The Craft of Miniature Medals

Posted on by James

Miniature medals were introduced to allow serving officers and men to wear their honours conveniently on mess dress uniforms. These small yet intricate versions maintain the prestige of their full-size counterparts while being more practical for formal evening attire.

What Makes a True Miniature?
Authentic miniature medals are crafted exactly like their full-size versions, using multiple components, rivets, swivels, bars, and varied metals. Unlike tailor’s copies—often simplified for cost—true miniatures mirror the detailed construction of the originals. This craftsmanship results in significant price differences between genuine miniatures and unofficial reproductions.

During the Victorian era, some officers even had their miniature medals personally engraved in the same style as their full-size awards, adding to their uniqueness and historical appeal.

Featured Here:
A set of five true miniature medals, mounted on a bar with silk ribbons for mess wear, representing the service of a First World War regular who continued on the home front during the Second World War.

  • 1914 Mons Star & Bar – Awarded to those who served in France or Belgium in the opening months of WWI.
  • 1914-19 War Medal – Given to those who served in the First World War.
  • 1914-19 Victory Medal – Issued to those who saw service in WWI and its associated campaigns.
  • 1939-45 Defence Medal – Recognising non-operational military service in WWII, particularly for home front duties.
  • George V Army Long Service & Good Conduct Medal – Awarded to regular soldiers for long and exemplary service.

The medals are housed in a silk-lined presentation case by A.H. Baldwin & Sons, a name synonymous with numismatic excellence since 1872. As one of the world’s most renowned dealers in medals and coins, Baldwin’s legacy of quality and historical significance continues to this day.

Miniature medals like these offer a fascinating glimpse into military history, carrying the same honour and significance as their full-size counterparts—just in a more compact form.