Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Practical Military Institution Officer’s Waist Belt Clasp, Volunteer Musicians Pouch Belt Plate, the first of 1855 pattern in all gilt finish featuring crossed sword and rifle with laurels in surround in the centre and ‘Practical Military Institution’ on the circle, matching journeyman’s marks; the second in die stamped white metal with similar central mount featuring a QVC crowned laurels, a dimpled central ground with assorted musical instruments and laurel sprays, two screw post fasteners, very good overall condition (2) £150-200

Note: The Practical Military Institute was founded during the Crimean War at Sunbury on Thames by Captain, later Major, Augustus Frederick Lendy to instruct gentlemen cadets in the construction of fascines and gabions in the making of a battery for field guns, additionally in the construction of regular or zig zag approach trenches. Training in the use and practise of the new Enfield musket was also part of the curriculum. Students and Instructors wore a military uniform being the undress of the Staff apart from the buttons and the waist belt clasp which bear the inscription Practical Military Institution. When the college closed is uncertain.