Hamilton Bantock Collection | Railwayana & Medals Auction

The Hamilton Bantock Collection – Railwayana, Model Railways & Police Medals at Auction

Griffin's Auctioneers is delighted to present the Hamilton Bantock Collection in our 17th November 2026 auction. This interesting private collection brings together an exceptional range of railwayana, fine-scale model railway locomotives, police medals, militaria and railway collectables, offering collectors and enthusiasts a fascinating opportunity to acquire items with historical interest.

Hamilton G. F. Bantock (1904–1974) was the son of Sir Granville Bantock, the renowned composer and conductor of the City of Birmingham Orchestra.

Known as 'Ham', he served in the Second World War and later became Chief Detective Inspector of Police at the Police Training School in Stafford.

Away from his police career, Hamilton was a keen rifleman and a member of both the Warwickshire Rifle Club and the National Rifle Club.

Having grown up within sight of the Midland Railway main line from Birmingham to Bristol, he developed a lifelong passion for railway history, particularly the Derby Works and its locomotive productions. This interest inspired him to construct a number of scratch-built model railway locomotives, mainly relating to the Midland Railway.

Fine-Scale Model Railway Locomotives & Railwayana

Hamilton Bantock's model railway locomotives were featured in the May 1976 edition of Railway Modeller magazine, and several of these fascinating models are to be offered in our forthcoming auction.

One of the highlights is a scratch-built O gauge fine-scale Midland Railway 0-10-0 Banking Engine, finished in black and offered without its tender. The locomotive is in excellent-plus condition and comes complete with a wooden carrying case.

This particular model was featured in the May 1976 edition of Railway Modeller. The accompanying article explains that 'Ham' was still working on the locomotive at the time of his death, with the tender remaining to be built. A copy of the original magazine article accompanies the model.

Police Medals, Decorations & Militaria

Hamilton Bantock's distinguished career in the police force is also represented in this collection through a selection of police medals and associated memorabilia.

Among the items offered are a George VI Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (Police LS&GC), awarded to Ch. Inspr. Hamilton G. F. Bantock, in its original box of issue.

Also included is a Second World War Defence Medal, in its original box of issue and addressed to 'Insp. H. G. F. Bantock, No. 4 District Police Training Centre, Nr Eccleshall, Staffs', together with miniature versions of the Defence Medal and Police LS&GC.

These interesting pieces of police memorabilia and Second World War medal collecting offer an insight into Hamilton Bantock's career and service.

Railway Collectables & Historic Railwayana

The collection also includes a variety of railwayana and historic railway collectables assembled by Hamilton Bantock.

Among these is a Webb & Thompson-style single-line electric train staff, marked 'TANYBWLCH A' and 'Br FESTINIOG'. Measuring 27cm in length, this interesting piece of railway signalling equipment is in very good condition.

The Hamilton Bantock Collection is being sold on behalf of the family, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire items from a fascinating private collection with connections to British railway history, model engineering and policing.

Buying & Selling Antiques at Griffin's Auctioneers

If you are interested in bidding on these lots, taking part in an auction at Griffin's Auctioneers couldn't be simpler. Whether you prefer to bid online, attend in person at our Warwick saleroom or arrange to view the lots before the sale, we aim to make buying at auction as straightforward and transparent as possible.

We hold regular antique and collectables auctions, featuring a wide variety of items, including coins, medals, militaria, banknotes, fine art, jewellery, silver, railwayana and much more.

If you would like to find out more about bidding at one of our forthcoming auctions, please visit our website for further information. Viewing of lots is available by appointment.

Free Antique Valuations & Auction Appraisals

If you have an antique, collectable or private collection that you are considering selling, Griffin's Auctioneers would be delighted to help.

Our specialists offer free valuations and home visits, with no charge or obligation. Whether you are looking to sell coins, medals, militaria, banknotes, fine art, jewellery, railwayana or any other antiques and collectables, we can offer friendly, professional advice on selling at auction.

For further information about our auction services, valuations and forthcoming sales, please visit our website or contact our Warwick saleroom on 01926 505 012 or email info@griffinsauctions.co.uk.