Orders, Decorations and Medals

Egypt and Sudan 1882-89, undated reverse, 2 clasps, The Nile 1884-85, Abu Klea (23642 Gun. T. Smith, 1/1So. Div. R.A.) pitting from star, otherwise nearly very fine £250-300

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Medals Relating to the Battle of Abu Klea.

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Four officers and 42 other ranks of 1/1 Southern Division, Royal Artillery, were present at Abu Klea. Gunner Albert Smith served with this same unit and was awarded the Victoria Cross for rescuing one of his officers, the only V.C. awarded for the Battle of Abu Klea. It is interesting to note that Gunner Thomas Smith, whose medal is offered here, has the consecutive regimental number to Gunner Albert Smith, V.C., his regimental number being ‘23641.’

Thomas Smith was born in the Parish of Waltham Abbey, Essex, sometime in 1863. He enlisted into the Royal Artillery on 10 January 1882, being discharged on 5 January 1894 on the completion of his period of service. Sold with confirmation and nine pages of copied service papers.