'Tenacious' Joseph McAllister's WWII George Medal sells for A$13,000

Noble Numismatics' sale of coins, banknotes, medals and jewellery concluded on Friday. As we reported, some of the jewellery was attractive, including a pendant with King Rama V displayed which is likely to be a good investment.

However, there was a greater range of coins and medals on offer, including some very impressive pieces from WWII:

A group of seven medals awarded to flight Observer Sergeant Overheu, headed by a Distinguished Flying Medal he was awarded jointly with his pilot Sergeant Leavers for their heroics in attacking an enemy convoy in 1941 was expected to do well, with the whole group expected to sell for A$5,000 (US$4,500).

The Sergeant's medals included a 1939-45 Star, Air Crew Europe Star, Africa Star, Defence Medal 1939-45, War Medal 1939-45, New Zealand War Service Medal 1939-45, together with New Zealand Memorial Cross (GVIR) and bidders were sufficiently impressed to push the final price to A$7,150.

George Medal group
Lance-Bombadier McAllister's George Medal group
(Click to enlarge)

As expected, it was Lance-Bombardier Gordon Joseph McAllister's George Medal set which proved the strongest draw. The fine and rare group of seven was awarded for his actions in 1945 when he saved the lives of six comrades from a flooded river at great personal risk.

The lot, which also included three albums containing Citation, Discharge Certificate, photographs, newspaper clippings, sold for A$13,000 against an estimate of A$12,000.

Medal collectors will also be excited to hear that the first Victoria Cross ever awarded to a soldier is on the market right now.

 

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