Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Three: Corporal William Swain, 77th Foot, late 10th Foot

Punjab 1848-49, 2 clasps, Mooltan, Goojerat (Drummer W. Swaine. 10th Foot.); Indian Mutiny 1857-59, 1 clasp, Lucknow (Drumr. W, Swain, 1st Batn. 10th Regt.); Army L.S. & G.C., V.R., small letter reverse (1036 Corpl. Wm. Swain, 77th Foot) fitted with silver ribbon buckle, the first two with edge bruising and contact marks, fine or better, the last nearly very fine (3) £800-900

William Swain was born at Poona on 19 August 1833, and was attested into the 40th Foot at Meerut on 19 August 1844, his eleventh birthday. He remained with the 40th Foot until 1 October 1845, when he volunteered to the 10th Foot as a Boy. He was appointed a Drummer on 1 September 1846, and served as an Under-age Drummer until 19 August 1851, when he became eighteen. In the meantime he had served at Mooltan and Goojerat as a 16-year-old Drummer (Medal with two clasps), and in the same capacity at the final capture of Lucknow in 1858 (Medal with clasp). In March 1862 he transferred to the 77th Foot as a Private, being appointed Drummer the following December. He was promoted to Corporal in December 1865 and received the L.S. & G.C. medal and £5 gratuity in April 1870. He was finally discharged on Pension on 21 June 1874. Sold with copied discharge papers which confirm all three medals.