William Cosgrove

Staff Sergeant William Cosgrove VC MSM was an Irish recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. He served in the British Army as a member of the Royal Munster Fusiliers and achieved distinction during the Gallipoli landings in the First World War.

Cosgrove was also awarded the Meritorious Service Medal during his career. His highly decorated service made his medal group a significant piece of military history, attracting substantial attention in numismatic circles long after his service ended.

In 2006, his Victoria Cross, alongside his other service medals, was sold at a high-profile auction. The group of six medals, representing his historic actions during the Gallipoli campaign, fetched a record price of £180,000, reflecting the profound bravery and legacy associated with his military career.