A mounted group of dress miniature medals

A mounted group of dress miniature medals, comprising: Distinguished Service Order, China 1900 with Relief of Pekin clasp, 1914-15 Star, British War and Victory Medals (oak leaves), French Legion d'Honneur, French Croix de Guerre (palms), Messina Earthquake Commemorative Medal 1908, the presence of the latter indicating a Royal Naval recipient; together with a Memorial Plaque, WALTER EDWARD HAMLIN, in card envelope with commiseration slip. Good very fine or better.

The Messina earthquake of 1908 was a calamitous occurrence that all but destroyed the cities of Messina and Reggio, and caused vast loss of life. An international relief effort was lauched, and particular assistance was rendered by the war ships of various nations, including Great Britain, that were in the area at the time. King Victor Emmanuel III issued this medal as a reward to the personnel involved.

Walter Edward Hamlin, Machine Gun Corps (Motor), died in India, 10th October 1918.