Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

China 1857-60, 1 clasp, Taku Forts 1860 (Lieut. C. E. Rennie 44th. Regt.) a post-1873 specimen with 20th Century machine engraved naming, extremely fine £100-£140

Charles Elphinstone Rennie was born in Edinburgh on 29 June 1839, and was commissioned Ensign (without purchase) in the 44th Regiment of Foot on 19 November 1858. Promoted Lieutenant (by purchase) on 20 April 1860, he served during the Second China War, including the action of Sinho, and the storm and capture of the Taku Forts, where the regiment was awarded two Victoria Crosses. He was promoted Captain (by purchase) on 22 June 1867, and Major (without purchase) on 1 January 1875. Appointed Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, Essex Regiment (as the 44th Foot had been renamed), with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel on 1 July 1881, he retired on 16 September 1885, and was promoted Major General on retirement. He died in Twickenham on 11 November 1888. This was his sole medallic entitlement.

Note: An officially impressed medal to this recipient is known to exist.