Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 20003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 20

'The frontlet of HER MAJESTY'S GOAT', third quarter, 19th century

Probably in silver but no hallmark visible, a shield-shaped frontlet, or head-plate, surmounted by the Badge of The Prince of Wales; the shield polished within a narrow foliate rim, the Badge cast and chased in relief; the shield engraved: Presented BY Her Majesty the Queen TO THE 2nd BATTn 23rd R.W. FUSILrs; measuring 203 mm x 102 mm. The frontlet mounted upon a black-painted wooden block, 280 mm x 127 mm, backed with green baize and bearing two rectangular silver plaques, above and below the frontlet, both struck with the hallmarks for the Birmingham assaying year 1907-08 and the maker's mark of Henry Bourne; the top plaque measuring 17 mm x 85 mm and engraved: FRONTLET OF HER MAJESTY'S GOAT; the bottom plaque measuring 28 mm x 85 mm and engraved: PRESENTED TO COLONEL R.B. MAINWARING C.M.G. BY HIS BROTHER OFFICERS ON HIS RELINQUISHING THE COMMAND 1898

Some damage to the Badge, an old repair to the top of the shield and the inscription much worn by polishing.

2nd Bn. the 23rd Foot, or Royal Welch/Welsh Fusiliers, was raised in 1858, whereupon it embarked for Malta, where it received its Colours and its first goat, from the Queen. In 1881, it lost the numerical designation '23rd' and so it seems probable that this 'frontlet' dates from the period c. 1858-81. Since the plaques can be dated to 1907-08, it is possible that this frontlet was received by Dobell as a wedding present, perhaps from Colonel Mainwaring: he married on 3rd March 1908.

Subject to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium. For more information please view Terms and Conditions for Buyers.

Sold for
£700

Starting price
£300