New Zealand. A Second War Memorial Cross to Pte. A.J.V. Coventry, KIA 1941

A Memorial Cross, in silver, full size, GVIR cypher, reverse impressed 40277 PTE. A.J.V. COVENTRY, 6 o’clock arm marked STERLING, worn on a full length purple neck ribbon, light wear, extremely fine. 

Accompanied by a Services Rendered pin, reverse numbered N.Z 8463, contained in the original case of issue, black leatherette exterior and silk/velvet interior, remains very fine. 
Footnote: Athol James Vincent Coventry served with the 25th Battalion, New Zealand Infantry during the Second War. He was killed in action on December 1, 1941, at the age of 29, while serving in Libya. Athol Coventry was the son of James Bishop Coventry and Annie Coventry, of Wellington, New Zealand; husband of Margaret Jane Coventry, of Wellington.

In December 1941, the 25th Battalion, New Zealand Infantry—part of the 2nd New Zealand Division—was operating in Libya during Operation Crusader. After heavy fighting in November, the battalion spent much of December regrouping and advancing westward, following the Axis retreat led by Erwin Rommel. They helped secure areas after the relief of Tobruk, with duties mainly consisting of movement, patrols, and consolidation rather than major battles.