Context

This South Africa War medal was authorized in 1902. The medal was always issued with the Queen's Medal.

Eligibility and Criteria

The King's South Africa Medal was awarded to all troops who served in South Africa on or after 01 January 1901, and completed 18 months service before 01 June 1902.

Description

A circular, silver medal, 1.42 inches in diameter. Indented block or sloping capitals were used for the recipient's name. A plain, straight, suspender is attached to the medal with a double-toed claw for mounting.

The obverse shows King Edward VII, in Field Marshal's uniform, facing left, with the legend EDWARDVS VII REX IMPERATOR.

On the reserve, Britannia is depicted holding the Union Flag in her left hand and a laurel wreath in her right. The right background shows troops marching to the coast and the left shows two men-of-war. Around the top are the words: SOUTH AFRICA.

The ribbon is 1.25 inches wide, and consists of three equal stripes, light green, white, and orange.

Bars

South Africa 1901: Awarded for service during 1901 towards the required service of 18 months;

South Africa 1902: Awarded to those who served during 1902.

Canadians were almost always awarded the medal and both bars, although it was possible to receive the medal with only the 1902 bar.

Historical Notes

• There were 154 medals awarded to Canadians.