Ashantee 1873-74, 1 clasp, Coomassie (J. Short, Shipwt., H.M.S. Amethyst, 73-74) claw tightened, slight contact marks, very fine £350-400

A note with the lot states that Shipwright Joshua Short, R.N. was mentioned in despatches (London Gazette 23 March 1874) for his part in the River Volta Expeditionary Force commanded by Commodore Hewett. ‘Short was placed at the disposal of Major R. Holme, Royal Engineers, who reported universal good conduct of the fourteen carpenters loaned. Their readiness in performing every duty, whether it be pickaxe or shovel work. They were cheerful under all difficulties, rendering very valuable assistance in the construction of the Prah Bridge’.