An Introduction to Medals

Obverse of 1937 Coronation Medal Reverse of 1937 Coronation Medal

Decorations or Medals divide roughly into three categories: Bravery Awards, awarded for feats of bravery in the battlefield or elsewhere, Campaign Medals, for personel who have participated in a particular campaign, and long or disinguished service decorations, awarded to those who have served in their particular service or role for a certain number of years and/or are judged to have performed particularly well in their role over a number of years. Some decorations are restricted to those working within a particular service or branch, others can be awarded to anyone, military or civilian, who fits the criteria for receiving the award.
The awarding of decorations dates back to ancient times, when warriors were awarded torques, arm rings and other items of jewelry to recognise their achievements in battle. In the early modern period (17th Century), medals were usually restricted to the officer class, although there were exceptions, such as the time when Oliver Cromwell ordered that soldiers of all ranks who participated in the Battle of Dunbar be awarded a medal for their tremendous achievement in fighting and winning the battle against the Scots when their situation appeared hopeless.
This practice of awarding 'other ranks' decorations was unfortunately, not revived until the time of Napoleon, who noticed that the awarding of campaign medals and bravery awards had a very noticable positive effect on morale, cynically commenting that 'with a few ribbons, I can conquer the whole of Europe'.
Since then, awards for civilians performing long or distinguished service have also been introduced, such as the George Cross, awarded to anyone, military or civilian, who has performed feats of extraordinary bravery not involving enemy forces.

In terms of value, unlike coins were the value depends largely on condition, rarity and demand, the value of medals also depends upon how intact the group is (how many medals belonging to a particular individual are still together) and the individual they belong to. If a medal/medals belonged to a particularly distinguished or famous individual, the price would go up accordingly. Although we are primarily a coin and bullion dealer, we do acquire the occasional medal or decoration and would always be interested in making an offer on one should one be offered for sale.

The Chard Medal Collection
This page is published as part of a small collection of interesting medals acquired in the course of our coin business.

Most are not primarily for sale. We hope they will add to your interest and enjoyment of our site.