Mervyn Mitton

Some interesting points Brian - the subject just doesn't seem to get additional background reference from members. Perhaps just too far back in time and outside of people's knowledge. The strange thing is that everyone has heard of a Bulls Eye lantern, just never seen one - this is the difference a 100 year period makes. Mid-Victorian years and every household had the ordinary version since they were the 'torch' of those days.

Mathomhaus - some good information for collectors. I think this is an attractive dagger and well worth adding to a collection. The prices you quote seem fairly reasonable $350 = 218 pounds sterling. Do you have other articles from your collection that you could post ? Mervyn

Sounds an intersting trip. Take plenty of 'Delhi Belly' tablets and a set of photos from local museums would go well on our Museums Forum. Go well. Mervyn

Mike - another two good helmets that we must hope someone can help with definitive answers. This is not my field so I can't really help - apart from saying that an 'X' above the WD and broad arrow - usually means 'sold out of service. Have a look at book reviews - in the section under the Lounge. I did a review of an excellent book on Tropical helmets some time ago. Mervyn

Mike - I'm sorry that no member has been able to reply to your question. Perhaps just matter of time until the right person spots-it ? One of our respected members is in Sudan at this time - I will draw his attention and see if he can help. Welcome to GMIC. Mervyn

Jack - welcome to GMIC. I am sure that Members' recommendations above will be of help in your search. I am wondering why the urgency at this time - have you inherited something - or, perhaps starting a book ? Mervyn

The details on the reverse of the photo seem to be the photographer noting print sizes - however, there is a name - could it be for one of the Cadets in the photo ? http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_12_2012/post-6209-0-51464800-1355663941.jpgclick

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This is probably a graduating class of Royal Artillery Officer Cadets - and this is probably at Woolwich . Their College and HQ on the South Bank of the Thames in London. From their dress and headgear I would say 1880's - all comments will be welcome. The piedmont of the Arch shows it to commemorate the Crimea in 1854,55 and 56. However, the two units were closely associated in those days. http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_12_2012/post-6209-0-10314300-1355663280.jpgclick

Quite a while since we added to this Post. Two subjects which may be of interest to Members. Firstly Brigadier Lord Chesham - Imperial Yeomanry - Boer War. http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_12_2012/post-6209-0-50031500-1355662995.jpgclick

Jeff, your research has been exceptional and has yielded some excellent information. I would strongly recommend that you consider writing an article for one of the Medal magazines - your work will certainly help others seeking the same information. I would also say that Brian and I would welcome your results - with background on how you found out where to look - as an article on this Forum of GMIC. Mervyn

James - I was only joking - honest....................

Odin - we are fortunate to have many noted authors within GMIC. I see nothing wrong with giving details of your book for our own reference. Anyone wishing to have a signed copy can IM you direct. Mervyn

Juno - welcome to GMIC. The Epaulettes have the badge for a Light Infantry Company. Cavalry often had chain mail to protect against sword slashes - however, this was often a decision by the Regt. Colonel. The Gorget has no distinguishing Cypher for the King - and in fact could be quite an early one. You must remember that Georges 1 to 4 all followed each other. King George 3rd reigned from 1760 to 1820 - he was the second longest reigning Monarch after Queen Victoria. This period would cover the dates you give. The epaulettes will be silver - the Gorget probably Gilt brass. Mervyn

Nick - this is a great thing for GMIC and I am sure will be treasured by Members. The price is reasonable - people should order now as I am sure stocks are limited.

Ed - these are brilliant. Some close-ups would be good - and if you have more keep going. I thought the earlly ones were interesting. Mervyn

Thankyou Odin - that list will be a helpful reminder . I will ask Brian if he agrees with Pinning-it ? Have any of you noticed the Picture with Holyboy's (Neil) Avatar. ********** Full marks to the first reply that can tell us what it is showing + the date + where did it appear + and in which of the above Divs. did it take place ?

James - are you trying a 'sneak' attack to take away Sweden's only Victoria Cross ? Surely, even with Scottish antecedents - after a few generations they would be Swedish ? Stefan - I think you need to point out to James the error of his thinking.......................... Graham - pleased to hear from you. I would be grateful if you would IM me your price with air post - it will be my Christmas present to me ! Once I have read it, I will do a review on our books section. Mervyn

Brett - if you posted them originally on the Korean Forum - then they would be very welcome to be shown here as well.

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I thought this was an interesting old shell case - used by the South African Artillery during the Desert campaign in 1940 in the Western Desert. Egypt, Tunisia, Libya. Someone has picked it up - probably at the time - and mounted a Sth. African Signals badge. The various markings on the base are interesting. Mervyn http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_12_2012/post-6209-0-18580600-1355237191.jpgclick

Zippos have always had a high collectors value - these were obviously a bargain if they are original. I wonder though, if prices have dropped with people not smoking anymore ?

Rich - I must be honest and also, say that I can't see much difference . I have a good one in the shop - with it's suspension straps - what should I be looking for ? Thanks for bringing this site back - very interesting. Mervyn

Very interesting Sam - you can see the origins for later auto weapons. I think the Police acted honourably in allowing her to sell it at auction. Would this be legal in some States ?

The Bludgeon is painted with the Edward Crown and the Royal Cypher VR. This makes it an official piece - and at a time when ID's or Warrant Cards didn't exist - the painted truncheon - or, in this case the Bludgeon - represented the Constable's Authority and had to be presented when making an arrest. With all my years of collecting I only had two similar ones - unpainted ones were civilian and of moderate value. I would say this should be worth at least 500 pounds, $800. Possibly more to a dedicated collector - however, as with all collectables you have to find the right person. The history of the Constabulary link is all important. The Baluster Truncheon - whilst dated and Georgian - is probably only some 10 or 20 years older. GR of course stands for Georgius Rex - King George 4th. (A fat toad of note ! ) Probably 200 to 300 pounds. $480. Mervyn