Commemorative Medal for the Battle of Waterloo, Pewter, ‘Napoleon Le Grand’, Gayrad F, Palmers Museum, London, rough casting on reverse, crack at suspension hole, otherwise very fine £40-£50

Opened in November 1815 by a Mr. Palmer, the Waterloo Museum was located at 97 Pall Mall, London. It was one of a number of London establishments targeting public interest in the Battle of Waterloo, earlier that year. Retired soldiers and men who had lost limbs at Waterloo were employed as staff, creating a direct link with the battle and a sense of authenticity. It also drew on the feeling of benevolence towards those wounded during the battle. The public euphoria around the victory at Waterloo positively changed the general view of the military.