British medals are awards given to members of the British Armed Forces, Allied/Commonwealth Forces, and civilian military personnel. These are commonly sorted into several types, separated by eligibility criteria, and the body that licensed them.
World War, General Service & Campaign Medals
These are awarded to military personnel who have participated in particular campaigns for a significant amount of time. Individual campaign medals have specific conditions in order to be eligible for the medal. For example, the 1939-45 star was awarded to personnel for at least 6 months of operational service in the Second World War, including time spent as a POW.
Commemorative Medals
Sometimes referred to as “Unofficial” medals, these are British medals that are not licensed by the Ministry of Defence, made to commemorate special events or circumstances. Commemorative medals are often the partnership of a medal manufacturer and a charity or respected organisation.
A good example is our very own National Service medal, which was originally proposed and sponsored by the Royal British Legion. This medal commemorates National Service conscripts between 1939 and 1960. AWARD is proud to have produced and issued 35 commemorative medals over the years we have been operating as a maker of British medals.
Military Decorations (Gallant, Meritorious & Distinguished Conduct)
These are the type most recognised by the public and the media; medals awarded for heroic or notable acts performed during service. To earn a decoration, one must be recommended in order to qualify, and limited numbers are awarded each year.
Prestigious British medals like the Victoria Cross, OBEs and MBEs come under this category. Gallantry medals are those awarded for acts in the face of the enemy, while Distinguished and Meritorious Conduct are awarded for acts not in the face of the enemy.
Coronation & Jubilee Medals
These medals are awarded to personnel to celebrate the crowning & anniversary of the reigning monarch, the most recent being the King Charles III Coronation medal and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee medal.
For personnel to qualify for this type of British medal, one must have been in effective service for several years before the medal’s issue, and completed another related criteria as an enlisted or reserve unit.
Cumulative & Long Service Medals
These British medals are awarded to recognise continued and long-term service to military personnel. A clean military record with no misconduct is essential to qualify for these medals. After a long service medal has been awarded, every additional 10 years of service is rewarded with a medal clasp.
