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Auction: 25111 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 99

Ashantee 1873-74, 1 clasp, Coomassie (J.P. Westmuckett. A.B., H.M.S, Active, 73-74.), contact marks and edge bruise, very fine

One of 116 Coomassie clasps awarded to Active.

John Pace Westmuckett was born at Alverstoke, Hampshire on 8 July 1853 and enlisted with the Royal Navy on 8 July 1871. He was serving as Able Seaman with Excellent on 1 January 1873, being posted to Active on 3 October. Just five days later while the ship was still docked at Portsmouth two marines murdered the Master-at-Arms over a £3 debt.

Active was posted to Africa later in the month and by November she was blockading the Volta river. She contributed the largest portion of men to the Naval Brigade, including Westmuckett who was present for the fall of Coomassie. Promoted to Leading Seaman following the campaign in May 1874 he was further advanced Petty Officer, leaving Active on 12 September 1876.

Westmuckett was promoted Chief Petty Officer and Gunner's Mate while ashore in 1886. He remained in that role, largely ashore, until 31 March 1897 when he was finally shore pensioned; sold together with copied research.

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Sold for
£200

Starting price
£140