British World War II War Medal (1939-1945) in Cupro-Nickel with Suspension Bar
Military Decoration / Medallic Art · The Royal Mint, United Kingdom. The Royal Mint is the government-owned mint that produces coins and military honors for the UK; established over 1,100 years ago.
Pattern: War Medal 1939–1945; design by Edward Carter Preston (ECP).
Type
Military Decoration / Medallic Art
Maker
The Royal Mint, United Kingdom. The Royal Mint is the government-owned mint that produces coins and military honors for the UK; established over 1,100 years ago.
Material
Cupro-nickel (an alloy of copper and nickel). Note: While often called "silver" by laypeople, the British 1939-45 War Medal was struck in cupro-nickel for UK forces, though certain Commonwealth versions (like those for Canada) were struck in .800 silver.
Dimensions
Standard 36mm diameter circular medal; weight approximately 28-31 grams. Suspension bar represents the full width of the ribbon mounting.
Description
This is a quintessential British military decoration awarded to all full-time personnel of the Armed Forces wherever they served during WWII. The reverse depicts the triumph of the British Lion over a double-headed dragon, symbolizing the defeat of the German and Japanese empires. It is a sombre, powerful design that reflects the gravity of the 1939-1945 conflict.
Key Features
Edward Carter Preston's 'ECP' signature; the distinct non-swivel suspension bar; the dates 1939-1945 prominently featured on the reverse.
Material & Composition
Cupro-nickel (an alloy of copper and nickel). Note: While often called "silver" by laypeople, the British 1939-45 War Medal was struck in cupro-nickel for UK forces, though certain Commonwealth versions (like those for Canada) were struck in .800 silver.
Finish & Decoration
Matte/Satin strike with high-relief die-stamping. Features a lion standing over a fallen two-headed dragon (symbolizing the Axis powers), with the dates 1939/1945. Classical realist style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Designer's initials 'ECP' visible on the reverse (left side). No silver hallmarks are present as this is a cupro-nickel base-metal issue. The rim usually remains plain/unnamed unless issued to specific Commonwealth forces.
Construction Details
Die-struck from machine-cut steel dies. The suspension is a non-swiveling 'single-toe' claw attached to a straight bar. This is a mass-produced governmental military honor.
Functional Features
Single-toe claw attachment with a horizontal ribbon bar intended to hold a 32mm wide ribbon (red, white, and blue). No mechanical hinges; fixed suspension.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Features a fixed suspension bar intended for garment pinning or mounting onto a medal bar.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial die-striking. The detail in the dragon's scales and the lion's musculature demonstrates the superior engraving standards of the Royal Mint during the mid-20th century.
Authentication Indicators
Correct die-strike details (sharpness of lion's mane); correct ECP signature placement; standard British suspension bar geometry. Lack of silver hallmarks is correct for the UK cupro-nickel issue.
Origin & Manufacturing
London and Llantrisant, United Kingdom; struck by the Royal Mint.
Era & Period
World War II / Post-War period (Instituted August 16, 1945).
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1950. While millions were produced, the bulk of distribution occurred in the late 1940s.
Cultural Significance
Represents the service of millions of men and women during the second World War; it is a primary family heirloom for many British and Commonwealth households.
Condition Notes
Very Good. There is visible surface tarnish/patination (toning) consistent with cupro-nickel aging. Minor edge knocks visible. The ribbon is missing. Minor verdigris/corrosion spot near the top 1939 date.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. Value increases if it is part of a 'named' group or includes the original ribbon and box of issue.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive silver polishes. Cupro-nickel should be kept dry. Light dusting with a microfiber cloth is sufficient. If cleaning is necessary, use very mild soapy water and dry immediately.
Similar Pieces
The Defence Medal (often found together with this), the 1939-45 Star, and the Canadian Silver variant of the War Medal (which is heavier and hallmarked 'Silver').
Interesting Facts
Over 6 million of these medals were produced. Despite the high volume, it remains a pillar of British phaleristics. The design was chosen to represent the collective victory of the British Empire.