( VC on its own without campaign medals )

The estimated sale price was AUS$ 500,000. ( £244,000 ). The sale hammer price realised AUS$ 495,000. ( £241,209 ). The identity of the purchaser has not been revealed.

For the award of the Victoria Cross

[ London Gazette, 14 December 1918 ], Rosiere, France, 9 August 1918, Private Robert Matthew Beatham, 8th Bn, Australian Imperial Force.

For most conspicuous bravery and self-sacrifice during the attack north of Rosieres, east of Amiens, on 9th August 1918.

When the advance was held up by heavy machine-gun fire, Private Beatham dashed forward, and, assisted by one man, bombed and fought the crews of four enemy machine guns, killing ten of them and capturing ten others, thus facilitating the advance and saving many casualties.

When the final objective was reached, although previously wounded, he again dashed forward and bombed a machine gun, being riddled with bullets and killed in doing so.

The valour displayed by this gallant soldier inspired all ranks in a wonderful manner.

Robert Beatham's mother was invested with his Victoria Cross by King George V at Buckingham Palace on the 8th March 1919.

Robert Beatham was killed following his VC action and is buried in the Heath Cemetery, Harbonnieres, France.