RSA hopes Upham's medals can stay in NZ

Charles Upham

The Returned Services Association says it would be saddened if war hero Charles Upham's medals were to be sold offshore, and hopes a compromise can be found to keep the decorations in New Zealand.

The Government has rejected an offer from Captain Upham's family for the sale of the medals, saying it would not be appropriate for the taxpayer to meet their $3.3 million asking price. Captain Upham's family have said they did not ask for $3.3 million from the Government, noting an overseas foundation was to be a party to the proposed deal.

RSA national president John Campbell said Victoria Crosses were treasured medals and Captain Uphams even more so, being one of just three double VCs.

"We would be extremely disappointed if they went offshore and were not available to be viewed by the public, particularly future generations who could see the medals and understand what they symbolise."

However, Mr Campbell said the medals were the property of the family and many veterans would understand they might have good reason for wanting to sell them.

"It's a difficult one for the RSA because we have a desire for them to remain in this country, but on the other hand we understand the difficult position the family now faces, and after all, they are the family of Charles Upham," Mr Campbell said.

"The dream scenario would be to meet the needs of both the family and the nation."

If the RSA had spare funds it would play a role in trying to keep the medals in New Zealand, but its money was directed to the welfare of its members, Mr Campbell said.

Military historian Glyn Harper said a $3.3 million price was not inconceivable for a medal of such rare distinction as Captain Upham's VC and bar.

"My understanding of the Antiquities Act [which governs the sale of New Zealand's heirlooms] is that it probably won't be available for overseas, but it would still be a tragedy were it to fall outside of a public institution."

The family would come under constant pressure to sell medals as rare as Captain Upham's VC and bar, Mr Harper - who with Colin Richardson has written a history of New Zealand Victoria Cross winners - said.

"They are very valuable, so I can see their [the family's] point of view.

"Having said that though, I think it's always a bit sad when people sell part of their family history, and this is also an important part of New Zealand's military heritage."

Mr Harper said it was not unknown for New Zealand Victoria Crosses to be sold, with a World War I medal won at the Somme fetching $20,900 in 1982.

The world record auction price for a set of medals is believed to be £241,500 ($680,000), although Mr Harper said he had heard of VCs being sold privately for £300,000.

"There are only 1353 VCs ever made, and when you think that's for conflicts since 1856 for the entire British Commonwealth, and of that there are only three double VCs, it is an extremely rare decoration."

Captain Upham's daughter, Virginia Mackenzie, has said her father had turned down an offer of US$1 million for his medals in 1984 - worth NZ$8-$9 million today.