Samana 1891 Clasp – Original

Manufactured in silver, this original “Samana 1891” clasp was awarded to officers and men of the British Army, Indian Army, and associated forces who took part in operations on the Samana Range during 1891. The clasp was fitted to the ribbon of the India General Service Medal (1854), recognising participation in one of the many frontier expeditions undertaken by British and Indian forces during the late Victorian period.

The Samana 1891 campaign formed part of Britain’s continuing efforts to secure the North West Frontier of British India, an area characterised by rugged mountainous terrain, independent tribal communities, and frequent conflict. Operations were conducted against local tribes following disturbances and attacks affecting British positions and communications in the region.

British and Indian troops operating on the Samana Range faced the familiar challenges of frontier warfare, including difficult terrain, isolated posts, limited supply routes, and determined resistance from tribal forces. These operations involved infantry, cavalry, artillery, and support units accustomed to campaigning in some of the most demanding environments of the British Empire.

The India General Service Medal (1854) was issued for a wide variety of campaigns across the Indian subcontinent, with clasps identifying the specific operations for which recipients qualified. The Samana 1891 clasp is one of the more specialised frontier clasps from the series and remains of considerable interest to collectors of Victorian campaign medals, British Indian Army history, and North West Frontier memorabilia.

Original clasps from the India General Service Medal series are highly sought after by collectors, both as individual pieces for restoration projects and as examples of the extensive military activity undertaken on India’s frontier during the nineteenth century.

Manufactured in silver and retaining its original construction, this example represents an authentic and collectable piece of Victorian campaign medal history.

Dimensions

Approx. 37mm × 13mm

Condition

Good overall original condition, with crisp lettering and an attractive age-related silver patina. Light wear, minor surface marks, and signs of handling consistent with age may be present. An excellent original example of a desirable India General Service Medal campaign clasp.