Coins and Historical Medals

GLOUCESTERSHIRE, Alveston, Alveston Academy, an engraved silver First Prize for Elocution, unsigned, legend both sides, named (John E. Martin), maker’s stamp indistinct, hallmarked Exeter 1841 [or 1843], 46mm, 11.93g. Good very fine and toned, rare; with clip and ring for suspension £80-100

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, British Educational Award Medals from the Collection formed by the late T.H. Watts.

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In 1813 Thomas Helstone, a Professor of Mathematics from Cornwall, leased Alveston House from the Watkins family and established a boys’ boarding and day school. There were 45 acres of land with 8 acres reserved for the boys, several of whom were disabled in some way. The school’s brochure advertised its 'mild discipline' and the 'salubrity of the air'. Helstone was still listed as the proprietor in 1856.