Defence Medal 19391945 Miniature Original Second World War Home Service Award
Original miniature Defence Medal, as issued for non-operational service during the Second World War.
The Defence Medal was instituted in May 1945 and awarded to British and Commonwealth forces for service in non-operational areas subjected to air attack or closely threatened, as well as for service overseas in non-operational roles. Qualifying service included at least three years in the UK, or one year in overseas territories such as India, Singapore, Malta, or the Middle East where enemy attack was expected. Members of the Home Guard, Royal Observer Corps, Civil Defence services, and fire brigades also qualified. This miniature version was privately purchased for mess dress, tailcoat, or miniature medal bar displays.
The obverse features the uncrowned effigy of King George VI by Humphrey Paget, while the reversedesigned by Harold Parkerdepicts the Royal Crown resting on an oak sapling, flanked by two heraldic lions, with the dates "1939" and "1945" at the top left and top right. The imagery symbolises the strength of the British nation and Commonwealth standing firm against aggression. The ribbon is flame-coloured (orange with a green central stripe), representing the fires of the Blitz and the green fields of Britain.
A superb addition for:
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Second World War medal collectors
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Home Front / Civil Defence enthusiasts
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British Commonwealth campaign medal specialists
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Miniature medal display collections
Condition:
Good overall condition for age. Original ribbon present with fine detail visible on the obverse king's effigy and the reverse crown and lions design. Please examine photographs carefully for exact condition.
A highly desirable miniature of one of the most recognisable British WWII campaign medals, representing the sacrifice and endurance of those who served on the home front.
