*British, WWII, Italy Star Campaign Medal – George VI Issue, Original Ribbon*
An original Second World War British Italy Star campaign medal, awarded for operational service in the Italian Campaign between 1943 and 1945. This attractive six-pointed bronze star bears the crowned Royal Cypher of King George VI (“GRI VI”) to the centre, surrounded by the title THE ITALY STAR, and is suspended from its correct campaign ribbon of red, white, green, white, and red—reflecting the national colours of Italy.
The medal is struck in the standard yellow copper-zinc alloy typical of wartime star issues, with the reverse left plain as issued, since these medals were officially unnamed. The original ribbon remains present, showing the instantly recognisable Italian tricolour-inspired pattern.
History Note:
Instituted in May 1945, the Italy Star was awarded to personnel of the British and Commonwealth forces who served in Sicily, mainland Italy, Corsica, Sardinia, Greece, Yugoslavia, the Aegean, and the Dodecanese during the qualifying period from 11 June 1943 to 8 May 1945. Eligibility covered service with the Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Merchant Navy, and supporting Commonwealth forces engaged in the long and hard-fought Mediterranean campaign against Axis forces.
The Italian Campaign was one of the longest continuous campaigns fought by British and Commonwealth troops during WWII, from the invasion of Sicily through to the final surrender of German forces in Italy in 1945. Medals from this theatre remain highly collectible, particularly with original period ribbons and untouched patina.
*Condition*
Good original condition overall with attractive aged bronze patina and honest service wear. Ribbon remains attached and appears period, showing wear, fraying, and some loose stitching to the upper fold from age and handling. Reverse plain as issued. A very presentable original example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3091AE_6981238744
