Noonans

A silver and gold presentation belt given to a civilian volunteer nurse who looked after the sick and wounded during the Siege of Ladysmith during the second Boer War has soared over estimate in a London auction.

Such was the notoriety of Gunner James Collis that his family did not attend the funeral even though he had three sons in the army.

A privately produced Victorian silver bravery medal proved hugely popular when offered at Noonans (24% buyer’s premium) on June 21.

This 15th century gold ring, set with a rhomb-shaped table-cut sapphire, is engraved with lilies and other flowers issuing from a crescent bowl.

This 15th century ring, set with a rhomb-shaped table-cut sapphire, is engraved with lilies and other flowers issuing from a crescent bowl.

This Art Deco sapphire and diamond brooch, c.1925, cased by Collingwood, was a gift to Princess Margaret from her grandmother Queen Mary, on her confirmation on April 15, 1946, when the princess was aged 15.

An original owner of considerable military renown made the difference when a c.1820 gold fob seal came up for auction in London on March 14.

Struck c.1500 in Lisbon from Guinean gold provided by the explorations of Vasco da Gama, the 10 cruzados piece or Portugués do ouro of Manuel I (1495-1521) is a coin synonymous with the Age of Discovery.

Instituted by Maria Dickin, the founder of the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), in 1943, the Dickin Medal has been awarded on 71 occasions – 32 of them going to pigeons, 34 to dogs, four to horses and one to a cat.

The unexpected but very welcome increase in demand that the market experienced amid Covid lockdowns continued in 2022 as restrictions eased – and auction houses are optimistic about another strong performance this year

A sale of Banknotes at Noonans included this One Rupee note issued by the Banco Nacional Ultramarino in Goa in 1917. The rare first issue note took £13,000 (plus 24% buyer’s premium).

With 39,000 of these campaign honours given out, which ones can generate extra demand and achieve higher prices?

The personal stories behind medals are becoming increasingly relevant to collectors.

Vice Admiral Davidge Gould was the last surviving member of Nelson’s Band of Brothers, dying in 1847

A pair of militaria highlights related to Irish regiments that came up in recent auctions.

Discovered by a metal detectorist on Dorset land once owned by Sir Thomas Brook, the late 14th century diamond set gold love ring captured hearts and international interest at Noonans’ (24% buyer’s premium) Mayfair rooms.

The most famous of the many silversmiths in the German city of Hanau in the late 19th century was Neresheimer & Söhne.

While Ascot Gold Cups are not uncommon, the sight of two heading down the home straight to a rostrum finish on the same day was definitely rare.

The most famous firm of the many silversmiths in the German city of Hanau in the late 19th century was Neresheimer & Söhne.

When Bill Speakman won his Victoria Cross on November 4, 1951, fighting beside him was Corporal John Pender.