United Kingdom. A Waterloo Medal to Private James Brian, 2nd Battalion, 73rd Highland Regiment

A Waterloo Medal, in silver, full size, naming officially impressed on the rim JAMES BRIAN, 2nd BATT. 73rd REG. FOOT., original steel clip and large iron ring, replacement ribbon, light contact marks, several edge bruises, in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: James Brian is present on the Waterloo Medal Roll within John Pike Latt Percht’s Company in the 2nd Battalion, 73rd Regiment of Foot. 

Captain John Pike’s Company of the 2nd Battalion, 73rd Regiment of Foot (Perthshire) played a pivotal frontline role at the Battle of Waterloo on June 18, 1815. Positioned as part of Major-General Halkett’s Brigade in Wellington’s 3rd Division, Pike’s company was caught in the regiment’s dramatic cavalry engagements and withstood no fewer than eleven mounted charges by French cavalry, all while under intense artillery bombardment. They successfully formed a square and held firm—remarkably, the 73rd Foot sustained the second highest casualties among line infantry regiments, with 6 officers and 225 men killed or wounded. Their steadfast discipline under repeated assaults was instrumental in ensuring the brigade held its ground during one of Napoleon’s fiercest cavalry offensives.