BRAVE BIRD

Known as the animals’ Victoria Cross, the PDSA Dickin Medal is a rarity and much in demand for collectors. This example was awarded to the Duke of Normandy cock pigeon for his role in the D-Day landings in Normandy on the 6th June 1944. Carrying vital intelligence, the pigeon flew back from France to his home in Shepherd’s Bush, a journey that took nearly 27 hours. Fittingly, in this year of VE celebrations, the medal fetched £27,280 at Dix Noonan Webb.