General Service Medal (1962 GSM) with Northern Ireland Clasp, Sterling Silver
Military Medal / Decorative Object · The Royal Mint, Llantrisant, Wales. The Royal Mint is the official producer of British coinage and state honors, operating under the UK Treasury with a history spanning over 1,100 years.
Pattern: General Service Medal (1918 or 1962 design). This specific obverse features the 'Dei Gratia' legend for Queen Elizabeth II, introduced to replace multiple previous service medals.
Type
Military Medal / Decorative Object
Maker
The Royal Mint, Llantrisant, Wales. The Royal Mint is the official producer of British coinage and state honors, operating under the UK Treasury with a history spanning over 1,100 years.
Material
Solid Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The ribbon is composed of ribbed silk/nylon in purple and green (the colors of the GSM). The clasps are also silver-toned metal, typically sterling for this era.
Dimensions
Standard diameter of 36mm. Weight approximately 31-35 grams (including ribbon and bars). The ribbon is 32mm wide.
Description
A classic British General Service Medal featuring the right-facing high-relief bust of Queen Elizabeth II wearing a crown. Suspended from the official purple and green ribbon, this piece features a clasp for Northern Ireland, the most common yet historically significant clasp for this medal. The sterling silver has acquired a natural dark patina consistent with age.
Key Features
Northern Ireland clasp; Cecil Thomas obverse design; sterling silver composition; purple/green striped ribbon; recipient details usually found on the rim.
Material & Composition
Solid Sterling Silver (.925 purity). The ribbon is composed of ribbed silk/nylon in purple and green (the colors of the GSM). The clasps are also silver-toned metal, typically sterling for this era.
Finish & Decoration
Medallic finish with raised relief (obverse featuring the crowned effigy of Queen Elizabeth II by Cecil Thomas). The reverse typically features a standing winged figure of Victory. The ribbon bar includes a 'clasp' indicating a specific campaign.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually no standard hallmarks on the face. The recipient's name, rank, service number, and regiment are typically machine-engraved or impressed on the thin outer rim (edge) of the medal.
Construction Details
Die-struck in sterling silver. The suspender is a swivelling type with a scroll pattern, attached via a claw mount to the top of the medal disk. Clasps are slid onto the ribbon and held by silver pins.
Functional Features
Swivel suspender allow the medal to lay flat against the uniform; brooch pin on the reverse of the ribbon (not visible but standard for wear); clasp feature to signify specific theaters of operation.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A. Features a silk/synthetic blend ribbon in the distinct purple-green-purple stripes of the General Service Medal.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-striking typical of the Royal Mint. Excellent detail in the Queen's hair and crown jewelry. The claw attachment is securely fitted, showing professional military-grade assembly.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font for the 'ELIZABETH II' inscription; characteristic swivel-scroll suspender; crispness of the die-striking on the crown and hair; natural wear patterns on the raised surfaces.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom. Manufactured by the Royal Mint. Represents the British tradition of honoring campaign service with fine metalwork.
Era & Period
Modern Era (post-WWII). Specifically the Elizabeth II period. The Northern Ireland clasp indicates service between 1969 and 2007.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970s - 1990s based on the 'DEI GRATIA' inscription style and the presence of the Northern Ireland clasp.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of British military service during the late 20th century; represents the standard honor for soldiers serving in 'Operation Banner'.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. The silver shows significant oxidation/tarnish (sulfide deposits), which is preferred by many collectors over over-polishing. The ribbon shows slight fraying at the edges. No significant rim knocks visible.
Value Estimate
£40 - £120 ($50-$150 USD). Value is heavily dependent on the recipient's rank and regiment (e.g., SAS or Parachute Regiment pieces command much higher prices).
Care & Maintenance
Do not over-polish; use a dry silver cloth if necessary but preserve the patina. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to prevent ribbon fading. Do not use chemical dips.
Similar Pieces
GSM 1918 (earlier version with different ribbon), Campaign Service Medals from other eras, or the newer Operational Service Medals (OSM) which are often cupro-nickel rather than silver.
Interesting Facts
The GSM 1962 was awarded for minor campaigns where a separate campaign medal was not issued. The Northern Ireland clasp was awarded for at least 30 days of service in the province during 'The Troubles'.