'˜Strong' month for military items at Kenilworth auctioneers

And a valuation day will now be held on Thursday April 13 at Hansons Auctioneers based at St Francis of Assisi Church in Warwick Road from 10am to 4pm off the back of this success.

A spokesman for Hansons said: “Once again, this sector of the antiques and collectors market has remained buoyant.

“Demand for medals from both the First and Second World War remain very strong and collectors are always looking for items which are fresh to the market.”

In particular, gallantry medals such as the Military Cross and the Military Medal old well. A First World War Military Cross in a group of medals sold for £1,500, while a First World War Military Medal alone achieved £290. 

Campaign medals were also popular - a Crimea Medal sold for £480.

The market for swords and bayonets remained strong. Two Japanese swords attracted bids of £850 and £450 respectively.

And a scarce Second World War British ‘Commando’ fighting knife sold for £550.

Adrian Stevenson, head of the coin, medal and militaria Department is now inviting entries for Hansons next specialist sale which takes place on Tuesday August 22. Entries are invited until Saturday August 5.