Noonans

Coinex, the most important event on the British calendar for many serious coin collectors, opens at the Biltmore Hotel in Mayfair on September 27-28.

Wars are full of renowned acts of bravery in the face of the enemy but medals also salute the feats of many unsung military heroes who often go under the radar in recognition terms.

A gold and diamond ring made by the architect turned goldsmith Louis Osman (1914-96) has gone on public display at the Northamptonshire home where he lived, worked and drew inspiration for more than a decade.

Noonans’ (24% buyer’s premium) sale in London on July 17 offered a rare Carpathia and Titanic bronze medal.

Metal-detecting finds often prove valuable both in terms of heritage and a healthy sum at auction.

“Siege notes are a niche but popular subsidiary of military banknote collecting,” says Andrew Pattison, head of the Banknotes Department at Noonans (24% buyer’s premium).

George Medals were awarded to military recipients for bravery not in the face of the enemy, so bomb or mine disposal is a classic reason.

Mayfair auction house builds on an excellent performance last year with stand-out results at the start of 2024

Noonans was the dominant player in the London coins and medals auction market in 2023 with a market share of almost 32%, ATG’s exclusive annual special report reveals.

The best-selling gallantry medal of 2023 was offered at Noonans late in the year on December 6. The Naval Victoria Cross awarded to Seaman James Gorman at the Battle of Inkerman sold for a hammer price of £320,000 (plus 24% buyer’s premium) and now forms part of a private collection of Crimean War medals.

This Iraq specimen banknote printed in India during the Second World War sold for £100,000 plus 24% buyer’s premium at Noonans on November 29-30. It was purchased by a lifetime collector or Iraqi banknotes at double the low estimate.

Total sales across London coin and medals auctions were £61.6m in 2023, just a fraction down on 2022’s record aggregate