Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Four: Lieutenant-Colonel and Paymaster Sir Rodney Riddell, Bt., Army Pay Department, late 70th Regiment

New Zealand 1845-66, reverse dated 1863 to 1865 (Lieut., 70th Regt.); Afghanistan 1878-80, no clasp (Captn., 70th Foot); Egypt 1882-89, undated reverse, 1 clasp, Suakin 1885 (Maj. & Paymr. Sir R. S. Riddell, Bt., A.P.D.); Khedive’s Star 1884-6, unnamed, mounted for wear, generally good very fine (4) £1200-1400

Rodney Stuart Riddell was born 7 March 1838 and entered the Army as an Ensign in the 70th (Surrey) Regiment in March 1859. He became a Lieutenant by purchase on 16 October 1860. He served with regiment in the New Zealand War of 1863-65, including operations in the provinces of Taranaki and Waikato and the action at Pakekohe. Promoted Captain in September 1874, he served in Afghan war of 1878-80, the 70th Regiment being part of the Quetta column, moving upon Kandahar. In March 1880 he transferred to the Army Pay Department, as Paymaster with the honorary rank of Captain, attached to the 70th Regiment. He succeeded a cousin to the title of 4th Baronet in 1883. Sir Rodney next served in the Suakin expedition of 1885 as Paymaster and Major with the 2nd Battalion East Surrey Regiment (70th Regiment). In November 1885 he was placed on Half Pay with the honorary rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. He died on 2 January 1907.