This medal is the same, with the exception of the omission of the date, as the one given for the First Chinese War (No. [585]). It was given for services in the campaign of 1856—8, Major-Gen. Van Straubenzee and Adm. Sir M. Seymour commanding; and of 1860, Sir James Hope-Grant commanding. The clasps for FATSHAN 1857 and TAKU FORTS 1858 were awarded to the navy and marines, and that of CHINA 1842 to recipients of the first medal who were engaged in the Second Chinese War. This is a proof.
605. Abyssinian War, 1867—1868. Obv. Within ornamented star of nine points, bust of Queen l., veiled and crowned. ABYSSINIA, (letter in each angle formed by points of star). J. S. & A. B. WYON SC. Rev. Laurel-wreath with inner circle. Silver. Size 1·3. By J. S. and A. B. Wyon. Surmounted by crown. Ribbon, crimson with white edges.
Awarded to those who served in the Abyssinian War 1867—8, Sir Robert Napier (Lord Napier of Magdala) commanding. It was given to both services. The reverse of the medal is inscribed BRITISH MUSEUM.
606. Ashantee War, 1873—1874. Obv. Head of Queen l., veiled, wearing coronet. VICTORIA REGINA. L. C. WYON. Rev. Battle scene in bush; in centre, tree, on right of which are negroes fighting or wounded; on left, British soldiers advancing firing, one fallen. Silver. Size 1·4. By L. C. Wyon. Ribbon, alternate stripes of yellow and black.
This medal carries a clasp for COOMASSIE, and was issued to both services. The obverse is the work of Leonard C. Wyon, and the reverse from a design by E. J. Poynter, R.A. It was given for services in the Ashantee War 1873—4, Sir Garnet Wolseley Commander-in-chief. This is a proof.
HON. EAST INDIA COMPANY'S SERVICE MEDALS.
607. Campaign in West of India, 1784. Obv. Britannia seated r., on arms, holding wreath and spear; fortress in the distance; at her side, shield. Rev. Inscription in Persian: "Presented by the Calcutta Government in memory of good service and intrepid valour A.D. 1784. Mahommedan Era 1199;" and "Like this coin, may it endure long in the world, and the exertions of those lion-hearted Englishmen of great name, victorious from Hindostan to the Deccan, become exalted." Silver. Size 1·6.
This medal was awarded to the Company's troops for services performed in the First Mahratta War, and the Second Mysore War with Hyder 'Alee 1778—1784. It was struck in two sizes, the larger having been awarded to officers only.
608. Another. Same: but of smaller size. Silver. Size 1·25.