Militaria, Medals & Coins - All items at Lawrences Auctioneers

Welcome to the November Militaria, Medals & Coins auction at Lawrences. We hope you find something among the lots to tempt you. The diversity and history on offer never fails to impress, from the humble Second World War steel helmet to the most elaborate group of medals, every lot has a story to tell. This sale brings together items consigned from across the country, from Morecambe in the north to Kent in the south.

A highlight of the auction is the collection of medals relating to the Wiltshire Regiment and its antecedents. Formed by Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Benskin Green, the collection has been on loan to The Rifles Berkshire and Wiltshire Museum, ‘The Wardrobe’, in Salisbury since 1982. The first medals appear to have entered the collection before the Second World War, and none were added after 1958. It has remained unchanged for many years, and some pieces can be traced back to the pioneering days of medal collecting. One example is the medal to Patrick Cotter, which can be traced to the Sotheby’s sale of 6 March 1888, ‘Medals and Decorations, the property of Lieut Colonel Durie’. A medal that entered a collection when the Boer War, let alone the Great War, was still years away gives a fascinating insight into the history of medal collecting.

Among the coins, a standout is the Celtic gold stater of Cunobelinus. It’s an exceptionally well struck example, nicely centred and finely detailed, and few better are likely to come to market. Also of note is the George I crown of 1726, which is scarce in such good condition.

Viewing Times
Mon 16th November 9:30am–16:30pm
Tues 17th November 9:30am–16:30pm
Wed 18th November 9:30am–16:30pm
Thurs 19th November 9:30am–16:30pm
Fri 20th November From 9:30am

Viewing prior available by appointment

IMPORTANT: In keeping with other Auction Houses, Lawrences do not in any way guarantee Third Reich period items. These are sold on a subject to no return basis. Viewing is strongly advised.