World War 2 Commander's medals set to fetch tens of thousands at auction

A set of medals belonging to a Second World War commander - who later commanded Biggin Hill - are expected to fetch tens of thousands of pounds when they are auctioned at Sworders Fine Art Auctioneers.

Jamie Rankin was one of the most respected leaders in fighter command during the war, and was awarded a Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and a Distinguished Flying Cross.

Sworders expect the collection to make at least £60-£70k – but the medals could be worth as much as £400k.

As well as the medals Sworders will also be selling photo albums and notes from Rankin’s wife Frances, newspaper cuttings and a German Luftwaffe Pilot’s wrist compass presented to him by a German pilot he shot down.

Sworders director John Black said: “This group of medals and accompanying documents are an important piece of history, not just because they record the contribution of such a highly significant figure, but because they also shed light on the conditions under which Rankin and his men had to operate, helping to bring their experiences to life for subsequent generations.”