The British War Medal

The British War Medal was generally awarded to everyone who had served overseas for 28 days or longer. It was also given posthumously to those who died on active service before completing the 28 days. Slightly different rules also applied in some areas, for example members of the Air Forces who had been involved in combat while based in the UK would also get the medal.

The medal was instituted after the war, in July 1919. In total, about 6.5 million silver medals were minted, with a further 110,000 struck in bronze for award to Chinese, Maltese and Indian Labour Corps.

Although the number of medals created is similar to that of the British Victory Medal, the War Medal is less commonly seen. Why? The medal is made of silver, and many have been sold and melted down as the retail value of the metal has been higher than the considered value of the medal itself.