Medals of Wellington-era officer sold at auction

The medals are expected to fetch up to £1,500

A snuff box and medals awarded to a man who served in the Napoleonic Wars under Wellington fetched £3,400 at auction.

Sgt Maj William Livsey, whose descendants live in Banbury, Oxfordshire, fought in the Peninsular War more than two centuries ago.

The engraved, silver snuff box sold for £1,900 at Hansons, more than £900 higher than the expected price.

The medals, offered with copies of the serviceman's discharge papers, sold for £1,500.

Both lots were bought on Saturday by a private UK buyer. The total paid, with buyer's premium, was £4,683.

An inscription on the box reads: "Presented August 29th 1856 to Sgt-Major William Livsey, by the Officers and Men of The West Essex Yeomanry Artillery for his meritorious services in bringing that Corps to its present efficiency."

The commanding officer's descendants have decided to part with the heirlooms

The pair of medals are dated 1793-1814.

One marks the serviceman's participation in the Pensinsular conflict in Tolouse, Orthes, Pyrennes, Vittoria and Albuhera.

The other is a medal for long service and good conduct.

The Peninsular War was fought in the Iberian Peninsula by Spain, Portugal and the UK against the invading and occupying forces of the First French Empire during the Napoleonic Wars.

Hansons said Sgt Maj Livsey's descendants had decided the time was right to part with the heirlooms.

Auctioneer Jasper Marsh said: "It's a wonderful historical find made on our doorstep.

"It reminds us of the gallantry of a man who proudly served our country two centuries ago under Wellington, a renowned military leader.

"Historical treasures like this are part of Britain's heritage."

Follow BBC South on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail].