Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

St. Thomas-in-the-Vale Light Horse (Jamaica) Presentation Guidon 1783.
An extremely rare and historic example (one side only), presented by H.R.H. Prince William Henry, later King William IV. Swallow tailed format of ivory coloured silk splendidly embroidered, no doubt by the Ladies of the Parish, featuring a Royal Prince's coronet over the Star of the Order of the Garter, the initials 'WH' and the date 'March 1783', all within an oval of green leaves. Sun-burst decoration in the four corners and the unit title complete the decoration, trimmed all round with a gold wire fringe. Maximum length 112cm, depth 76cm, now mounted on board with perspex glazing, very good condition £3,000-£5,000

Note: The unit formed part of the Island’s St. Catherine’s Regiment of Militia. The Prince, then an officer in the Royal Navy, was the first Royal to visit the Island, arriving on 5 February 1783 on board the Barfleur, flagship of Admiral Lord Hood. During several weeks’ sojourn on the Island the Light Horse had the honour of attending the Prince. He was so pleased with their conduct that he directed that they should in future be entitled ‘Prince William Henry’s Troop’ and that a Standard reflecting this elevation should be presented to them.

Please note that this lot is not suitable for shipping, but can be hand delivered within mainland Britain by prior arrangement with Christopher Mellor-Hill.