Defence Medal Value Guide

The Defence Medal is a significant WWII campaign award recognizing both military and civilian contributions, including the Home Guard and Civil Defence. While British versions are cupro-nickel, the Canadian-struck examples are highly sought after for their 80% silver composition.

What affects the value of Defence Medal?

• Material composition, with silver Canadian issues generally holding higher value than cupro-nickel versions.
• The presence of the original ribbon and the condition of the medal's surface, specifically looking for 'rim nicks' or scratches.
• Historical provenance or inclusion in a complete medal group belonging to a specific veteran.
• Current market demand for WWII Commonwealth militaria, typically ranging between $55 and $60.

How to Identify Defence Medal?

• Examine the reverse design by Harold Wilson Parker featuring a Royal Crown resting on an oak sapling flanked by a lion and lioness.
• Check the material composition; Canadian issues are struck in 80% silver while UK issues are cupro-nickel.
• Verify the ribbon colors: flame orange and green with black stripes, symbolizing the fire bombings of the Blitz.
• Look for the dates 1939 and 1945 prominently displayed on the reverse side of the medal.

History of Defence Medal

Established in 1945, this medal was awarded for non-operational service in the Armed Forces, Home Guard, Civil Defence, and other approved services. The reverse design by Harold Wilson Parker features the Royal Crown resting on an oak sapling, flanked by a lion and a lioness. Canadian versions of the medal were struck in 80% silver, while British issues were produced in cupro-nickel.