Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., V.R., narrow suspension (S. J. Staples, P.O. 1st Cl., H.M.S. Vivid.) impressed naming, minor edge nicks, good very fine £120-£160

Samuel John Staples was born in St. Andrew, Devon, in November 1864. He joined the Royal Navy as a Boy 2nd Class in July 1880, and advanced to Petty Officer 1st Class in November 1890. Staples was awarded the L.S. & G.C. in December 1892, and promoted to Acting Boatswain in April 1895. He was confirmed in that rank the following year, and advanced to Chief Boatswain in April 1912 - serving as Boatswain of Ship for H.M.S. Indus. Staples served with H.M.S. Colossus from August 1913 until May 1917, during which time he was present at the Battle of Jutland (awarded the Russian Medal of the Order of St. Anne London Gazette 1 October 1917). His subsequent postings included as Pier Master at Oban from June 1917 to July 1918 (entitled to a 1914-15 Star trio). Staples was promoted Lieutenant in September 1918, and advanced to Lieutenant Commander (Retired) in September 1921. He died in Plymouth in May 1928.

Sold with copied service papers.