Original Item: One-of-a-kind. The Victoria Cross is the highest British military honor awarded for bravery and valor. This wonderful brass fully functional marching compass made by L. CASELLA, LONDON is held in a custom made leather case. The case is embossed:
R.S.M. J. Lee V.C.
The only recorded VC with initial j and surname Lee or Jee apparently both were used as seen at these links-
https://books.google/books?id=az1NAAAAcAAJ&pg=PA308&lpg=PA308&dq=%22Joseph+Lee%22+Victoria+Cross&source=bl&ots=nSpklflnDx&sig=6SuaqfgmezA3s74AjApxtURSrDw&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0CB4Q6AEwAGoVChMIkK2Tx-yUxwIVwz0-Ch04DgSn#v=onepage&q=%22Joseph%20Lee%22%20Victoria%20Cross&f=false
http://en.Wikipedia.Org/wiki/joseph_jee
Lee won the V.C. for actions during the relief of Lucknow 1857. Although recorded as being a surgeon general, this rank was not created till 1870, so it is presumed during his working life he was an R.S.M.
The leather case with details to one side and a patch repair to the other. Still has its closing strap and buckle. Made by respected London maker, L. Casella with serial number 2170 and W.D. Mark.