The Douglas-Morris Collection of Naval Medals (Part 1)

Three: New Zealand 1845-66, reverse dated ‘1860 to 1861’ (W. Horn, Mate, Colonl. S. Victoria) impressed naming; Royal Humane Society, Large Bronze Medal (Successful) (William Horn, Acting 2nd Master, H.M.S. Fawn, 5th March 1862) fitted with ring for suspension; together with the Society’s Small Bronze Medal, named and dated as before, complete with ribbon brooch-buckle, good very fine and rare (3)

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Douglas-Morris Collection of Naval Medals.

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Although there are 40 names on the roll for H.M. Colonial Steamer Victoria, only 10 medals appear to have been issued. William Horn was awarded the bronze medal of the Royal Humane Society when he ‘jumped overboard and assisted to save E. Terry, A.B., of H.M.S. “Fawn,” who fell into the harbour at Auckland’ on 5 March 1862.

Born on 11 March 1840. First entered the Royal Navy after serving in H.M. Colonial Steamer VICTORIA to serve as a 2nd Master (Navigating Sub Lieutenant) aboard H.M.S. FAWN on 3 June 1861 until April 1863, and subsequently in SKYLARK (1865-66) where he was promoted to Master (Navigating Lieutenant) on 2 March 1866. Subsequently served aboard H.M. Ships ENTERPRIZE (1868-71) and RALEIGH (1874-76) and then placed on half pay until retired as a Staff Commander on 14 May 1881.