Collecting militaria for a fair exchange.
Medals
Medals are a lasting tribute to the sacrifices made by soldiers who have fought in conflicts all across the world.Campaign medals and gallantry medals are one of the most accessible for militaria collectors. Some focus on certain regiments, specific military campaigns and even single decorations of the highest order, such as the Victoria Cross. Medals are a lasting tribute to the sacrifices made by soldiers who have fought in conflicts all across the world.
- Selection of War MedalsRegular Price £225.00 Special Price £190.00
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Medals
Medals are a lasting tribute to the sacrifices made by soldiers who have fought in conflicts all across the world. Historic military medals have great significance as they are a tangible representation of the bravery, sacrifice, and service of individuals who have served their country in times of war and conflict.
Medals are awarded to individuals for various achievements and contributions, such as acts of bravery in combat, meritorious service, and outstanding leadership.
These medals serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals and their families, and the significant role they played in shaping history.
Historic military medals are often displayed in private collections as a way to remember and honour the individuals who earned them, and to preserve the memory of their service for future generations. They serve as a symbol of the bravery and sacrifice of all those who have served their country in times of war and conflict.
Collectors often focus on certain regiments, specific military campaigns and even single decorations of the highest order, such as the Victoria Cross.
How do I start collecting Military Medals?
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Building a militaria medal collection can be an exciting and rewarding hobby for history enthusiasts. Here are some steps to help you get started:
- Before starting a collection, it's important to research and learn about the different types of militaria medals, their history, and their significance. Read books, attend military history events and seminars, and talk to other collectors to gain knowledge and insights about militaria medals.
- Decide on your collecting goals, such as the era, country, or type of militaria medals that interest you. This will help you focus your collection and make informed decisions when buying new pieces.
- Set a budget for your collection, and keep in mind that rare and valuable medals can be expensive. Start small and work your way up as your collection grows.
- Begin your collection by acquiring militaria medals through reputable dealers, auctions, online marketplaces, or military surplus stores. Be wary of fakes and reproductions and seek expert advice if you are unsure of a medal's authenticity.
- Keep your collection organised and well-maintained by using archival-quality storage boxes or display cases. Consider displaying your collection in a dedicated room or area of your home to showcase your medals and share your passion with others.
How do I care for my Military Medal Collection?
Caring for a militaria medal collection requires some special considerations to preserve the medals' historical and sentimental value.
Here are some tips to help you care for your militaria medal collection:
- When handling your medals, make sure to wear gloves to avoid any oils or dirt from your hands coming into contact with the medals. Avoid touching the medal's surface directly and only handle them by the edges.
- Store your medals in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use acid-free archival quality storage boxes or display cases to prevent oxidation and discoloration of the medals. Avoid storing your medals in plastic bags or containers, as they can trap moisture and damage the medals.
- Use a soft cloth to clean your medals gently and avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. If the medals are tarnished, use a polishing cloth or a silver or brass cleaner that is safe for use on metals.
- Keep your medals in a safe and secure place to prevent theft or loss. Consider investing in a safe or security system for your collection.
By following these tips, you can preserve the historical and sentimental value of your militaria medal collection for many years to come.
Examples of British award medals:
The Victoria Cross (VC)
The Victoria Cross is the premier Operational Gallantry award given for ‘most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy’. It may be awarded to all ranks of the services and civilians and can be awarded posthumously. Individuals who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the VC would be issued with a bar.
The George Cross (GC)
The George Cross is the premier award given for non-operational gallantry or gallantry not in the presence of an enemy. This is awarded for acts of the greatest heroism or of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme danger.
The George Cross is equal in stature in the UK honours system to the Victoria Cross, the highest military gallantry award. This has always been the case since the introduction of the award in 1940. It may be awarded to all ranks of the services and civilians.
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
The Distinguished Service Order is an operational gallantry award given for highly successful command and leadership during active operations. Personnel who perform a further act of such leadership which would have merited a second award of the DSO would be issued with a gold bar.
The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross (CGC)
The Conspicuous Gallantry Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of an act (or acts) of conspicuous gallantry during active operations against the enemy. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the CGC would be issued with a silver bar.
The Royal Red Cross (Class I) (RRC)
The Royal Red Cross is a Meritorious award given ‘for exceptional devotion and competency in the performance of actual nursing duties…. over a continuous and long period’. Holders of the first class decoration are known as Members (RRC).
The Distinguished Service Cross (DSC)
The Distinguished Service Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy at sea. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the DSC are issued with a silver bar, with rounded ends, ornamented by a crown.
The Military Cross (MC)
The Military Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy on land. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second MC will be issued with a silver bar ornamented by the crown.
The Distinguished Flying Cross
The Distinguished Flying Cross is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy in the air. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited a second award of the DFC would be issued with a silver bar ornamented by an eagle.
The Air Force Cross is a non-operational award given to all ranks of the services in recognition of exemplary gallantry while flying not in the presence of the enemy. Personnel who perform a further act of such gallantry which would have merited the award of a second AFC are issued with a silver bar.
The Royal Red Cross (Class 2)
The Royal Red Cross (Class II) is a Meritorious award given for special devotion and competency in the performance of actual nursing duties…. over a continuous and long period’. Holders of the second class decoration are known as Associates (ARRC). Holders of a Royal Red Cross (Class II) (ARRC) who merit a second award are promoted to a Royal Red Cross (Class I) (RRC).
The George Medal (GM)
The George Medal is awarded for conspicuous gallantry not in the presence of the enemy. A silver bar may be issued to George Medal holders who perform a further act of such bravery which would have merited award of a second GM.
The Queen’s Gallantry Medal (QGM)
The Queen’s Gallantry Medal is awarded to civilians for acts of exemplary bravery at a level below that of the George Medal. The QGM is also awarded to military personnel for acts which military honours would not normally be granted such as acts of exemplary bravery not in the presence of the enemy.
A silver bar may be issued to QGM holders who perform a further act of such bravery which would have merited award of the QGM.
The Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal (QVRM)
The Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal is a meritorious award given for members of any rank of the Volunteer Reserve Forces, for devotion to duty and exemplary service over a period usually of at least 10 years that has been of particular value and an outstanding example to others.
The Mentioned in Dispatches award
A Mention in Despatches is an operational gallantry award given to all ranks for an act (or acts) of bravery during active operations. This award is available posthumously.
The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery Award
The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery is awarded for an act (or acts) of bravery not in the presence of the enemy. This award is available posthumously.
The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air
The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the Air is awarded for an act (or acts) of bravery while flying not in the presence of the enemy. This award is available posthumously.