The Jack Webb Collection of Medals and Militaria

Defence of Gibraltar 1779-83, a rare medal similar in style to those known as ‘Red Hot Shot’ medals, engraved on copper, 43mm with integral loop for suspension; obverse engraved within a ‘roped’ border ‘This Plate of Brass was taken out of one of the floating Batteries us’d by ye united forces of France and Spain against Gibraltar in the year 1782’; reverse engraved ‘Long live ye King & prosper his brave soldiers, may happiness reward those whom Glory has crown’d. In memory of the honour confer’d on Mrs D’Oyly by Colnl Craig of ye 56th Regt. - St Albans March ye 22nd 1784’, very fine and very rare £600-£800

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Jack Webb Collection of Medals and Militaria.

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Whilst this is unlike any of the ten or so known examples of the so-called ‘Red Hot Shot’ medals in design, it is very similar in terms of manufacture and engraving. Authorities in St Albans were unable to provide any information regarding Mrs D’Oyly but did suggest a possible connection with the Rev. D’Oyly, who was a vicar in St Albans at that time. Cannon’s History of the 56th Foot confirms that the 56th returned to England in 1784 and having marched from Portsmouth to Chatham, they then moved to Glasgow, via St Albans, where they camped for a short while.

An example of a ‘Red Hot Shot’ medal can be found in our online archive.