Military Medal – George V Uncrowned Head Miniature 1916–1930
The Military Medal – George V Uncrowned Head Miniature is a die-struck reproduction of the first type of this distinguished British gallantry award, used between 1916 and 1930.
The Military Medal was instituted on 25 March 1916 to recognise acts of bravery in battle by non-commissioned officers and other ranks. Eligibility was applied retrospectively to qualifying acts performed from the outbreak of the First World War in 1914.
Originally restricted to men, the award was extended to women by Royal Warrant on 21 June 1916. Two early awards to women recognised bravery displayed during the Easter Rising in Dublin that same year.
Approximately 115,600 Military Medals were awarded during the First World War, together with 5,796 first award bars, 180 second award bars and a single third award bar. Each bar represented a further qualifying act of bravery.
Awards continued after the Armistice for gallantry during military operations in regions including India, Russia, Africa and the Middle East.
This miniature represents the first George V type, featuring the King’s uncrowned portrait on the obverse. The reverse carries the inscription “FOR BRAVERY IN THE FIELD” within a laurel wreath, surmounted by the Royal Cypher and crown.
Key features:
- Miniature reproduction of the Military Medal
- First George V type with uncrowned portrait
- Represents the issue used from 1916 to 1930
- Die-struck in the traditional manner
- Traditional “For Bravery in the Field” reverse
- Supplied with the correct dark blue, white and crimson ribbon
- Suitable for miniature medal groups and professional mounting