It was a full house at Stanley Gibbons Baldwin’s auction house, which was thrilled to host an exclusive evening with Medals & Militaria expert Mark Smith, who frequently appears on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow. He captivated his audience at this special evening, where enthusiasts were invited to step into history at the SGB headquarters at 399 Strand, as part of Mark’s 2025 UK tour, “For Valour: The Story of the Victoria Cross.”
During the event, history was truly brought to life as Mark delved into the origins of the Victoria Cross, debunking long-standing myths. He also shared jaw-dropping stories of the extraordinary heroes who earned this prestigious honour. For those lucky enough to attend, this was an unforgettable journey through courage, sacrifice, and history.
A globally recognised authority, Mark is acknowledged worldwide as a leading expert on the Victoria Cross – Britain’s highest award for bravery. He has authored five books on the Great War and contributed to numerous publications and magazines, cementing his place as a respected voice in military history. As a member of both the Western Front Association and the Orders and Medals Research Society, he continues to shape the field of military history and medal research.
Beyond Antiques Roadshow, Mark has featured on numerous television programs, including Deep Wreck Mysteries, Who Do You Think You Are? Bargain Hunt, The One Show, and BBC Breakfast, making him a familiar face to millions of viewers. And his expertise extends to radio, where he is a regular guest on the British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS), and podcasts for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, sharing his insights with military history enthusiasts worldwide.
Mark’s live presentation, “For Valour: The Story of the Victoria Cross,” offers audiences a chance to delve into the origins of this prestigious award and hear the astonishing stories of those who received Britain’s highest military honour.