India General Service MedalThe first of four general service medals that would cover minor campaigns in India. Insitutued in 1854 this medal continued with the same young head of Queen Victoria on the obverse for 41 years. A total of 24 four clasps were issued to this medal and the maximum number of clasps know to one medal is seven. Originally issued in silver to all ranks, it was awarded in bronze from 1885 to native support personnel such as bearers, sweepers and drivers.

600 medals were awarded during the First World War together with 5796 first bars

mounting or collection

This was the first medal to be named to the recipient around the rim

Official MoD licensing confirming authenticity and heritage

the Arctic Convoys transported vital supplies from Britain and Allied ports to the Soviet Union through freezing seas

Although intended as primarily a civilian award it is more often awarded to Military personnel for actions where military decorations would not be appropriate

The equivalent award for the other ranks for acts of gallantry in the air on non active operations was the Air Force Medal (AFM)

with rounded ends

finiancial excess and 'rule by divine right'

it was awarded in bronze from 1885 to native support personnel such as bearers

this award was originally known as the Conspicuous Service Cross and was issued for gallantry in presence of the enemy to warrant and subordinate officers of the RN who were ineligible (on account of their rank) for the Distinguished Service Order

Officers of the Merchant Navy were also included from 1931