Three: Private C. Dobbings, 11th Light Dragoons

Military General Service 1793-1814, 1 clasp, Salamanca (Charles Dobbings, 11th Light Dragoons) suspension re-affixed, brooch marks to reverse with slight affect to ‘Charles’; Waterloo 1815 (Charles Dobbings, 11th Reg. Light Dragoons.) fitted with original steel clip and ring suspension; Army L.S. & G.C., W.IV.R. (Charles Dobbings, 11th Reg. Light Dragoons. 1833.) fitted with original steel clip and rectangular bar suspension, the Waterloo with light contact marks, otherwise nearly very fine or better (3) £4,000-£5,000

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Paul Bentley Collection.

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Spink’s List, October 1909; Glendining’s, October 1910, July 1919 and March 1988.

This is a unique combination of medals to the 11th Light Dragoons, and one of only three men in the regiment to get a William IV L.S. & G.C. medal.

Charles Dobbings was born in the Parish of Upleadon, near Newent, Gloucestershire, and attested for the 11th Light Dragoons at London on 28 February 1804, aged 18 years, a labourer by trade. He ‘served three years and half in the Peninsula, three years in France, twelve years and half in the East Indies; Present at the Battle of Salamanca, Elboden, Vittoria, Storming of Badajoz & Waterloo.’

He served at Waterloo in Captain James Duberly’s Troop. Dobbings served in India from 12 July 1819, but does not appear to have played any part in the operations against Bhurtpoor with his regiment. He left India on 31 December 1831, returning to England to receive his final discharge on 13 November 1832, being found ‘unfit for service and that he is likely to be permanently disqualified for Military Duty.’

‘Copy of the character given Private Charles Dobbings 11th Light Dragoons, as inserted in the Proceedings of a Detachment Board held at Cawnpore on the 12th December, 1831.
The Officers composing the Board having examined the Regimental Defaulters Book, received parole testimony from Lt. & Adjt. Ready, are of opinion that his conduct has been that of a good and efficient soldier, seldom in Hospital, trustworthy and sober, and strongly recommend Private Dobbings to receive on Discharge the highest Pension & Gratuity, as also a Medal for his long & faithful Services.’

His L.S. & G.C. medal was sent care of Mr J. Veale, Gloucester, in April 1833.

Sold with copied discharge papers and L.S. & G.C. medal register entry.