.916 ozt Defence Silver Medal 1939-1945

The Defence Medal is a campaign medal awarded to British Commonwealth citizens for non-operational military and certain civilian services during World War II.

The Defence Medal was instituted by the United Kingdom in May 1945 to recognize the contributions of military and civilian personnel during World War II. It was awarded for service in non-operational areas or in regions subjected to threats, such as air attacks, from 3 September 1939 to 8 May 1945 (or 2 September 1945 for certain territories).

The Defence Medal measures 36 millimeters in diameter. The obverse features the effigy of King George VI, while the reverse displays the Royal Crown resting on an oak sapling, flanked by a lion and a lioness above stylized waves. The years "1939" and "1945" are inscribed, along with the words "THE DEFENCE MEDAL". 

The Defence Medal serves as a recognition of the sacrifices made by those who contributed to the war effort, whether on the front lines or in supportive roles at home. It symbolizes the collective effort of the British Commonwealth in facing the challenges of World War II.

Members of the British Armed Forces who served in non-operational roles, including those stationed in the UK, were eligible. This included personnel in the Home Guard and Civil Defence services.

Civilian services eligible for the medal included those involved in Civil Defence, fire services, police, and other approved civilian roles during the war. 

The qualifying period varied; typically, military personnel needed to serve for three years, while those in specific roles, like mine and bomb disposal units, qualified after just three months.

Content .916 troy oz. fine silver

Mint: Royal Canadian Mint

Weight approx. : 35.63 g or 28.504 grams fine silver

Diameter approx. : 36.13 mm

Thickness approx. : 3.15 mm

Purity: 80%

Years: 1939 to 1945

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