£30,000 Medal for WWII Pigeon Mary Revealed

On the latest episode of Antiques Roadshow, which aired on August 25, guests were astounded by the appraisal of a Dickin Medal awarded to a heroic pigeon named Mary, recognized for her vital role during World War II. Expert Mark Smith expressed excitement at encountering this rare medal, explaining that Mary was part of a pigeon service that helped the French Resistance by carrying messages back to the UK. He humorously dubbed her the 'James Bond of the pigeon world,' a comparison that delighted the guests. The story revealed that Mary faced numerous dangers, including injuries from hawks and gunfire, yet continued her missions with remarkable bravery. This unique piece of history not only highlights the contributions of animals in wartime but also captivated viewers with its unexpected charm.