Abyssinian War Medal 1867-8

Obverse: Small bust of Queen Victoria in a diadem and veil (left) surrounded by a band of nine foliated triangles and between each, letters forming the word 'ABYSSINIA'. Reverse: inscription within a laurel wreath and pearl ring: '125 SGT PATRICK MORGAN 5 BATT. 25TH BDE RA'. Suspended from the Imperial crown and ring by a red ribbon edged with white.

Awarded to Sergeant Patrick Morgan 5 Battery, 25th Brigade, Royal Artillery.

After the Indian Mutiny, the East India Company was abolished and its armed forces incorporated into the regular British army. The HEIC had three artillery regiments and their European officers and men joined the Royal Artillery, 125 Brigade was formed from the regiment of the Bengal Presidency. They were a garrison brigade and during the Abyssinian War they guarded the British camp at Antalo near the coast, rather than joining the advance on the fortress of Magdala.