China 1842 (Wm. Martin, Actg. Gunner, H.M.S. Plover.) original suspension, a few marks, otherwise nearly extremely fine £500-£600

William Martin joined the Navy aboard Druid in March 1826, as an Ordinary Seaman, giving his trade before joining as the ‘Sea’. He then served as an Able Seaman in Hyacinth, November 1829 to December 1832; Sailmaker’s Mate in Rhadamanthus, January 1833 to April 1835; Able Seaman in Impregnable, July 1835 to January 1836; Sailmaker in Racer, June 1836 to June 1838; Gunner’s Mate (Seaman Gunner) in Excellent, August 1838 to May 1839; and as Gunners Mate in Childers, 7 May 1839 to 17 May 1841, when he was discharged to H.M. Brig Lady William Bentinck ‘on promotion’ - presumably to Acting Gunner. This was the day before Plover (ex Bentinck) seems to have been commissioned. Plover was a survey cutter and served in the First China War under Commander Richard Collinson, who had been appointed ‘surveying officer of the Fleet’. Approximately 56 medals awarded to this vessel, Acting Gunner William Martin being the fourth most senior seaman officer on board (after Collinson, a Lieutenant and a Mate). Sold with research.