Context

This First World War medal was authorized in December 1918. This medal is always issued with the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.

Eligibility and Criteria

The 1914-1915 Star was awarded to all who saw service in any theatre of war against the central powers between 5 August 1914 and 31 December 1915 except those eligible for the 1914 Star. Many Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) small ships were entitled to this star, as Canada considered 'overseas' to be service beyond the three mile limit.

Description

A bronze four-pointed star, 1.75 inches wide, with its uppermost point replaced by a crown. Across the face of the star are two crossed swords (blades upward), with the blades and hilts protruding to form four additional points of the star. For mounting purposes, a suspension ring at the top of the crown is stamped out solid with the star.

On the obverse, in the centre is a scroll with 1914-15. This is surrounded by a laurel wreath and on the bottom is the Royal Cypher GV (large G with smaller V inside).

The reverse is plain, except for the engravings of the recipient's number, rank and name for the first issue.

The watered ribbon is 1.25 inches wide and is shaded left to right: red, white, and blue.

Historical Notes

• There were 71,150 issued to Canadians with an overall total of 2,366,000 issued.