Curious Hobbies of Interest: Military Medal Collecting

In this and future issues we will look at hobbies or pastimes that, although, uncommon generate lots of interest and fulfilment for its participants. We start with the Collection of Militaria and more specifically on Military Medal Collection and how to get started Many people choose to collect military memorabilia because it provides a glimpse into history and provides a unique insight into remembering the soldiers who have fought and died for their country. There are different types of memorabilia that can be collected, such as uniforms, flags and weapons. However, there is a particular type of memorabilia that has become prevalent; the collecting of military medals.

There is a definite appeal in collecting military medals. All countries issue medals to soldiers for certain actions or reasons. By collecting the medals, a person can discover the story behind each piece, which gives a humanitarian aspect to each medal. Additionally, military medals can make an attractive presentation item when displayed, as well as offering an instant conversation piece.

Throughout history, Military medals have been provided as badges of honor. Therefore, there are a high number of medals in circulation, spanning all countries and many time periods. Collectors choose medals based on their type; the Victoria Cross for example, or for their historical significance. Some collectors focus on a specific country, period of time or a specific War on which to base their collections. Collectors can choose medals simply for investment purposes also. It is advisable, however, when starting a medal collection to focus on just one of these factors.

It is essential that Buyers should know the different types of medals available, how to determine their authenticity and value, and have an awareness of places to source and procure the medals.

The valuation of medals is obviously, an important collecting feature. Factors which enhance the medal itself include: A Complete group of medals awarded to a particular person, would be more valuable than if the medal was valued individually. Further enhancement is gained if the recipient was a personality or a “Hero” and if any supporting documentary evidence was available.

Medals can be purchased for as little as £10 for a named Victory or War medal from the First World War. This is a great starting point as these medals can have the recipient’s name, rank, service number and his regiment. From which, you can research the man's service history using the medal card index held in the National Archives. At the opposite end of the spectrum the most expensive medal transaction was a Victoria Cross medal, awarded to Lieutenant John Grant in 1905, and bought at auction by Lord Ashcroft last year for over £400.000! Lord Ashcroft holds the largest collect of Victoria Cross medals valued at £40m!!

Medals can be acquired from a number of sources, often, inheriting medals from relatives, generates the interest to start a collection. Antique and Medal Fairs, Car Boot sales and on line from Auction houses also present the opportunities to add to one’s collection There are many sources of information ranging from recommended publications and supplemented by Regimental Museums, Public Libraries and the Internet of course. Useful publications include: The recommended Medal collector's bible; Collecting Medals and Decorations. Primarily focussing on collecting medals, it gives the collector beneficial information on the know-how of medal collecting. It provides notes on authenticity, fakes; the collection, buying, selling of medals and how to start a reference library. In contract the Medal Yearbook and the Q publication provide a guide to valuation and indicate the approximate value of specific medals. These are considered, as excellent guides when making purchases.

New Collectors should be aware of the types of medals available, how to determine authenticity, and where to buy the medals, However, they also need to be aware of the pitfalls, with a critical warning fake or reproduction medals, medal cleaning should also be avoided unless you can find a specialist.

For serious collectors, membership to a Medal society is essential. The Orders, Medals and Research Society, OMRS, is UK based, with a membership of circa 4000 members and is dedicated to the research and collection of orders, decorations and medals Benefits include: An annual conference, local branch meetings are held in Swindon Village, with guest speakers and chance to exchange personal views with others. Anyone with a keen interest can apply for membership, Contact Branch Secretary, John Wright on 01242 519815 or email: qcmilitaria@btconnect.com

Finally, it is most advisable to read up as much as possible, before embarking on this hobby, as it does take time to become experienced and as there is investment involves, extra care is essential. I hope that this resume has been of interest to you and perhaps acted as a “taster” to those perhaps looking for a new hobby? .