Original British Victorian 1843 Gwalior Campaign Star with Ribbon named to Samuel Shears 9th Lancers Original Items

Original Item: One-of-a-kind. The Gwalior campaign was fought between the British and Maratha forces in Gwalior in India, December 1843. The Maratha Empire controlled much of central and northern India and had fallen to the British in 1818 giving the British control over almost all of the Indian subcontinent. The Maharaja of Gwalior had died and a young child was appointed as the Maharaja with British support.

However, Marathas in Gwalior saw the failed British campaign in Afghanistan as an opportunity to regain independence and removed the young Maharaja. Lord Ellenborough, foreseeing the possibility of the Marathas in Gwalior attempting independence had formed the Army of Exercise near Agra. After attempts to negotiate failed, the British advanced in a two-pronged attack. The British, under the command of Gen. Sir Hugh Gough clashed with Maratha forces, under the command of Maharaja Scindia, in two battles on the same day; 29 December 1843.

This is a very nice Gwalior campaign star, awarded during the action. The six-pointed, bronze Gwalior Campaign Star has the PUNNIAR / 19th DEC / 1843 silver inset. Reverse of the brass planchet is engraved in flowing script, Private Saml Shears H.M. 9th Lancers. Two squadrons of the 9th Lancers were present at the battle of Punniar on 29 December 1843. The original brass hook on the reverse has been replaced with a steel strap affixed with a two cut screws.

A German silver suspender with heavy loop is attached to the steel strap allowing the planchet hang from rainbow watered “military Ribbon India” in crimson, yellow, and blue. A collector had reinforced the ribbon with pasteboard for display. Details of obverse are sharp, but the silver inset is heavily worn.

A fantastic and rare medal with some great research potential, ready to display!