Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

New Zealand 1845-66, reverse dated 1863 to 1864 (Armr. Sergt. J. Darran, 40th Regt.) partially officially renamed, light contact marks, very fine £340-380

Joseph Darran was born in Chatham, Kent, and attested for the 40th Foot at London, in February 1840. He served with the Regiment during the First Afghan War 1842 (entitled medal) and at the battle of Maharajpoor (entitled medal). He sailed with the Regiment for service in Australia in 1852, and according to family tradition he took part in the battle of Eureka Stockade, Ballarat, Victoria, 3 December 1854. He served in Australia for 8 years prior to service with the Regiment in New Zealand. He was discharged 12 August 1862, having served 22 years and 183 days with the Colours.