HMS Victory medalet, 1905.

This small "Victory" medallion was given to everyone subscribing one shilling...... (NOT exactly "peanuts" back in 1905, when an OUNCE of GOLD was US$18.00)

This is a RARE version of the 17mm medalet showing the port broadside on the obverse.

The reverse has the wording: 'From BFSS Nelson Centenary containing Victory copper E.R VII'

Diameter 17mm.

Some of these medallions seem to have been gilded originally. Others now show an oxide patina.

Much of the Copper was from the external hull lining which both PROTECTED British Naval ships from the Toredo worm that had been accidentally imported from the tropics to Europe in infected vessels, but ALSO gave the Royal Navy an EDGE of greater SPEED due to the greatly reduced "fouling" of the ship's hull with drag-inducing weeds, barnacles, & molluscs, which were less-inclined to attach themselves to yucky Copper & were more readily cleaned-away

In 1905 the B.F.S.S. (British & Foreign Sailor's Society) was instrumental in the program of events for the Nelson Centennial.

A fund was set up known as 'The Nelson Centenary Memorial Fund' and the King, who took a great interest in the Society, allowed his initials, E.R. VII, to be stamped on the souvenirs.

The subscribers to the fund were able to acquire medals and badges, amongst other items, for the donations and collections.

The larger medals/badges were given for 5 shillings and upwards, the small Victory charm (16.5mm) to everyone sending 1 shilling (=5p) and upwards.

Provision was also made for a Victory Shield (for £5. 5s., five guineas, now £5.25) for schools to award annually to a boy or girl for success.

Copper was also used to make Nelson busts which were available for donations of £50.

The remaining copper from H.M.S. FOUDROYANT was also acquired and used to provide HMS Victory souvenirs for the boys and girls of the Empire.