Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Turkish Crimea 1855, Sardinian issue (Regimental Serjt. Major Wm. Lyons 6 Dragoon Guards) engraved in running script, plugged and fitted with contemporary Crimea-style suspension, very fine £100-£140

D.C.M. ordered 30 April 1856, with annuity from 6 May 1856.

William Lyons was born in Cashel, Tipperary, and attested for the 6th Dragoon Guards at the town of his birth in May 1832. He advanced to Troop Sergeant Major in December 1843, and Regimental Sergeant Major in March 1856. Lyons served with the Regiment in the Crimea and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal- the only D.C.M. awarded to the 6th Dragoon Guards for the Crimea.

Lyons was discharged January 1860, having served 27 years and 239 days with the Colours. He subsequently served as Regimental Sergeant Major with the West Somerset Regiment of Yeomanry Cavalry, January 1861 - April 1876, resulting in a combined military service of 42 years and 360 days.

Note: Lyons’ Distinguished Conduct Medal was sold in these rooms in September 2018.