A significant medal collection, meticulously assembled by a late hero of World War II from Cheshire, is set to be auctioned this month. The collection, consisting of 145 lots with a guide price reaching up to £25,000, belonged to Edward Ernest Butler, also known as Ted. Halls Fine Art’s militaria, naval, and aviation auction in Shrewsbury will host the auction on August 27, where these medals, predominantly linked to the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry (KSLI), Cheshire, and Gurkha Regiments, will be showcased. Noteworthy among these are various gallantry medal groups, including the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
Ted, born in Sandbach in 1926, had a diverse career, initially working at Westminster Bank in Winsford and later joining the Royal Navy in 1944. Serving in the Far East, alongside the 14th Army and Gurkha units, Ted traveled through Malaya, Singapore, and Siam, witnessing pivotal moments such as Japanese soldiers surrendering. His wartime experiences fueled a deep interest in militaria and history, leading him to become an avid collector. Despite battling meningitis and eventually passing away in 2004, Ted’s dedication to his collection remained unwavering until the end.
The collection showcases a range of medals with fascinating stories, such as the Great War Distinguished Conduct Medal group awarded to Colour-Sergeant Major Frederick J. Meachin of the Cheshire Regiment. This group, valued at £1,000 to £1,500, sheds light on heroic acts during the assault on Vimy Ridge in 1917. Another notable piece is a trio of Great War medals, including the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal, Distinguished Conduct Medal, and Military Medal awarded to Lance Sergeant John Purcell of the 1st Battalion KSLI, valued at £800 to £1,200. Purcell’s valorous actions near Fayet in France in 1918 are commemorated through these medals.
Among the collection is a rare Military General Service Medal 1783–1814 with six clasps awarded to Sergeant William Shackleton of the 53rd (Shropshire) Regiment of Foot. Only nine such medals were awarded to the regiment with the same clasp combination, making it a unique piece valued at £800 to £1,200. Additionally, medals like the Sutlej Medal 1845–46 for Aliwal 1846 and the Punjab Medal 1848-’49 awarded to Sergeant Mathew Casey of the 53rd (Shropshire) Regiment of Foot, each valued at £450 to £550, contribute to the historical significance and value of Ted’s collection.
Caroline Dennard, a specialist in militaria at Halls Fine Art, commented on the historical context of these medals, providing insights into the actions and events that earned these brave servicemen their distinctions. The auction of this remarkable collection not only honors the memory of Ted but also serves as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who served in conflicts throughout history. Each medal tells a story of heroism and valor, preserving the legacy of these brave individuals for generations to come.
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