Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

An unusual Empress of India medal group of three awarded to Quarter-Master Sergeant G. W. Cook, 65th Regiment

New Zealand 1845-66, reverse dated 1860 to 1865 (245 George Wm. Cook, 65th Regt.); Army L.S. & G.C., V.R., 3rd issue, small letter reverse Qr. Mr. Sergt. G. W. Cook, 65th Foot); Empress of India 1877, silver, engraved on the edge (No. 245. Qr. Mr. Sergt. G. W. Cook. 65th Regt.) the first two fitted with attractively engraved ribbon buckles, toned, the first nearly very fine, the others better (3) £1,000-£1,200

Provenance: Buckland Dix & Wood, May 1993.

George William Cook was born in the Parish of Kidderminster, Worcestershire, and attested there for the 65th Foot on 19 July 1859, aged 18. He served abroad in New Zealand for 5 years 3 months, and in ‘East India’ for 9 years 9 months. Following service in the Taranaki and Waikato campaigns in New Zealand, he was promoted to Corporal in June 1866. He reengaged at Kinsale in March 1868, was promoted to Sergeant in March 1870 and to Quarter-Master Sergeant in July 1873. He was discharged at Netley on 17 May 1881, on termination of his second period of engagement. His discharge papers note that ‘He is in possession of a Second Class certificate of education. The New Zealand War Medal, and a silver medal for long service and good conduct; also the Medal Commemorative of the assumption of H.M.’s title as Empress of India.’

Sold with copied discharge papers and medal roll extract.