Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Punniar Star 1843 (Lieutt. W. Campbell, 39th Regt. Native Infantry), with old riveted backstrap and swivel-ring suspension, and fitted with further brooch-bar and riband buckle, very fine £600-800

William Campbell was born in Edinburgh in December 1829, the son of Captain Archibald Montgomery Campbell, Royal Horse Artillery, of Askomel, Argyllshire, and the second of three brothers, all of whom served in the East India Company’s Army.

Entering Addiscombe Military Academy in February 1836, he was appointed an Ensign and and joined the 39th Regiment of Native Infantry on his arrival in India in September 1839. Advanced to Lieutenant in April 1840, Campbell served with his regiment in the Gwalior Campaign in 1843, when he was present at the battle of Punniar (Star), and, as Adjutant from October 1845 until his advancement to Captain in November 1849.

Granted extended furlough in 1854, he did not return to India until given command of a draft of troops in the transport Sentinel, but he died of cholera on 21 April 1858, barely a week after having disembarked at Fort William; sold with a file of research, including photographic copy of a portrait miniature of the recipient wearing his Punniar Star.