At the end of this month, Morton and Eden are holding one of their celebrated medal sales. Whilst they hold fewer than some of the other specialist and major auction houses, Morton and Eden usually impress, and their summer sale broke records with an extraordinary Order of St Andrew from Russia.
This time however, the lot which has attracted headlines in the run-up to the auction is due to its recency: the award was presented in the 21st century and the owner is still alive.
The Iraq Military Cross Pair awarded to Private Ryan John Copping (pictured), 1st Battalion Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment. Alongside the MC itself is an Iraq Medal marked 2003. They are in extremely fine condition.
The Military Cross was awarded for Copping's actions in continuing to fire from the open hatch of his vehicle despite intense fire from the enemy.
 Military Cross pair |
His citation notes, "Private Copping has demonstrated a near complete disregard for his own safety in order to do what he believed to be the act needed to ensure the vehicle, platoon and operation did not become bogged down.
"Despite very real and obvious danger he put second his own safety for the sake of his team and loyalty to what he knew was right."
Copping is hoping that the pair will sell for up to £22,000, and they will be worth more than that as an investment in some years time. Other medals sets in the sale that we should mention, especially as Morton and Eden have been so successful at attracting Russian collectors are a selection of Russian Orders, Medals And Decorations from Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham.
 Order of St Alexander Nevsky |
Chief amongst these are two variation of the Order of St Alexander Nevsky: Firstly, a privately-made 'black' sash badge, in gold and enamels in the form of a Maltese cross with dark red enamel gold-framed limbs of flat section.
Secondly there is a jewelled set of insignia, unmarked, comprising: sash badge, in gold and enamels, set with silver mounted pastes and replacement pastes and other stones. These are estimated at up to £40,000 and up to £60,000 respectively in the sale, which takes place in London on November 30.
Medal collectors will also be interested to know that this rare collection of medals belonging to Private Francis Fitzpatrick's is currently available.
- Learn how you can get pleasure and profit from rare gallantry medals
- Click here for all the latest Medals & Militaria news
Join our readers in over 200 countries around the world - sign up for your free weekly Collectibles Newsletter today
