Rare Victoria Cross Hits the Market – Could Leave UK
A Victoria Cross awarded to RAF Squadron Leader A.S.K. Scarf is set to be sold abroad for over £660,000, risking its departure from the UK. This ultra-rare medal was given to Scarf posthumously in 1946, alongside four other campaign medals. The VC was presented to his widow by King George VI at Buckingham Palace.
Only One of Its Kind for RAF in Far East Campaign
While the accompanying medals are common, the Victoria Cross is anything but. Since 1856, just 1,358 have been handed out, and only 181 during World War II. Of those, only 22 went to the RAF — with Scarf’s the sole VC awarded for service in the Far East.
Heroic Last Raid in Malaya
Scarf’s bravery shone during a daring daylight raid on Singora, Malaya, on 9 December 1941. After all other aircraft were destroyed or disabled shortly after takeoff, he pressed on solo. Under heavy attack, he completed his bombing run before crash-landing at Alor Star. Severely wounded, Scarf died two hours later. His pregnant nurse wife was evacuated south, unaware he’d been rushed to the same hospital.
His crew also earned honours: Sergeant Paddy Calder received a Distinguished Flying Medal, and Sergeant Cyril Rich was posthumously mentioned in Dispatches after dying in 1943.
Government Steps In to Keep the Medal in Britain
Arts Minister Stuart Andrew said, “Stories like these remind us of the sacrifices made during WW2 for the freedoms we enjoy.” He hopes a UK buyer emerges to keep the medal on home soil for future generations.
The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest (RCEWA) agrees. They called Scarf’s VC a “unique and significant element” of Britain’s lesser-known Far East campaign.
Tim Pestell of RCEWA said: “The Victoria Cross remains Britain’s ultimate symbol of combat bravery. This medal tells a powerful and poignant story — almost Boy’s Own — of fearless wartime determination. Its purchase by a UK institution would keep alive the memory of those who fought in the ‘forgotten war’ of the Far East.”
Export Licence Deferred – UK Buyers Have a Chance
The export licence decision is deferred until 27 January 2023, giving UK collectors or institutions time to step in. If interested parties match the recommended price of £660,000 (plus reclaimable VAT), the medal could stay in Britain.
After that, a three-month option period follows to finalise any UK purchase.
