BRITISH AND FOREIGN WAR MEDALS, CROSSES, BADGES, DECORATIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS MEDALS: In the collection of Lieut-Col H. F. Eaton, Grenadier Guards

The Eaton collection is probably one of the most outstanding medal collections ever formed, it would be medals from his cabinets that would eventually provide classic cornerstones for many of todays serious collections. Eaton had amassed a staggering quantity of superb pieces in his twelve cabinets. He laid out the catalogue by using the headings to identify the contents of each case. Starting ‘case one’ with two Peninsular Gold Crosses confirming 6 actions each, together with an Army Gold Medal for Java. A Naval Gold Medal for Camperdown. The silver campaign medals filled tray after tray, noted in his collection were: 165 NGS medals including the 6 clasp medal to Rear-Admiral George Cockburn.The military section was even more staggering with 174 MGS one with 15 clasps and 81 Waterloo medals. Plus a superb spread of early Indian campaign medals which numbered over 100, including 20 Army of India medals. Particularly noted the extremely rare CABVL 1842.Eton had 78 Crimea medals including many ‘charger’ medals to the Light Brigade for Balaclava. Among the gallantry decorations in the numerous trays were found a naval VC and five army VC’s. A copious spread of other decorations, campaign and meritorious service medals including Arctic and Life Saving awards are listed. Also a strong collection of early Regimental rewards, all well described. Foreign decorations bestowed upon British officers and men complete this outstanding private catalogue. A must for one’s reference shelf.