Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 22103 - Orders, Decorations and Medals VII - e-Auction
Lot: 570

The Messina Earthquake group of three awarded to Assistant Steward C. W. Bevis, Merchant Navy who served aboard the S.S. Ophir

British War and Mercantile Marine Medals 1914-20 (Charles W. Bevis); Italy, Kingdom, silver, Messina Earthquake 1908 (C. W. Bevis R.M.S. "Ophir"), engraved naming, in its fitted case of issue, some contact wear overall and edge bruising to third (3)

Charles William Bevis was born at Richmond, Surrey in October 1883, the son of Charles and Anne Bevis of 35 Richmond Villa. Serving aboard the Ophir from 9 June 1908 Bevis was present when she steamed into the Italian Port of Messina to provide aid after the Earthquake on 28 December 1908. He later saw service on such vessels as the Laconia and Osterley, aboard which he saw war service. Bevis' final posting was aboard the Orama which he served on from 28 October 1932- 24 October 1935, this ill-fated vessel was destroyed by the Admiral Hipper some five years later on the return journey from Narvik; sold together with the recipient's discharge book, OHMS slip of issue and postcards relating to the Messina Earthquake and the Laconia, that latter with a message relating to the recipient's service as well as copied research including M.I.C., a newspaper article on the Messina Earthquake and information on the ships the recipient served aboard along with a service document dating to 1932 and handwritten research.

Subject to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium. For more information please view Terms and Conditions for Buyers.

Sold for
£900

Starting price
£100