Description
Indian Mutiny Medal, 3 bars, Lucknow, Relief of Lucknow, Delhi, Private Dennis Riley, 9th Lancers, one of the famous Delhi Spearmen, a rare confirmed 3 bar medal.
Officially impressed: “DENs RILEY, 9th LANCERS”
All confirmed on the medal roll and service traced through muster and pay lists (Included digital copies of muster entries tracing career), one of only 319 medals of this combination issued to the 9th Lancers, only 332 to the entire British Army.
This was his only medal entitlement.
A well preserved example of a very rare medal, all looks to be the official domed riveting as issued to suspension and clasps, relatively minor signs of wear overall.
Private Denis or Dennis Riley, served with the 9th Lancers from 1853 to 1864, on a 10 year contract.
Born in Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland.
First signed up with the 9th Lancers on 30th October 1853.
About 27th November 1854 he first arrived at Kurrachie (Karachi) with his regiment for service in India.
Victorious after the Indian Mutiny, he returned home with the regiment, embarking at Calcutta on 29th April 1859 and disembarking at Southampton on 30th September 1859.
After arriving he home he saw further service in England at Exeter then mostly rounding out his service at Aldershot.
He was discharged having completed his terms of engagement in January 1864.
Possibly the most exceptional British Regiment to fight in the Indian Mutiny, they left with at least 12 Victoria Crosses, they earned their title as the Delhi Spearman for their fighting in the Siege of Delhi, this title was bestowed upon them by the Mutineers who met them in battle.
When they left India after the war they received the unique honour of a twenty one gun salute on their departure.
