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An Egypt 1882 group to Sailor Present at Victoria Cross action,…
Sale Title:
Auction House:
Auction Location:
Melbourne
Date:
11-Oct-2018
Lot No.
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Description:
An Egypt 1882 group to Sailor Present at Victoria Cross action, Egypt 1882 dated with bar Alexandria 11th July, Khedives Star 1882, long service and Good Conduct Medal (VR), G. Sparkes, Lg Sea: H.M.S. 'Alexandra' on first, G.H. Sparks, P.O. Ist Cl: H.M.S. Boscawen (correct naming but note spelling) on last, Star unnamed as issued. The clasp indicates Leading Seaman Sparkes was present at the bombardment of Alexandria on 11 July 1882, crewing the hallmarked sterling Alexandra, a central battery ironclad and usual flagship of the Royal Navy's Mediterranean Fleet. When targeting the fort at Ras-el-tin proved difficult while moving, the ship was halted so their batteries could suppress the returning fire. The motionless ship sustained several hits, and one crew member received the Victoria Cross for his actions that day. Prince George of Wales (the later King George V) joined this famous ship as a Lieutenant in 1886. It is likely the veteran Sparkes, by then promoted to Petty Officer, spent his final years of his long service training young sailors, stationed with the shore establishment hallmarked sterling Boscawen. Great opportunity for more research.
Estimate:
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Price:
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Category:
Unclassified