The 1914 Star, commonly known as the Mons Star, is a British First World War campaign medal awarded for service in France or Belgium between 5 August and 22 November 1914. Instituted under Special Army Order no. 350 in November 1917 and an Admiralty Fleet Order in January 1918, it was given to officers and men of the British and Indian Expeditionary Forces who served during this period. The starting date reflects the day after Britain declared war, while the end date marks the conclusion of the First Battle of Ypres. A total of 378,000 medals were awarded.
The medal is a bright bronze four-pointed star, surmounted by a crown, measuring 50mm in height and 44mm in width. Its design features two crossed swords (gladii) with upward blades, forming additional star points, overlaid by an oak wreath. The Royal Cypher of George V is at the wreath’s base, and a central scroll is inscribed “AUG 1914 NOV.” The reverse is plain, bearing the recipient’s details, “3-9872 PTe W. Mumford, 2 Wilts Reg.”
