Accession Number

992.017.025.003

Description

One stamped silver military medal, 3.6 cm in diameter. It is a circular coin-like medallion hung from a ribbon inserted through a cast double horizontal silver bar (3.7L X .8H) which is attached to the top of the medallion. The front of the medallion has the side profile of a clean-shaven man with short straight hair (King George VI). Encircling the inside edge in relief in upper-case lettering is, "GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:MN:REX F:D:ND:IMP.". On the reverse is the Royal Coat of Arms in slight relief with two lions standing on their hind legs on each side of a laurel bush with a large crown on the top. Across the bottom in upper case block letters is, "THE DEFENCE MEDAL". On either side near the top are the years 1939 (left) and 1945 (right). The ribbon (14.2L X 3W) has a long horizontal stripes with a .6cmW orange stripe in the centre with lime green coloured horizontal stripes (.5cmW) on each side with one narrow black stripe centred horizontally on top of the green.

Narrative

This medal is termed as "The Defence Medal". The silver laurel leaves represent the "King's Commendation for brave conduct, civil" during WWll.

History of Use

This medal was one of four issued to Robin James Dunsmuir for service in World War W II that are part of this accession. He used them in Victoria until his death in 1990. The medals and accompanying pamphlet were then used by his widow, Kathleen ("Kay") Dunderdale Hall (Mrs. Robin Dunsmuir) until her death in 1992 when her niece gave them to Craigdarroch Castle.

Date

circa 1946

Dimensions

3.6 cm outside diameter

Material

Metal, silver

Technique

Cast; Woven

Country of Origin

United Kingdom