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Interest in medal collecting is growing across the UK, as enthusiasts seek out tangible connections to history through these powerful tokens. From military honours to sports medals, each one tells a story that captures a moment in time, and they're becoming increasingly popular.

A Growing Hobby

Medal collecting used to be a niche pastime, but it's now attracting historians, families, and younger collectors. The appeal lies in the blend of history, artistry, and personal connection that each medal offers, and it's this mix that draws people in.

Every medal has a story, not just of the person who earned it, but of the world they lived in. That's what makes medal collecting a powerful way to engage with the past, says Peter Highton, curator at a military history museum in London.

Tracing Centuries of History

Medals have a long history, dating back to the Renaissance when Italian artist Pisanello created portrait medals to commemorate rulers and notable events. Over time, their use expanded to mark military victories, public service, and personal achievements, and they've continued to evolve.

Today, medals symbolise excellence in many fields, from acts of heroism to Olympic success, bridging the gap between historic traditions and modern recognition. And it's not just about the history - it's also about the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into making them.

The Allure of Military Medals

Military medals remain particularly prized among collectors, with decorations like the Victoria Cross and World War campaign medals commanding respect for their rarity and the courage they represent. Every engraved name, ribbon colour, and insignia carries meaning, and collectors often research the stories behind these medals.

Collectors describe this research as the most rewarding part of the hobby, uncovering connections to specific battles, regiments, and individual experiences. It's a way to connect with the past, and to honour the people who earned these medals.

Artistry and Craftsmanship

Medals are valued for their design and craftsmanship, with traditional medals featuring intricate engravings, high-relief portraits, and national symbols rendered in bronze, silver, or gold. Modern issues combine new materials and contemporary design styles, making them appealing to historians and design enthusiasts alike.

As technology has advanced, so has the art of medal-making, with modern techniques and materials being used to create complex and beautiful designs. And it's not just about the technical skill - it's also about the emotional resonance of these medals.

Preserving the Past Authenticity

reservation are key concerns within the medal-collecting community, with collectors encouraged to document the provenance of each piece. This includes recording who earned it, when, and under what circumstances, to ensure that the medal's story is accurately preserved.

Experts recommend storing medals in climate-controlled environments and using archival materials for protection. Simple steps, like keeping ribbons flat and avoiding direct sunlight, also help safeguard medals for future generations.

A Global Market

The international market for medals has grown, supported by online platforms that connect collectors, dealers, and historians. Specialist auctions frequently feature high-profile sales, with certain rare medals fetching record-breaking prices. Still, for many enthusiasts, the motivation remains personal rather than financial.

Family medals, often passed down through generations, serve as emotional touchstones that preserve memory and honour legacy. And it's this personal connection that keeps the hobby meaningful, even in a digital age.

Honouring Achievement

In an increasingly digital world, medal collecting offers something refreshingly tangible - a way to hold history in one's hands. Each medal stands as a reminder of dedication, courage, and accomplishment, linking individual stories to the broader human experience.

Whether displayed in museums or treasured at home, medals continue to serve their original purpose: to remember, to celebrate, and to honour.

If you have a collection of medals or medals tucked away in drawer and are interested in their value or wish to enter them into an auction then either call 0114 279 6959 or email us on info@ewbauctions.com