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The Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal

The Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal was instituted in 1951 and is awarded for twenty aggregate years of service in the police.

Time Period: Post-WW2
Institution: 14 June 1951
Country: United Kingdom & Commonwealth

The Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal is an honor bestowed upon police officers in the United Kingdom. Established in 1951, it is awarded to individuals who have completed twenty aggregate years of service in the UK police forces.

The criteria for receiving this medal were established by Royal Warrant under King George VI in June 1951. It is presented as a token of appreciation from the Sovereign for long and meritorious service provided by members of the UK Police Forces. To be eligible for this award, an officer must be recommended by the Chief Constable to the Home Secretary. The recommendation must confirm the following:

The officer has served as a member of a Police Force.
The officer has demonstrated efficient service for the qualifying period.
The officer’s character has been exemplary.

The Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal Design

The Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal is a circular decoration, measuring 1.4 inches (36 mm) in diameter. Originally crafted from cupro-nickel, modern versions are rhodium plated.

The obverse side displays the effigy of the reigning monarch. On the reverse side, there is an image of Justice holding scales in her left hand and a wreath in her right, encircled by the inscription ‘FOR EXEMPLARY POLICE SERVICE’.

The suspender comes in both swivelling and non-swivelling formats and is straight in shape. Recipients’ ranks and names are engraved on the rim using impressed capital letters.

The medal is suspended from a dark blue ribbon, 1.25 inches (32 mm) wide, with two thin white stripes on each edge. Bars for additional service of 30 and 40 years were authorized on March 11, 2022.

The King’s Police Medal

The King’s Police Medal is an award of the United Kingdom given to police in the United Kingdom for gallantry or distinguished service.

Time Period: Pre-WW1
Institution: 7 July 1909
Country: United Kingdom

The King’s Police Medal (or KPM) is bestowed upon police officers in the United Kingdom in recognition of acts of gallantry or distinguished service. Initially established on 7 July 1909, its creation was prompted by the need to honor the bravery exhibited by police officers during the Tottenham Outrage.

Originally, the medal was awarded across the wider British Empire, including Commonwealth nations. However, many of these countries now have their own systems of honors.

In 1940, the medal was renamed the King’s Police and Fire Services Medal (KPFSM), and it was later replaced by the Queen’s Police Medal (QPM) on 19 May 1954, coinciding with the establishment of a separate Queen’s Fire Service Medal. Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022 and the ascension of King Charles III to the throne of the United Kingdom, the award reverted to its original name, the King’s Police Medal.

From 1909 to 1979, the medal was conferred a total of 4,070 times for acts of gallantry and distinguished service, including awards across dominions and the empire. During this period, 54 bars and one second bar were awarded in recognition of multiple acts of gallantry or service.

The King’s Police Medal Design

The medal is circular silver and measures 36 mm in diameter. The ribbon is suspended from a ring.

The obverse of the medal features the profile of the reigning monarch, accompanied by an inscription denoting the specific period of their reign. The reverse side depicts Saint Michael, the patron saint of police officers, holding a sword and shield at rest, symbolizing preparedness for peace.

Although the basic design has remained consistent since its inception in 1909, over time, the exergue of the medal underwent changes, with the addition of inscriptions such as “For Distinguished Police Service” or “For Gallantry.” Recipients’ names, ranks, and forces are inscribed on the rim of the medal.

The ribbon, originally dark blue with silver stripes at each edge, was later amended to include a central silver stripe and, for gallantry awards, a thin red stripe down the middle of each silver stripe from 1933 onwards.

German Tinnies: What Are They And Why Are They So Collectible?

Campaign shields were military decorations worn on the sleeves of uniforms to denote participation in specific military campaigns or battles.

German tinnies were small, lightweight badges or pins made of tin alloy, typically featuring patriotic or propaganda motifs, slogans, or symbols related to Nazi ideology and events of the time. They were popular during World War II as they served multiple purposes, including fundraising. Tinnies played a role in fostering a sense of unity, patriotism, and support for the regime among the German population during the conflict. So, let’s take a look at their history and some examples.

The Purpose of German Tinnies

German tinnies were extremely popular during World War II as they served multiple purposes. First of all, they were used as a tool for propaganda, promoting Nazi ideals, events, and personalities. They often featured imagery glorifying the military, Hitler, or achievements of the Third Reich, serving to rally support for the regime and boost morale among the civilian population.

Many people also collected tinnies as souvenirs or mementos of significant events or rallies they attended. They were affordable and accessible, making them appealing to a wide range of people, including soldiers, civilians, and members of Nazi organizations.

In some cases, tinnies were sold as part of fundraising efforts for various causes, such as supporting the war effort, charitable organizations, or Nazi Party activities. Proceeds from tinnie sales could contribute to financing Nazi initiatives or providing aid to soldiers and their families.

German Tinnies: Examples and Pictures

Overall, the process of making German tinnies was relatively efficient and cost-effective, allowing for the mass production of these small badges during World War II. Their widespread production and distribution mean that tinnies come in a variety of designs, making them interesting to collectors seeking diversity in their collections.

1929: The Reichsparteitag Nurnberg Badge

The Reichparteitag, or Nuremberg Rally, of 1929 was the first major propaganda event held by the Nazi Party in Nuremberg. This rally marked the Nazi Party’s growing influence in German politics and was used to showcase their ideology and military discipline.

1932: The Reichsjugendtages Potsdam Badge

The First Reich Youth Day in Potsdam was a significant event aimed at mobilizing the German youth under the Nazi banner. This event was part of the broader Nazi strategy to indoctrinate young Germans with their ideology.

1931: The Gera's Gauparteitag Badge

5 September 1931

Gera’s Gauparteitag was a regional Nazi Party meeting held in Gera. These regional gatherings (Gauparteitag) were important for consolidating party support at the local level and mobilizing party members and supporters.

1932: The Gautag in Essen Badge

30 October 1932

The Gautag in Essen was another regional Nazi rally. Held in the industrial heartland of Germany, such events were crucial for the Nazis to garner support among the working class and industrial workers.

1932: The Wuppertal Hitler Tag Participants Badge

This commemorative badge was issued to individuals who participated in the Hitler Tag event held in Wuppertal, Germany, in 1932. This event was organized by the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP), commonly known as the Nazi Party, and served as a platform for Adolf Hitler to rally support for his political agenda.

1932: The N.S Flugtag Neustadt Haardt Rhein-Pfalz

The 1932 N.S. Flugtag Neustadt Haardt Rhein-Pfalz was an aviation event organized by the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP), also known as the Nazi Party, held in Neustadt an der Weinstraße in the Rhein-Pfalz region of Germany. Flugtag translates to “flight day” in English, and these events typically featured airshows, aircraft demonstrations, and displays of aviation prowess.

1932: Grossdeutscher Tag Berchtesgaden Badge

10 July 1932

The “Greater German Day” in Berchtesgaden was a Nazi rally aimed at promoting the idea of a Greater Germany that would include all German-speaking peoples. Berchtesgaden was also significant as it was near Hitler’s mountain retreat.

1932: Hitler Woche in Königsberg

17 July 1932

“Hitler Week” in Königsberg was a week-long series of events designed to promote Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in the East Prussian city of Königsberg. Such events were part of the broader strategy to solidify Hitler’s image and the party’s popularity across Germany.

1932: Dortmund SA Rally

9 July 1933

This rally in Dortmund was an SA (Sturmabteilung) event, emphasizing the paramilitary organization’s loyalty to Hitler and its role in enforcing Nazi policies and suppressing opposition.

1933: Reichparteitag 1933

30 August – 3 September 1933

The Reichparteitag of 1933, also known as the “Rally of Victory,” was the first Nuremberg Rally after Hitler’s rise to power. It celebrated the Nazi seizure of power and showcased the unity and strength of the Nazi regime.

1933: Befreiungsfeier in Kelheim

22 October 1933 (source)

The “Liberation Celebration” in Kelheim commemorated the Nazi Party’s political victories and the consolidation of power in 1933. These celebrations were used to reinforce the narrative of liberation from the Weimar Republic and the triumph of Nazi ideology.

1934: Tag der Arbeit

1 May 1934

“Tag der Arbeit” or “Day of Labor” was the Nazi celebration of International Workers’ Day. The Nazis co-opted this day to align the labor movement with Nazi ideology, promoting the message of national solidarity and labor’s role in the Nazi state.

1933: The Fest der Jugend Badge

The 1933 Fest der Jugend badge was a badge issued for the Festival of Youth held in 1933. This event, organized by the Nazi Party, aimed to mobilize and indoctrinate German youth in support of the party’s ideology and agenda. The badge featured symbols associated with the Nazi regime, such as the swastika, and was often worn by participants and attendees of the festival.

1933: The Gau Thüringen Erfurt Badge

The 1933 Gau Thüringen Erfurt Badge was a commemorative badge associated with the Nazi Party’s regional administration in Thuringia, Germany. These badges were distributed to party members and supporters in the region, serving as a symbol of affiliation with the Nazi movement.

1933: The NSDAP National Party Badge

The 1933 NSDAP National Party Badge, also known as the Nazi Party Badge, was a prominent symbol of allegiance to the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP) during the early years of Adolf Hitler’s regime in Germany. This badge, featuring a swastika encircled by an oak leaf wreath, was issued to party members as a mark of their affiliation and loyalty to the Nazi movement.

1935: The Wettkampftage der SA Gruppe Niedersachsen Badge

The 1935 Wettkampftage der SA Gruppe Niedersachsen Badge, translated as the “Competition Days of the SA Group Niedersachsen Badge,” was a commemorative badge issued by the Sturmabteilung (SA), or Storm Detachment, in the Lower Saxony region of Germany. The SA was a paramilitary organization.

1935: The Fest der Jugend Badge

The Fest der Jugend aimed to promote loyalty to the Nazi regime among young people. The 1935 Fest der Jugend Badge was a commemorative badge issued to mark the Fest der Jugend (Youth Festival) event held in Nazi Germany. This festival was organized by the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP) as part of its efforts to mobilize and indoctrinate German youth into Nazi ideology.

1936: The NSDAP Gautag Hessen Nassau Badge

The 1936 NSDAP Gautag Hessen Nassau Badge was a commemorative badge issued by the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP) for the Gautag event held in the Hessen Nassau region of Germany. Gautag events were large-scale gatherings organized by the NSDAP at the district (Gau) level where party members and supporters convened to celebrate Nazi ideology.

1936: The NSDAP Gautag Koblenz Trier Badge

The 1936 NSDAP Gautag Koblenz Trier Badge was a commemorative badge issued to mark the Gautag event held in Koblenz-Trier, Germany, in 1936. These events were organized by the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP) as regional gatherings aimed at promoting party ideology, showcasing Nazi achievements, and fostering loyalty among party members.

1937: The Fest der Jugend Badge

The 1937 Fest der Jugend Badge was a commemorative badge issued for the Fest der Jugend event held in 1937. This event, translated as “Youth Festival,” was organized by the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP) in Germany. The badge features the traditional eagle, swastika, and inscription referring to the event.

1938: The NSDAP Gautag Bochum Westfallen

The 1938 NSDAP Gautag Bochum Westfallen Badge was issued for the Gautag event held in Bochum, Westphalia in 1938. Gautag events were regional gatherings organized by the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP) in various parts of Germany. These events typically featured speeches, parades, and other activities aimed at promoting Nazi ideology and bolstering party morale.

1938: The NSDAP Kreistag Mecklenburg Ludwigslust

The 1938 NSDAP Kreistag Mecklenburg Ludwigslust Badge was issued for the Kreistag event held in Ludwigslust, Mecklenburg in 1938. Kreistag events were district-level gatherings organized by the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP) in various regions of Germany. These gatherings served as platforms for disseminating Nazi propaganda, promoting party policies, and fostering loyalty among party members.

How Were Nazi Tinnies Made?

German tinnies during WW2 were typically made using a process called die-striking or stamping. Artists fist conceptualized designs featuring patriotic or propaganda motifs, symbols, or slogans associated with the Nazi regime or specific events. Metal dies were then meticulously created, bearing negative impressions of these designs. Sheets of tin alloy, typically thin and composed of tin mixed with other metals like lead or zinc, were prepared for stamping.

Positioned between the dies of a stamping press, these metal sheets underwent significant force, imprinting the design onto the metal and cutting out the shape of the tinnie simultaneously. Following stamping, tinnies underwent various finishing steps, including cleaning, polishing, and sometimes adding enamel coating or paint.

Depending on the design, attachment mechanisms like pins or clips were affixed to the back, facilitating wearing or display.

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The Charlotte Cross

The Charlotte Cross was a decoration founded in 1916 by King Wilhelm II to honor his wife and awarded for care-related services.

Time Period: Pre-WW1, World War i
Institution: 5 January 1916
Country: Germany

The Charlotte Cross, established on January 5, 1916 by King Wilhelm II in tribute to his wife, Queen Charlotte, was bestowed upon individuals regardless of rank, who demonstrated exceptional care for the sick and wounded in times of war. It also recognized other valuable caregiving services during World War I.

The Charlotte Cross Design

The emblem comprises a silvered white metal cross botonny, featuring a central medallion. The front of the medallion displays the intertwined initials “C” and “W” for Charlotte and Wilhelm, while the reverse side bears the year 1916.

Initially crafted from pure silver, the crosses changed to other materials at the onset of World War I.

It was tradition to wear the emblem on the left breast, attached to a yellow ribbon bordered by narrow and wide black stripes on either side.

The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal

The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal is a USA award established by George H. W. Bush in 1993 for substantial volunteer service.

Time Period: Post-WW2
Institution: 9 January 1993
Country: United States

The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM) was established by George H. W. Bush through Executive Order 12830 on January 9, 1993, and the design was created by the Institute of Heraldry. It was first awarded in December 1993.

This medal honors members of the military—active duty, reserve, and National Guard—who go above and beyond their required duties by contributing significant volunteer service to their local communities. The volunteer work must be sustained, direct, and produce tangible results that reflect positively on the military and the Department of Defense. The definition of volunteer service is intentionally broad, encompassing a wide range of activities such as Volunteer Emergency Services (e.g., Civil Air Patrol, Coast Guard Auxiliary, or volunteer firefighting/EMS/Rescue Squad), involvement with organizations like the Boy Scouts of America or Habitat for Humanity, and various community initiatives within local, state, or federal parks and forests.

There is no specific time requirement to qualify for the MOVSM, as approval authorities assess each case to determine if the service merits this special recognition. The medal is intended to recognize ongoing and substantial community support rather than a single act or achievement. Additionally, direct involvement in community activities is emphasized, while merely attending membership meetings or social events of a community service group does not count as qualifying service.

MOVSM Multiple Awards: The Service Ribbons

First award: service ribbon with no service stars.
Second award: service ribbon with one service star.
Third award: service ribbon with two service stars.
Fourth award: service ribbon with three service stars.
Fifth award: service ribbon with four service stars.
Sixth award: service ribbon with silver service star.
Seventh award: service ribbon with silver and bronze service stars.
Eighth award: service ribbon with silver and two bronze service stars.
Ninth award: service ribbon with silver and three bronze service stars.

The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal Design

The medal is bronze and measures 1 1/8 inches in diameter. On the obverse side, it features five interlaced annulets behind a five-pointed star, all encircled by a laurel wreath. The reverse side depicts an oak sprig with three leaves and two acorns, with the inscription “OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE” above and “UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES” below.

The suspension and service ribbon is 1 3/8 inches wide and consists of various stripes: 1/8 inch bluebird, 1/8 inch goldenlight, 3/16 inch bluebird, 1/16 inch green, 5/32 inch goldenlight, center 1/16 inch green, 5/32 inch goldenlight, 1/16 inch green, 3/16 inch bluebird, 1/8 inch goldenlight, and 1/8 inch bluebird.

Additional awards are denoted by five-pointed bronze service stars (one per additional award) and five-pointed silver service stars (representing five awards each).

The SS Edelweiss Cap Badge

The SS Edelweiss Cap Badge was an award given by the Third Reich regime to Waffen-SS Mountain Troops serving in Norway.

Time Period: Nazi Germany (Interwars Period, World War II)
Institution: 15 April 1941
Country: Germany

The SS Edelweiss Cap Badge was an award established on 15th April 1941 and given by the Third Reich regime to Waffen-SS Mountain Troops serving in Norway.

In October 1940, Waffen-SS Mountain Troops stationed in Norway began wearing Army-style attire. Subsequently, on April 15, 1941, authorization was extended to all SS-Mountain Troops to don the Mountain Cap.

The choice of the Edelweiss was deliberate, as it thrives in the challenging conditions of high Alpine elevations, symbolizing resilience and fortitude.

The SS Edelweiss Cap Badge Design

The Officer’s Edelweiss badge was crafted from either bullion or aluminum thread, reflecting superior quality. In contrast, badges for Non-Commissioned Officers and enlisted men were of lesser quality and made from regular thread.

The Edelweiss Badge was affixed to the left side of the cap. The emblem held significant symbolism, not only representing the German mountain troops but also embodying qualities of bravery and courage.

The German Knight’s Cross Freikorps Detachment Von Randow

The German Knight’s Cross Freikorps Detachment Von Randow (or Randow Cross) was created by Captain Alfred von Randow in March 1919.

Time Period: Interwar Period
Institution: 5 January 1919
Country: Germany

The Freikorps Detachment von Randow German Knight’s Cross, also known as the “Randow Cross,” was created and designed by Captain Alfred von Randow in March 1919. It was primarily bestowed upon members of the Volunteer Detachment von Randow, a unit formed on January 5, 1919, tasked with ensuring security in the Baltic region.

This decoration aimed to foster camaraderie within the unit and serve as a memento of past experiences. Initially, it comprised two grades: the standard Knight’s Cross and a Silver Breast Star. The Grand Cross, accompanied by the Breast Star in Gold, was bestowed upon Commanders who displayed extraordinary merit. The Knight’s Cross was awarded for four months of exemplary service, while the Silver Breast Star recognized six months of commendable service.

The first ceremony honoring recipients took place on April 12, 1919, just nine days after the initial batch of crosses was delivered. Recipients received their awards along with certificates. In May 1919, two additional grades were introduced: the Gold Breast Star and the Grand Cross. The Knight’s Cross was further divided into I and II Class.

Although primarily awarded between 1919 and 1923, sporadic awards continued until 1928. Following the NSDAP’s rise to power in 1933, the award was entirely discontinued.

The Randow Cross Design

The cross features a quadrilateral eight-point design with black enamel. Because it was produced by several German manufacturers, its size may vary depending on the maker.

The I Class Cross was traditionally worn on the left breast pocket, secured by a vertical pin and the II Class Cross was worn suspended from a black ribbon, adorned with a clasp in the shape of crossed swords and a crown. Both the Breast Star in Silver and Gold were affixed to the tunic pocket. The Grand Cross was worn as a decorative neckpiece.

The Medal for Service at the Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster

The Medal for Service at the Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster or Chernobyl Liquidators Medal was awarded for participation in the nuclear clean up.

Time Period: Post-WW2
Year of Institution: 2016
Country: Ukraine

The Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster Service Medal or Chernobyl Liquidators Medal holds a unique distinction as the sole medal globally granted for involvement in a nuclear cleanup operation. The initial responders to the catastrophic Chernobyl event were firefighters, unaware of the peril they faced and assured of minimal radiation exposure. Lacking proper protective gear, they wore only lightweight gas masks. Tragically, many have since perished, while others endure a slow and agonizing decline.

Initially, authorities opted to conceal information from the public, and first responders received standard Firefighter’s Bravery medals. The disaster occurred just before the scheduled May Day parade, leading thousands to march outdoors, unwittingly inhaling radioactive particles instead of remaining indoors. This negligence is regarded by many Russians as another instance of the Party elite’s disregard for Soviet citizens. It wasn’t until the wind carried radioactive dust beyond the border that substantial action was taken, including the deployment of specialized military units.

Upon the medal’s establishment, it was conferred upon all those who sacrificed their lives and well-being in the aftermath of the incident.

The Chernobyl Liquidators Medal Design

The medal is crafted with a gilded finish complemented by enamel in black, red, and turquoise hues. At the heart of the design and in the obverse lies a depiction of the atom splitting into Alpha, Beta, and Gamma radiation.

The Pearl Harbor Commemorative Medal

The Pearl Harbor Commemorative Medal was established by the United States Congress in 1990 and awarded for combat operations.

Time Period: Post-WW2
Institution: 5 November 1990
Country: United States

The Pearl Harbor Commemorative Medal, also referred to as the Pearl Harbor Survivor’s Medal, is a bronze commemorative medal established by the United States Congress on November 5, 1990 (P.L. 101-510, 104 Stat. 1721).

To qualify for the award, individuals must have been members of the Armed Forces of the United States present in Hawaii on December 7, 1941, and engaged in combat operations against Imperial Japanese military forces attacking Hawaii on that day. Those who were killed or wounded in the attack are considered to have participated in the combat operations.

Congress later expanded eligibility on September 23, 1996, allowing civilians who were present in Hawaii on December 7, 1941, and participated in combat operations against the attack to receive the award, regardless of their membership in the Armed Forces.

Next-of-kin of deceased individuals eligible for the award were permitted to apply for the medal, with one medal allotted per eligible person.

The Pearl Harbor Commemorative Medal Design

The medal is circular in shape and made of bronze. The obverse shows an mage of the harbor and an inscription reading “Remember Pearl Harbor – December 7 1941“. The reverse shows an eagle and the inscriptions “For Those Who Served” and “A Date Which Will Live in Infamy”.

measures 1.5 inches in diameter and is non-portable, meaning it is not intended to be worn on clothing.

The King Charles III Coronation Medal

The King Charles III Coronation Medal is a commemorative medal that celebrates the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla in 2023.

Time Period: World War II
Institution: 6 May 2023
Country: Great Britain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and other Commonwealth countries.

The King Charles III Coronation Medal was crafted as a commemorative token to honor the crowning of King Charles III and Queen Camilla on May 6, 2023.

In the United Kingdom, recipients of the medal included:

Individuals who actively contributed to the official Coronation events in Westminster Abbey and processions, as well as other officially recognized ceremonial Coronation events.
Serving members of the Armed Forces who had completed five full calendar years of service by May 6, 2023, or who participated in Armed Forces Coronation events throughout 2023.
Frontline emergency personnel who had served in a paid, retained, or voluntary capacity, dealing with emergencies as part of their service conditions, and who had completed five full calendar years of service by May 6, 2023.
Publicly employed prison services personnel who had completed five full calendar years of service by May 6, 2023.
Living individual recipients of the George Cross and the Victoria Cross.

In total, over 400,000 medals were awarded.

The King Charles III Coronation Medal Design

The medals are crafted from nickel silver. On the obverse side, there is a crowned effigy of the King and Queen facing left. The reverse side displays the Royal Cypher CiiiR surmounted by the Tudor Crown, a laurel wreath, and the date of the coronation, which is May 6, 2023.

Worcestershire Medal Service issues the medals, with the effigy on the obverse face modeled by Martin Jennings. The reverse was designed by Phil McDermott of the Worcestershire Medal Service.

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