Medal: Victoria Cross

Maker
Hancock Mint, London
Production date
1917
 Description
One Victoria Cross medal with magenta ribbon in black case lined with blue textile.
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Object Detail

Maker
Production place
London/England
Collecting unit
Medals and Decorations
Numismatics
Decorative Arts
Production role
Maker
Provenance details
Awarded to Private Henry James Nicholas, 12th Nelson Company, 1 Battalion (Canterbury Regiment), for gallantry on 3 December 1917 at Polderhoek, Belgium.: Sgt Henry Nicholas: 03 December 1917
Measurements
Diameter: whole: 36mm
Thickness: 2.5mm
Dimensions (h x w): whole: 39 x 91mm
Named collection
Henry James Nicholas VC collection
Associated person
Associated notes
"For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty, in attack [at Polderhoek, Belgium, on 3 December 1917]. Private Nicholas, who was one of a Lewis-gun section, had orders to form a defensive flank to the right of the advance, which was subsequently checked by heavy machine-gun and rifle fire from an enemy strong point. Whereupon, followed by the remainder of his section at an interval of about 25 yards, Private Nicholas rushed forward alone, shot the officer in command of the strongpoint, and overcame the remainder of the garrison of sixteen by means of bombs and bayonet, capturing four wounded prisoners and a machine gun. He captured the strongpoint practically single-handed and thereby saved many casualties. Subsequently, when the advance had reached its limit, Private Nicholas collected ammunition under heavy machine-gun and rifle fire. His exceptional valour and coolness throughout the operations afforded an inspiring example to all." (London Gazette, 8 January 1918).
Current rights
Creative Commons - CC BY-NC
Current rights code
Creative Commons - CC BY-NC
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Other Id
79/32
Med1995.75
Catalogue number
Med1995.75
Accession number
1932.79.1
Marks and Inscriptions
Marks/Inscriptions: 24213 Pte. H.J. Nicholas 1st Bn Canterbury R. N.Z. Force; Type of mark: Inscription; Method: Engraved; Notes: reverse
Marks/Inscriptions: 3./Dec./1917.; Type of mark: Inscription; Method: Engraved; Notes: reverse, in centre of Cross
Marks/Inscriptions: For Valour; Type of mark: Legend; Method: Struck; Notes: obverse

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