This is a desirable Indian Mutiny Medal awarded to Thomas Croft, 32nd Light Infantry. Croft was an original defender of Lucknow and was killed in action on November 9, 1857. Lucknow was the capital of the former state of Awadh and was the location of a prolonged defense by the British during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The 32nd Regiment was stationed at Lucknow at the outbreak of the mutiny. In late June 1857 the 32nd Regiment was forced to withdraw into the Residency. The rebels inflected a large amount of British casualties that amounted to 15 officers and 364 other ranks dead and 11 officers and 198 other ranks wound, with numerous civilian casualties. Despite the casualty rate, intense heat and an outbreak of cholera, the 32nd Regiment defeated constant rebel attacks. Lucknow was finally relieved in mid-November. The Regiment was awarded 4 Victoria Crosses for gallantry during the siege and Queen Victoria directed that "In consideration of the enduring gallantry displayed in the Defense of the Residency of Lucknow, the 32nd Regiment be clothed, equipped and trained as a Light Infantry Regiment from 26 February 1858". This silver medal is marked "T. CROFT, 32ND L.I." and has a Defense of Lucknow clasp with a white ribbon with two red stripes.