Rare "Victoria Cross" copper mould

A rare, Victorian copper mould with a Victoria Cross design to the top. The Victoria Cross is the highest award of the British honours system and it is awarded for valour. It was introduced by Queen Victoria in 1856 to honour acts of valour during the Crimean War. Moulds displaying this design are rare. This example is stamped with the orb and cross symbol used by Benhams above the pattern number ’583’. However, over the orb and cross it is also stamped “TEMPLE  & CROOK  ST. S.W.”. To the opposite side is a workman’s mark in the shape of a heart. The mould would have been manufactured by Benham for retail by Temple and Crook and it dates from c.1880. The design is very well detailed and is a true representation of the medal except that it lacks the wording ‘for valour’ in the ribbon under the crown. The mould is in excellent condition but the tinning to the interior is worn.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Dimensions: Diameter 13.2cm. Height 9cm.Price includes postage within the U.K., shipping to the U.S.A.