*British, WW2, Defence Medal with Original Issue Box and Paperwork to H.G. Surridge of Romford, Essex*
An original Second World War British Defence Medal retaining its original OHMS issue box, award forwarding slip, tissue wrapper, and “Campaign Stars, Clasps and Medals” entitlement leaflet, addressed to “Mr. H.G. Surridge, 8 Cranham Road, Romford, Essex.” The medal remains mounted on its original ribbon and is housed together with the official cardboard transmission box bearing wartime postal markings and return address details for the Essex T. & A.F. Association, Chelmsford.
The silver-coloured cupro-nickel Defence Medal bears the crowned effigy of King George VI to the obverse with the legend “GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OMN:REX F:D:IND:IMP.” The reverse features the crowned oak tree flanked by two heraldic lions above the date range “1939–1945” and the inscription “THE DEFENCE MEDAL.” The ribbon retains strong original colour with its characteristic flame-orange centre stripe bordered by green and black edges.
The accompanying Army Council forwarding note and campaign ribbon leaflet are desirable survivals, particularly remaining with the named issue carton addressed directly to the recipient.
Approx. Measurements – Medal diameter: 36 mm. Issue box approx.: 13.8 cm x 9 cm.
History Note:
Instituted in May 1945, the Defence Medal was awarded to military personnel and civilians for non-operational service during the Second World War, including home defence, civil defence, overseas base duties, and other qualifying wartime service. Unlike campaign stars awarded for active operational theatres, the Defence Medal recognised sustained service supporting Britain’s war effort both at home and abroad. Original named postal boxes and accompanying paperwork are increasingly sought after as they provide direct provenance to the original recipient.
*Condition*
The medal remains in very good original condition with light age-related handling wear and attractive tone. Ribbon is immaculate and appears original and retains strong colour. The original OHMS cardboard issue box shows edge wear, creasing, and minor compression consistent with age and postal handling. Paperwork displays folds, light foxing, and age toning, while the original tissue wrapper survives in fragile condition with tears and creasing. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3231E_9469244558
