Waistbelt worn by General Sir Sam Browne, 1878

Browne won the Victoria Cross during the Indian Mutiny (1857-1859) when he engaged in hand-to-hand combat with enemy gunners. He stopped them re-loading their cannon but a sword severed his arm.

This waistbelt was part of a load-carrying system that Browne designed himself and which bears his name. It allowed him to carry and use a sword and pistol despite losing an arm. Today, the 'Sam Browne' is still part of most officers' dress uniform.