Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Army of India 1799-1826, 2 clasps, Kirkee and Poona, Corygaum (Private. Sonjee Gowday. 2nd Btn. 1st Rt. N.I.) long hyphen reverse, Indian style impressed naming, small edge bruise, otherwise nearly extremely fine and rare £3,000-£4,000

Whilst marching with a detachment from Sirur to strengthen the garrison of Poona, Captain F. F. Staunton, 2-1st Bombay N.I., encountered the Peishwa’s army; seizing the village of Corygaum he held it against all attacks, and although heavy losses were sustained he succeeded in withdrawing his force by night in safety to Sirur.

For their gallantry the 2-1st Bombay N.I. were constituted Grenadiers, and Captain Staunton was made A.D.C. to the Governor-General, and presented by the H.E.I.C. with a sword of honour and 500 guineas. A monument was erected at the site in 1821 to commemorate the action, inscribed with the names of all who lost their lives in it.