Auction Catalogue

6 & 7 December 2017

Starting at 10:00 AM

.

Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

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Lot

№ 1273

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7 December 2017

Hammer Price:
£340

Commonwealth of Australia Commemorative Medal for the Opening of the Australian Parliament, May 1901, small oval medal, gold (15ct), Royal Shield at centre with crown above, ‘Commonwealth Celebrations, May 1901, Victoria’ around; the reverse engraved ‘Capt. Henry P. Routh R.N.’, with ring suspension, in Elkington, London, fitted case, very fine, scarce £200-240

The first Australian Parliament was opened by H.R.H. the Duke of Cornwall and York (later H.M. King George V) at Melbourne on 9 May 1901.

Henry Peter Routh was born on 12 September 1851 and entered the Royal Navy in 1864. Promoted Commander on 30 June 1890, and Captain on 31 December 1896, he accompanied their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York to Australia during their tour to the Colonies, as Captain of H.M.S. Juno, and for his services was appointed M.V.O. Fourth Class (London Gazette 22 August 1902). He transferred to the Retired List on 12 September 1906, and was advanced to Rear-Admiral on 26 January 1907 and to his ultimate rank of Vice-Admiral on 18 September 1911. He died at home in Farringdon, Alton, Hampshire, on 8 January 1944.