Island Life Magazine Ltd April/May 2018 | Page 68

AUCTION SUMMARY February was another busy month for the team at Brading, with a fantastic coin collection creating world wide interest and a frenzy on the live bidding platform. ASK THE EXPERTS: MEDALS British awards and decorations have many fascinating stories. There are two major categories: campaign medals and gallantry medals. Campaign medals are awarded to members of the British Armed Forces, Allied forces and civilians participating in specifi ed military campaigns. More than 80 different medals have been issued since the fi rst (the Peninsular Gold Medal) was awarded to offi cers in 1810, with fi ve new medals already awarded in the 21st century. Gallantry medals recognise personal accomplishments by members of the British armed forces or acts of civilian bravery - each one with a remarkable story of heroism. The auction also had Lalique glass, Moorcroft vases and IW glass which all did very well and found homes across the UK. Managing Director Warren Riches said the sales were extremely busy with over 250 people waiting to bid live via the live bidding platform. This facility is not cheap, but Warren says the benefi ts to the vendors and sale total is immense. SPECIAL OUTDOOR SALE On April 27th HRD Auction Rooms will be holding the usual Arreton Barns outdoor sale with a large variety of vehicles, tools, garden furniture and statues. Anyone wishing to enter items should either take the goods to the fi eld on 23 rd /24 th April 10am - 4pm or call 01983 402222 for a valuer to visit. RECENTLY SOLD ITEMS Collectors typically focus on medals issued by their own country. In the United Kingdom the selection is huge and there are no restrictions on their sale (as there are in the USA). The Napoleonic, Crimean and Boer Wars, the Indian campaigns followed by the First World War and ensuing major 20th century British armed confl icts (18 different campaign medals were issued in the Second World War alone), divide the collecting fi eld. Four gold coin set Sold for £2,650 Silver canteen of cutlery Sold for £1,800 George III gold coin Sold for £1,200 Michael Harris glass vase Sold for £700 Microscopic lenses Sold for over £950 Three gold coin set Sold for £1,500 There are those who focus on certain regiments, specifi c military campaigns and even single decorations of the highest order, such as the Victoria Cross. Antiques & Collectables Modern & Vintage Brading Auction Rooms Quay Lane, Brading, Sandown Isle of Wight, PO36 0AT T: 01983 402222 E: [email protected] 68 www.visitilife.com