Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

South Africa 1834-53 (J. Donaldson. 72nd Regt.) very fine and scarce £500-£700

Approximately 139 South Africa 1834-53 Medals awarded to the 72nd Regiment, all of whom served in the 1st Kaffir War 1834-35. Fewer than 400 medals in total were issued to Officers and men from the 27th, 72nd, and 75th Regiments, the only British units who fought during the 1st Kaffir War.

John Donaldson was born in the Parish of Ellon, Aberdeen, and attested for the 72nd Foot at Aberdeen on 25 March 1807, aged fourteen years. His service, after the age of 18 years, amounted to 26 years 223 days, of which twelve years served at the Cape of Good Hope, the remainder at Home. Despite various promotions and demotions, including four years as Sergeant and five years as Corporal, he was discharged in the rank of Private on 2 November 1837.

Sold with copied discharge papers.