It takes into account all of the additional costs incurred and the time it may take to locate a suitable specimen, possibly from a collector. Insurance value: Based on the replacement costs involved in acquiring a similar medal, this is the highest of all the values. Often 50 years of age or older, these medals tend to change hands for the ‘current market value’ that a collector is prepared to pay to add a specimen to their collection. No amount of money could convince them to part with it.Ĭollector value: The ‘secondary market’ concerns the trade of medals which did not belong to a direct friend or family member. Sentimental value: Few people who inherit a medal will not sense its sentimental value and, to many, this can be priceless. For example, a George Cross was sold for £93,000 in 2012, but the silver in it is only worth about £10. Multiply that number by the daily metal price and the answer is the bullion value, once it’s been melted for reuse.Īlways remember that in most cases a medal will usually be worth much more than its bullion value. Once you have this figure, weigh the medal and multiply its weight in grams by the metal’s fineness.
To learn the bullion value of your metal, take a look at the exact fineness that is often marked on the medal:
The price of precious metals like silver, gold and platinum is always measured in dollars per ounce and can vary on a daily basis. In our role as military medal specialists, we are often asked ‘How much are my medals worth?’įor that reason alone, discussing the four main values of a medal appears to be a logical place to start.īullion value: Put simply, this is the value of the metal with which the medal has been made. Medals from regiments like the Royal Engineers and the Royal Artillery are not difficult to find, so they are, as a rule, worth less than those given to elite British forces such as the Parachute Regiment, the Royal Marines, the SAS and SBS.īut, as this guide will reveal, the ‘market value’ of a medal is normally dependent on the detailed background of the award. Whether you choose to collect medals based on their type, historical significance, issuing country, a specific campaign, or regiment or service, their value will depend on their scarcity and a multitude of other factors. When different versions of the same medal exist, the ribbons, bars or clasps accompanying them are of great importance because they can help to identify the exact recipient.
Unlike coins, which enter circulation in large numbers, medals do not circulate and are generally unique to an individual. Offering a unique insight into past events of major significance, medals are a lasting tribute to the sacrifices made by soldiers who have fought in conflicts all across the world. The vital factors to look out for when researching the valuation of medalsĬollecting military medals will always have an enduring appeal because it is such a great way to discover about history and the important roles people have played.