Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Cuba, Republic, Revolution Medal 4 September 1933, gilt, with ‘Libertad’ suspension bar, lacking suspension fitting, edge bruise; Red Cross Distinguished Service Medal, obverse: Henry Dunant, silver-gilt, with gilt brooch bar; Order of Carlos Balino, gilt medal, for 30 years service in the tobacco industry, with slip bar on ribbon, very fine (3) £100-140

On 4 September 1933, at Campo Columbia, non-commissioned officers unexpectedly arrested their superiors and took over command of the island's military forces. The ‘Sergeants' Revolt’ had been skilfully organised by Fulgencio Batista y Zaldívar. Batista then appointed himself chief of the armed forces and as such exerted control over the five-member presidency during the period 1933-40. He was later elected President, serving 1940-44. In 1952 with the backing of the U.S.A. he led a coup and served as unelected President, 1952-59, until ousted by the forces of Fidel Castro.