While we are trading stories, I'll mention a friend who bought from the UK a group of three Victorian miniatures, two of which were named.
The dealer couldn't tell him anything about the recipient and told him that the "PRs STAFF" on the medals was probably "personal staff" and the owner had no doubt been some flunky to an officer.
I became intrigued and found that it was "Purveyors Staff" and the chap was very well known in Masonic circles and also well-regarded for his service in the Crimea.
I was even able to locate a photo for the owner. This has helped me in many ways add to my random collection as he assures me he would never have had the persistence to look! You do someone a favour and the good guys never forget....
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