Private John Trickett pictured in his army uniform during the First World War, shown with the penny that saved his life – £4500 at Hansons.
A collection of First World War memorabilia relating to British army Private John Trickett – including an 1889 copper penny apparently bent when a bullet hit his breast pocket – brought a multi-estimate sum at Hansons (20% buyer’s premium) of Etwall on March 22.
Stories abound of, for example, lucky bibles and cigarette cases which deflect bullets. Some of them are possibly tall tales but multiple bidders were convinced by the narrative provided by Hansons’ vendor. Estimated at £100-200, the lot sold at £4500.