South African graves and memorials in the areas you are visiting ? Also, some of your collection would go well in the different categories. Have a look - Comp. Forum - above the Lounge. Mervyn

Mike - I would hope that some of our Canadian Members will be able to show their support in a tangible way ? Mervyn

A very sad story - and as Jock says 'Tragic" , that the illness wasn't recognised. During the 1st. WW we executed many men for desertion and dereliction of duty - stress wasn't recognised as an 'illness'. However, in 2013, I would have thought an exSoldier , who had health problems, would have been looked at more closely. Mervyn

Hi - Will. You've added some lovely new pieces to this set - adds a lot to our knowledge on their badges and uniforms. I hope you are well - I see that you list Juba - have you left Somalia ? Best wishes Mervyn ps. The SADF handcuffs are the standard british Police 'D' shape. In use until about 1972.

Was Fray Bentos the name of the tank - it was a type of corned beef ! Gallantry of the first order - I had never heard of this incident. Mervyn