Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Sea Gallantry Medal (Foreign Services), V.R., small, silver, ‘From the British Government, For Gallantry and Humanity’ (Mr. W. H. Sutherland) in fitted case of issue, extremely fine £200-240

‘The S.S. Tiara, of London, was wrecked about 80 miles north-west of Cape Finisterre on 29 November 1879. The Hipparchus of Antwerp came to the rescue and four of the crew were picked up by a boat from the Hipparachus, commanded by the Mate W. H. Sutherland. The remaining 22 crew took to the Tiara’s own boat, and all arrived safely at Southampton on 3 December 1879. Great Risk was incurred from a heavy sea.’

William Henry Sutherland, of the S.S. Hipparachus, of Antwerp, was awarded the Sea Gallantry Medal for this action, with the medal being ordered on 18 February 1880; additionally, the Captain of the Hipparachus, W. H. Lyons, was awarded a binocular glass.