TOPIC:

Great that this particular transaction looks like having a happy ending, but on a broader note, it is a worrying trend that a (relatively modest) QSA is the subject for fakery. I saw this particular medal whilst the auction was still live, and didn't note any obvious red flags (...though I am very much a newbie to all of this). Was there anything that might have alerted others? [apart from the fact that the medal was already in Rory's collection!].

Cheers,
Johnathan

JL
An ebay link would be useful for those interested in seeing details of the fake.

Pete

Working on the assumption that it is OK to post this eBay link, here it is



I thought it looked rather grubby but the naming seemed OK (?)

I would like to digress a bit from medals.
My interest is in arms, and I wanted to point out that the photo confirms the Natal Carbineers were carrying Martini Enfields [Martini single shot action in .303 cal] rather than bolt action Lee Enfields or Lee Metfords. Now, it's not possible to safely carry the Martini Enfield loaded, because there is no safety catch - when loaded, the rifle is cocked and ready to fire. Thus I am sceptical that Maj. Karri Davies would have said to his men before going into action: "Boys, load your guns".
I attach a couple of drawings of Carbineers which give a good impression of their kit.

Another example of mis-heard Siege of Ladysmith lore is in Bella Craw's entertaining siege diary.
Regarding the attack on Surprise Hill 11 Dec 1899, she writes:
"They also bayonetted some of the men in small sangars alongside. One of the Officers leading one of the Companies did so with a broomstick. Being attacked by the Boers he hit a Boer over the head breaking the stick."
Broom stick makes no sense, but I'm pretty sure she heard "broom handle" which is the common term for the C96 Mauser Pistol. I attach a picture of a "broomhandle Mauser" used in the South African War - they were popular with officers on both sides.

JL
I’m curious to know what are features of the medal you bought that make you believe it to be a “fake”

Thanks
Pete