Extremely Rare Circa 1890s 21st Lancers Officer Helmet Plate in Silver and Gilt Brass

ARTIFACT: This is an extremely rare circa 1890s helmet plate for the 21st Lancers, a British Army cavalry regiment also known as the "Empress of India's". Formed in India around the Crimean War period, the 21st was originally known as the 3rd Bengal Light European Cavalry. After assuming the name 21st Regiment of Hussars, they were again redubbed "21st Lancers" in 1897, taking their new name from Queen Victoria, Empress of India. The 21st combined with the 17th Lancers in 1922. The 21st is known best for its participation in the 1898 defeat of the Sudanese at the Battle of Omdurman. Although not a member of the 21st, Winston Churchill accompanied the regiment on this campaign as a young officer (of the 4th Hussars). The beautiful helmet plate is in gilt brass with a background of golden rays and a large affixed insignia entirely in silver. The helmet plate was once a part of the collection of the late Mr. Walter Lambert, former Chairman of the Crown Imperial Historical Society. It has been rated by many field experts as having a 9-10 for condition, and was appraised by Mr. Graham Lay of the BBC Antiques Roadshow. The plate comes with supporting paperwork from the Chairman of the Regimental Band Association, 17th/21st Lancers, a previous owner of the plate through a connoisseur sale by the BBC.

VINTAGE: Circa 1890s.

SIZE: Approximately 4-3/4" in height and 6-3/4" in width.

MATERIALS / CONSTRUCTION: Silver, gilt brass.

ATTACHMENT: Brads, small holes.

MARKINGS: None.

ITEM NOTES: This is from a 19th century Great Britain and Commonwealth collection that we will be listing more of over the next few months. CON-JMB-MAEJJX14 LBBGEX3/14 RET5/14

CONDITION: 9+ (Near Mint-): The plate is near mint.