Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Honourable East India Company Medal for the Coorg Rebellion 1837, gold, 3rd class medal as awarded to Parpattigars, 47.05 grams including integral gold loop for suspension but excluding gold swivel-ring suspension and ribbon buckle as now fitted, a rare original medal, one of only 20 awarded in this class, with overall signs of wear, otherwise very fine £6000-8000

Principally awarded in 3 classes weighing 9, 7 or 4 tolas, one tola being equal to one silver rupee (11.7 grams or 180 troy grains). This example, although slightly heavier than the two previously recorded examples in the King Collection (Morton & Eden, October 2003, 44.69 grams) and the Ritchie Collection (Dix Noonan Webb, September 2004, 45.29 grams) still broadly conforms with the 3rd Class awards.

The first class, valued at 400 Rupees each, was awarded with a chain to the two Dewans. Twelve of the second class, valued at Rs. 200, were awarded with chains to the Subadars and principal Chiefs, while 20 of the third class, valued at Rs. 120, were awarded without chains for the Parpattigars and others. A further 10 gold medals of Rs. 50 in value were awarded to Ryots who specially distinguished themselves.