Golden Treasure Leads Strong Militaria, Medals & Coins Sale...
24th November 2025
Lawrences Autumn Militaria, Medals & Coins Auction proved to be a vibrant three-day celebration of history and collecting passion. With more than two thousand lots spread across the sale, bidders were met with a remarkable breadth of militaria, medals, weapons, and numismatic gems.
Heading the sale was an item that had drawn global interest even before the auction opened, a Chinese gold sycee ingot recovered from the wreck of the Geldermalsen, the Dutch East India Company ship lost in 1752. One of only 124 bars salvaged during the discovery of the Nanking Cargo, this 367.8g ingot, still housed in its original Christie's velvet-lined box, carried with it all the romance of maritime trade and lost treasure.
The bar was bought for £37,500 (including buyers premium), a strong and fitting result for such an extraordinary journey from 18th-century China to our Crewkerne saleroom.
While the gold bar shone brightest, the auction was notable for its depth across every section. Collectors were met with one of the most expansive selections of cap and enamel badges ever offered by Lawrences, alongside a wide spread of military equipment, arms, uniforms, and regimental material.
In the medals category, one standout lot was the fascinating duo awarded to Commander Richard Curry, R.N. - a Naval General Service Medal with the coveted Egypt clasp, paired with a Sultan's Medal for Egypt (2nd Class). Curry's long and adventurous service record reads almost like a naval novel, from bombarding Aboukir Castle to harrowing engagements along the Nile, rescuing crews under fire, and earning the thanks of Parliament twice.
His medals estimated at £3,000, captured bidders imaginations and ultimately achieved £16,250 (including BP), a highlight that underlined the appetite for rare and well-documented naval history.
Collectors of numismatics were treated to a range of expertly curated coins, including the ever-popular Victorian Gothic Crown. Two elegant silver swords from a prominent private collection also attracted attention, rounding out a fantastic sale.
Across all three days, the tone was one of consistent, enthusiastic bidding. From entry-level treasures to specialist rarities, the auction drew strong engagement across the board, confirming a robust market for militaria, medals, and coins. It has been very rewarding with the depth and diversity represented in this year's offering. And already, we are happy to invite you to consign to our next. Get in touch with Matthew who is keen to help with any of your enquiries.
