September 18-October 13, 2023 Timed internet Only Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/13/2023
A small but historically significant pair of medals that were awarded to Able Body Seaman William Edwin Barry, killed in action aboard the HMS Queen Mary during the Battle of Jutland. The medals consist of Barry's War Medal impressed "L.4-349 W.E. BARRY. A.B. R.N.V.R." and Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (First King George V version) impressed "4/349. W.E. BARRY, A.B. LONDON DIVN R.N.V.R.". HMS Queen Mary was the last battlecruiser built by the Royal Navy before the outbreak of World War I. She participated in the Battle of Heligoland Bight, the Raid on Scarborough, and the Battle of Jutland which resulted in an inconclusive result despite heavy casualties for the Royal Navy. The battle, which is one of the most notable naval engagements of the 20th century, needs no introduction as the results and logistics are still debated to this day. HMS Queen Mary and her crew fought valiantly during the battle and despite scoring several hits on German vessels, the ship was bombarded resulting in detonation of the forward magazines which broke her in two near the foremast. Further explosions shook the aft end of the ship as it began to roll over and sink. Out of the recorded crew of 1,284, 1,266 perished with 18 survivors pulled from the water. Barry was among those killed and was initially listed as "Believed to have been Lost" and later listed as "Killed" on 31 August 1916. Copies of Barry's records are included. CONDITION: Medals exhibit a light patina with scattered light marks.