
A superb and historically important Edwardian sterling silver shooting trophy, awarded to Sgt W. Anderson of the London Scottish for his performance in the St George's Competition at Bisley in 1902.
Hallmarked London, 1902 by Elkington & Co Ltd, one of Britain's premier makers of regimental presentation silver. This is a beautiful piece of early 20th-century military heritage, connecting the Volunteer era, the famous London Scottish regiment, and one of the great competitions of the NRA's Imperial Meeting. Solid sterling silver trophy beaker.Maker: Elkington & Co Ltd. Winner of the 161st Prize in the St George's Comp. Decorated with finely cast applied figures of an archer and a rifleman, standing above the Latin motto SIT PERPETUUM ("Let it endure forever). Interior clean and bright; displays beautifully.
Historical Significance The London Scottish, 1902 At the turn of the century the London Scottish were one of the most respected Volunteer regiments in Britain. Fresh from service in the Boer War, they prided themselves on discipline, sharp shooting and competitive excellence. Regimental marksmen were celebrated, and silver trophies like this were awarded only for notable achievements. St George's Competition, Bisley Part of the NRA's Imperial Meeting, the St George's was (and still is) one of the premier long-range rifle events in the UK.With hundreds of entrants, the 161st Prize represented a commendable place on a very long and competitive prize list - only skilled shooters made it onto it at all. A Living Tradition Remarkably, the St George's Competition continues to this day at Bisley, making this trophy part of an unbroken shooting heritage stretching back over 120 years. The Recipient - Sgt W. Anderson of the London Scottish later appears in WW1 medal rolls as a recipient of the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal - exactly the career path expected of a pre-war Volunteer NCO and accomplished marksman.
While not confirmed, it is highly likely this is the same man. Excellent overall shine and presentation. Crisp Repoussé figures and clear hallmarks.
Some small dings to the base, which remain slightly visible when the beaker is standing (see photos). No dents to the body; displays very well A handsome and honest example of early regimental silver. A Rare Collectors' Piece This trophy sits at the intersection of three highly collectible areas. Bisley / NRA shooting memorabilia. Early Edwardian Elkington presentation pieces Scarce, evocative, and rich in story.
Ideal for collectors of military silver, shooting heritage, or London Scottish history.