'Private Robert Dunsire, V.C.'

Cigarette card, Number 92 of the 4th series of 'The Great War Victoria Cross Heroes', one of 8 sets of 25 cigarette cards, issued by Gallaher Limited, Belfast and London, 1915-1916.

On the obverse, a portrait of Lance Corporal Robert Anderson Dunshire (1891-1916), 13th Battalion, Royal Scots (Lothian Regiment), wearing his Victoria Cross. On the reverse a summary of the act of gallantry during the Battle of Loos that resulted in his award, 'Pte Robt Dunshire, V.C. (13th Batt. Royal Scots) won this honour for gallantly rescuing, on two occasions, comrades from between the firing lines at Hill 70, Sept 26th, 1915. In both cases he went out and carried the men in under fire, showing great devotion and courage.'.

Dunshire received his Victoria Cross from King George V at Buckingham Palace on 7 December 1915. He was killed in action in France on 30 January 1916.

Cigarette cards were produced from the mid 1870s until the end of World War Two (1939-1945). Used to strengthen thin cigarette packs the cards were quickly developed into advertising devices. Series of cards covering every conceivable subject, from sportsmen to flora and fauna, were produced to encourage collectors and potential smokers alike.

One of a collection of 103 cigarette cards.