King's South Africa Medal

King's South Africa Medal

The King's South Africa Medal stands as a testament to the valour and service of British and colonial forces in the latter stages of the Second Boer War. Instituted in 1901, this medal was conferred upon military personnel who continued to serve in South Africa until the end of the war in May 1902.

To be eligible for the King's South Africa Medal, recipients must have:

• Served with the British or colonial military forces, or as a civilian attached to such forces, beyond January 1, 1902, when King Edward VII was the reigning monarch.
• Remained in service or in a theatre of war in South Africa until at least May 31, 1902, when the conflict concluded.
• Been present in one or more of the specific actions or campaigns recognised for the awarding of clasps to the medal, similar to the earlier Queen's South Africa Medal.

The King's South Africa Medal is easily distinguishable due to its unique characteristics. The obverse showcases the crowned profile of King Edward VII, and it is inscribed with the words 'EDWARDVS VII REX IMPERATOR'. The reverse side of the medal illustrates Britannia holding the Union Flag, with two soldiers standing guard. The inscription 'SOUTH AFRICA' is embossed on the reverse, echoing its counterpart's design. The medal is made from silver, adding to its prestige and signifying the importance of the recognition it represents.

Unmounted Medals

If you order your medal unmounted, the medal and ribbon will be supplied as separate components. Miniature medals will be supplied with 15cm of ribbon and full size medals will be supplied with 30cm of ribbon.

King's South Africa Medal Full Size Court Mounted

The court mounting of medals involves securing medals to a stiff backing board, along with the placement of a brooch fitting on the board. This ensures that the medals remain firmly in place and do not shift or move about while being worn.

It is mandatory for active members of the Australian Defence Force to have their medals court mounted, as it is considered the appropriate method of presenting military honours in a professional and respectful manner. By doing so, the medals are given proper recognition and are displayed in a neat and organized fashion.

King's South Africa Medal Full Size Swing Mounted

The swing mounting of medals refers to the attachment of a medal to a ribbon that is allowed to hang freely from a brooch, which in turn is affixed to a uniform or clothing. This mounting style was commonly used for medals from the Boer War up to and including World War II, although there are no fixed guidelines or regulations regarding its use.

King's South Africa Medal Miniature Court Mounted

Miniature Court Mounted medals are mounted using the same method as Full size medals, yet they are typically worn to ceremonies were wearing full size medals would be impractical. These medals are commonly worn to all ceremonies that take place after 6 pm such as dinners.

King's South Africa Medal Miniature Swing Mounted

Miniature Swing Mounted medals are mounted using the same method as Full size medals, yet they are typically worn to ceremonies were wearing full size medals would be impractical. These medals are commonly worn to all ceremonies that take place after 6 pm such as dinners.

King's South Africa Medal Ribbon Bar

A ribbon bar is a small, rectangular display of ribbons worn on military uniforms to represent various honours and awards earned by the wearer. These ribbons are arranged in a specific order and are attached to a backing, which is then attached to the uniform. Ribbon bars are a compact and convenient way for military personnel to display their achievements and are often used in situations where a full-sized medal or award would be impractical.