Historical and Art Medals, Numismatic Books

London, South Kensington: International Exhibition, 1862, International Entertainment Committee, a cruciform silver-gilt badge, unsigned [by Sarl & Son], Britannia seated on clouds above terrestrial globe, surrounded by the flags of ten nations, back named (Robert Besley Esqre, Alderman, Edwd. Harrison Esqr. Deputy Chairman), 66 x 65mm (Allen 20). About extremely fine and extremely rare; with ornate swivel suspension, original blue ribbon and pin (£200-250)

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, Exhibition Medals in Gold and Silver from the Collection of James Spencer.

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Plate 3, obverse only. Robert Besley (1794-1876), born in Exeter, was apprenticed as a printer in his father’s shop. His brother managed the Devonshire Chronicle as a newspaper of West Country Liberalism. In 1820 Besley joined the firm of Messrs Thoregood, typefounders, in Fann Street, London, where he later became head. His other interests included being chairman of the Scarborough and Whitby Railway Co and chairman of Griffin’s Wharf. In 1854 he began his representation of the Aldersgate ward on the Common Council and from 1861 until his death he was Alderman. By 1864-5 he was Sheriff and in 1869-70, Lord Mayor. In between he was governor of the Stone lunatic asylum. He died at Victoria road, Wimbledon Park on 18 December 1876, and is buried at Battersea