Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 22003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 222

(x) Seven: 2nd Lieutenant J. Simpson, Seaforth Highlanders

India General Service 1908-35, 1 clasp, North West Frontier 1908 (9116 Lc. Corpl. J. Simpson. 1st Bn. Sea. Highrs:); 1914 Star, copy clasp (9116 Sjt. J. Simpson. 2/Sea: Highrs.); British War and Victory Medals (2. Lieut. J. Simpson); Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Imperial Service Medal, G.VI.R. (John Simpson), very fine (7)

John Simpson served on the North West Frontier in 1908 and thence in France with the 2nd Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders. The Battalion were stationed at Shorncliffe as part of the 10th Brigade of the 4th Division and swiftly moved to Harrow. He proceeded to France with his unit in this rank, landing at Boulogne on 23 August 1914. Simpson was thrown into the crucible of Battle soon after at the Battle for Mons in October 1914. His unit was one of those which took part in the famed Christmas Truce of 1914.

Simpson would likely have known and fought alongside Drummer Walter Ritchie, who had been with them since late 1908. Ritchie went on to win a famous Victoria Cross on 1 July 1916 (Medals sold in these rooms in July 2022).

Simpson was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant and assuming he returned to his unit, would have been present on that famous occasion.

Subject to 5% tax on Hammer Price in addition to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium.

Sold for
£250

Starting price
£140