Lot 162
WWII British War Medal (1939-1945) – King George VI
Collectables
This lot has ended
7 Jan 2026 · Huge Collection of Fine Art, Antique Furniture, Jewellery and Collectables
Description
WWII British War Medal (1939-1945) – King George VI
This is an original WWII War Medal (1939-1945), issued to all full-time personnel of the British Armed Forces and the Commonwealth who served for at least 28 days between 3rd September 1939 and 2nd September 1945.
Obverse:
Features a left-facing crowned portrait of King George VI, inscribed:
"GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OMN:REX ET INDIAE IMP."
(George VI, by the Grace of God, King of all Britons and Emperor of India).
Designed by Thomas Humphrey Paget.
Reverse:
Depicts a lion standing triumphantly over a defeated dragon, symbolising the victory of the Allied forces.
The years "1939 - 1945" are engraved above.
Designed by Edward Carter Preston.
Material & Size:
Material: Cupro-nickel.
Diameter: 36mm.
Suspension & Condition:
The medal retains its original suspender bar, but the ribbon is missing.
Surface wear and minor tarnishing, consistent with age.
Historical Significance:
The War Medal 1939-45 was awarded to all full-time members of the Armed Forces, including Army, Royal Navy, RAF, and Merchant Navy personnel.
Those who had operational service overseas often received this alongside other campaign stars, such as the Defence Medal or the Atlantic Star.
Many service members from Britain, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and India received this decoration.
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