Mervyn Mitton

Hugh - a sad letter from Mr. Barlow and I commend you for doing the honourable thing and lettting him purchase the medal. Who knows - the enquiries may help him to locate others in the group. Mervyn

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_04_2012/post-6209-0-15335700-1335711590.jpgCLICK TO ENLARGE This post deals with the Shakoes worn by two very famous Scottish Regiments. The Highland Light Infantry and the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles). The two helmets that I will be showing date from the Boer War period - however, the Shakoes date back to earlier dates - 1860's. I understand that only these two Regiments wore them - again, that does not mean that smaller units within Scotland did not have them at some time. Readers' comments will be appreciated as always. I do not plan to go into the history of the Regts., rather this is to show these unusual hats. Being black, they have been a nightmare to photograph - black accessories on black cloth do not show well. My apologies if they are not very clear. One final note - to have both examples of the o/r's helmet is fairly rare - particularly in the very fair condition these are-in.

Very interesting Windu - yes the Lounge article covered a number of items - but they get covered so quickly that I agree with you that a dedicated thread is better off here. How big was this meteorite - it must have been split-up and given,or, sold to residents ? Many Countries claim them for their museums - however, I have seen them come-up at US auctions and they fetch quite high prices. Mervyn

A lovely historical item - that has been well looked after. I would think you are right that it would have been part of the Officer's Mess kit. Mervyn

Paul - welcome to the Forum. You certainly bring an interesting story with you. There were a number of internment camps set-up in Australia during the First WW - and again in WW2. However, this is the first time I have heard of a prisoner being released to join one of our armies. Obviously , his Jewish background must have played a big part in the decision to release him. I would say that you have a rare medal and it it would be interesting to have research carried out on what led to the decision. I would also say, that you have an good article for both German and Aussie papers.

CJ - welcome to GMIC. I'm sure one of the members will be able to help you - allow a little time for a reply. Mervyn

This is an interesting research subject. Should you all be able to continue with the subject , then Brian and I will be pleased to make it a Moderators' Post. Tell us if you think there is further 'mileage' ? Mervyn

I agree Odulf - under magnification it is an 'S'.

Krad - that explains the damage to the leather scabbard - unless they are held upright to sheathe the sword they tend to crack and break. There were two types of Court swords - a civilian pattern - worn at Levees and formal gatherings. The Military version was known as a Levee sword and was a very thin blade. Usually, in a Regt. only the Colonel and the Senior Major would have one. We will have to wait and see if we can find some markings to pin a Country down. Mervyn

Well - you did well with the price on this one Phil - a lovely speciman. Do you have any other edged weapons that could come onto this Forum ? Mervyn

Krad - the larger sword has engraving on the blade and may well be Italian - are there no markings anywhere? The guard looks to be Aluminium - and seems very large for the sword - any signs of interference ? The smaller sword does look like a court sword - but for which country - again, any marks ? The style is of the 18th C - but this doesn't mean that was when it was made. The lack of a scabbard does detract from the price. The price of 85 pounds is not a high one for two swords - but , only you can decide if they are worth that to you. Personally, I would advise finding better examples - but, that's only my opinion. Mervyn

Will - the MC has a bar at the back on the top - this hold the suspender pin. Mervyn

Phil - an interesting and well presented post. The dagger is well made and attractive - is this still the current pattern ? Mervyn

Welcome to GMIC. You will be most welcome to add to this thread - although I should think there is enough now, to write a book. Mervyn

I would like to take the opportunity on our Police Forum to welcome Leigh Kitchen back. You will remember that a few years ago that he had family illness to contend with and stood down as our British Host. Leigh we will all be delighted to see your return - please give us a run down on what you are doing now and how your multiple collections are getting-on ? Best wishes Mervyn

Leigh - are you back with us - absolutely delighted if you are. Mervyn

Hi - have had a look at your two brooches. The first one does not have a hallmark and is probably gilt - probably on silver. The diamonds are missing in a few places - and from the photo I would say they are marquisite - rather then diamonds. This was a popular form of decoration. The number looks like 10S1 - if so, then it is probably a pattern number. The number scratched onto the reverse is probably a jewellers identification mark - this was very common on repaired items - or, it may be a pawn shop no. ? With the small damage to the enamel, I would estimate about 30 -40 pounds ($48 - 64) - but check catalogues. The second one - the Edward 7th. - is an attractive design. It is made of silver, which has been gilded. However, whilst the marks show the Birmingham mint, the shape around the letters is wrong for that period and the 'D' is totally the wrong shape. A mystery - did Ireland at that time use a different shaped letter for the year ? Ask a jeweller ? Value for this one - perhaps 50 pounds ($80). Best wishes. Mervyn

Pre-1938 as it doesn't have a date. They were not named but, often have private naming. I would say that yours is probably 1st WW and it looks quite genuine. It is solid silver. The ribbon needs changing - not a difficult task and the top suspender is missing. Do you have any idea of anyone in the family who might have been awarded this MC. Ranks od recipients were usually from Major down to senior Warrant Officers. Should you wish to sell - you should use GMIC For Sale section. I , personally would be interested. Mervyn

No - at 400 I can make it out. Very clever - and very sensible. So many people don't think of marking their original work to show copyright and ownership. Mervyn

The patterns for cape holders were very similar - but, I think of different materials. They were suspended from the left hip with the cape rolled and doubled. The originals were covered with a rubberised coating - prone to becoming sticky and to crack. There was also the other pattern issued - this was of wool and was for very cold weather - it was worn over the greatcoat. The weight must have been backbreaking. I was issued with a gabardine cape - numerals either side of the throat and the collar closed with the usual bent pin fastener. One lesson learned in Victorian times and always laid down in Regs. - was that a cape was not to be worn after dark. Just too many of our early police found the cape being pulled over their heads. They were then helpless with boith arms pinned.

The detail on your weapon picture is amazing - I can easily see where 70 hours went. What I can't see is the paw print - I had it up to 400 mags. and still couldn't see it - give us a clue ? Chapter 3 of the novel will be out soon - don't let priorities slip.................... Mervyn

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_04_2012/post-6209-0-44106200-1334846097.jpgCLICK TO ENLARGE

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_04_2012/post-6209-0-73199000-1334845952.jpgCLICK TO ENLARGE

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_04_2012/post-6209-0-26611300-1334845797.jpgCLICK TO ENLARGE

Nice 2 bar QSA - but to a Cyclist in the Prince of Wales Light Horse. A little oil and not 4 hours grooming must have been a change. http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_04_2012/post-6209-0-83200100-1334845640.jpgCLICK TO ENLARGE