War Medal 1939–1945

A British Second World War medal awarded for qualifying service in the armed forces and certain other eligible services. Eligibility depended on the applicable service and time requirements.

Understanding medal terminology can help when researching military medals, campaign awards, gallantry decorations, medal groups, and inherited collections. If you have medals you would like to have assessed, learn more about our medal valuation service.

Related Medal Collecting Terms

First World War

The global conflict fought from 1914 to 1918. Medals associated with the war can reflect campaign service, gallantry, and other qualifying contributions.

Second World War

The global conflict fought from 1939 to 1945. Associated medals include campaign stars, service medals, and awards for particular forms of service.

Waterloo Medal

A British medal authorised for qualifying participation in the battles of Ligny, Quatre Bras, and Waterloo in June 1815. It is an important early example of a British campaign medal issued to named recipients.

Crimea Medal

A British campaign medal awarded for qualifying service during the Crimean War of 1854–1856. Clasps can identify participation in specified battles or operations.

Military General Service Medal

A British campaign medal authorised in 1847 for qualifying army service in specified campaigns between 1793 and 1814. Clasps identify the campaigns or actions for which a recipient qualified.

Naval General Service Medal

A British naval campaign medal issued for qualifying actions and service during the period covered by its regulations. Its clasps record particular engagements or operations.