A RARE artefact from one of the most famous battles in European history will be sold by a Perth couple this weekend for charity.
The rare Waterloo medal has been in George Draffen’s family for more than 180 years.
It was presented to his ancestor Sergeant James Draffen, of the 2nd Battalion Grenadier Guards, after the battle in 1815.
Mr Draffen and his wife Lesley are auctioning the heirloom to raise money for forces charity Help for Heroes.
The organisation helped their son Charles recover after he was injured in Canada two years ago while on manoeuvres with the Royal Regiment of Scotland.
Mrs Draffen said: “Both my son and daughter-in-law Katie, have served in Iraq, and when Charles was injured a few years ago, my husband and I were extremely grateful for the help and support he received during his time in hospital.
“We always wanted to do something to support the Help for Heroes charity, and when the medal was passed to us following the death of George's mother-in-law in February this year, we thought this would be the most fitting way to help the charity. It’s sad that it will be leaving the family but it is for a very worthy cause.”
The award was the first true campaign medal and was issued to all ranks who fought in the battles of Waterloo, Ligny and Quatre Bras.
It is expected to sell for between £2,500 and £3,500 when it goes under the hammer at McTear’s Auctioneers in Glasgow on Saturday.
John White, valuer at McTear's, said: “There is no doubt this is a very rare medal and the history behind the piece gives the item added significance.
“Mr and Mrs Draffen are making a remarkable gesture in their donation to the Help for Heroes charity and I’m sure the piece will give a significant boost to the cause when it goes up for auction.”