Collecting medals is captivating because each medal embodies a unique piece of history, often tied to significant events and personal acts of valor. The stories behind these awards reveal the bravery and sacrifices of individuals, creating a deep emotional connection for collectors.
Discover the fascinating world of medal collecting, where history, artistry, and personal narratives converge. Here is a curated list of essential books to deepen your understanding and appreciation of this rewarding hobby. These recommended readings should provide a comprehensive guide to starting and enhancing your medal collection, ensuring you gain the most from your collecting journey.
British Gallantry Awards by Peter Duckers
“British Gallantry Awards” by Peter Duckers is an authoritative and meticulously researched guide to British military honors.
Duckers provides a comprehensive history of gallantry awards, detailing their origins, criteria, and the heroic acts they commemorate. The book is richly illustrated with photographs and descriptions of medals, making it a valuable resource for collectors and historians alike.
Duckers’ engaging writing style and depth of knowledge bring to life the stories behind the medals, offering insights into the bravery and sacrifice of those who earned them. This book is an essential addition to any military history enthusiast’s library.
Medal Yearbook by John W. Mussell
“Medal Yearbook” by John W. Mussell is an indispensable resource for both novice and experienced medal collectors. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on a wide array of medals from around the world, making it a go-to reference for enthusiasts seeking to expand their collections or deepen their knowledge. The book is meticulously organized, featuring high-quality photographs, detailed descriptions, and the historical context of each medal, ensuring readers understand not only the physical aspects but also the stories behind these awards.
Mussell’s expertise shines through in his thorough explanations of the criteria and significance of various medals, making complex information accessible and engaging. The yearbook also includes current market values, which is particularly useful for collectors interested in the investment aspect of their hobby. Additionally, the book offers tips on authentication and preservation, helping collectors maintain the integrity and value of their medals.
Overall, “Medal Yearbook” is a well-rounded and informative guide that stands out for its depth of content and practical advice.
British Campaign Medals 1815-1914 by Peter Duckers
“British Campaign Medals 1815-1914” by Peter Duckers is an authoritative and meticulously researched guide to the medals awarded to British soldiers during this pivotal century. Duckers provides a detailed account of each medal, covering the context of the campaigns, the criteria for awarding the medals, and the historical significance of each piece. The book is richly illustrated with high-quality photographs, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the medals’ design and symbolism.
Duckers’ expertise is evident in his clear, informative writing, making complex historical details accessible to both novice and experienced collectors. The inclusion of personal anecdotes and accounts adds depth and human interest, linking the medals to the stories of the individuals who earned them.
This book is not only a valuable reference for collectors but also a compelling read for anyone interested in British military history. It provides insights into the bravery and sacrifices of British soldiers and the evolution of military honors during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Collecting Military Medals: A Beginner's Guide by Colin Narbeth
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“Collecting Military Medals: A Beginner’s Guide” by Colin Narbeth is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in the fascinating hobby of medal collecting. Narbeth provides a comprehensive overview of military medals, covering their history, significance, and the basics of building a collection. His approachable writing style makes complex topics accessible, offering practical advice on identifying, sourcing, and valuing medals. The book is filled with useful tips on how to avoid common pitfalls and how to authenticate medals, ensuring novice collectors can start their journey with confidence.
High-quality photographs and detailed descriptions of various medals enhance the learning experience, making it easier for readers to recognize different types and understand their contexts. Narbeth also delves into the stories behind the medals, adding a human element that makes the subject matter even more engaging.
Overall, “Collecting Military Medals: A Beginner’s Guide” is a must-read for anyone new to the hobby. Its blend of historical insight, practical advice, and personal stories provides a well-rounded introduction that will inspire and educate aspiring collectors.
British Military Medals: A Guide for the Collector and Family Historian by Peter Duckers
“British Military Medals: A Guide for the Collector and Family Historian” by Peter Duckers is an essential resource for both collectors and those interested in family history. Duckers offers a thorough exploration of British military medals, detailing their origins, the conflicts they represent, and the stories of the individuals who earned them. The book is richly illustrated with high-quality images, providing clear examples of various medals and their distinctive features.
Duckers’ expertise shines through in his detailed descriptions and the historical context he provides for each medal. This guide not only helps collectors identify and understand the value of their medals but also assists family historians in uncovering the military service of their ancestors. The book includes practical advice on how to research medals, tips on authentication, and insights into the collecting market, making it a valuable tool for anyone interested in this field.
Overall, “British Military Medals” is a comprehensive and engaging guide that combines historical depth with practical advice, making it an indispensable addition to any collector’s or historian’s library. Duckers’ ability to connect personal stories with broader historical events makes this book both informative and compelling.
Orders, Decorations and Medals by Paul Hieronymussen
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“Orders, Decorations and Medals” by Paul Hieronymussen is a seminal work that provides a comprehensive overview of military and civil awards from around the world. Hieronymussen meticulously catalogs a wide array of medals, offering detailed descriptions and the historical context of each. The book is richly illustrated with high-quality photographs that capture the intricate details and craftsmanship of these decorations.
Hieronymussen’s expertise and thorough research are evident throughout, making this book an invaluable resource for collectors, historians, and anyone interested in phaleristics (the study of orders and medals). The depth of information, combined with the accessible writing style, makes complex subjects understandable for both beginners and seasoned collectors.
Overall, “Orders, Decorations and Medals” stands out for its exhaustive coverage and scholarly approach, making it an essential addition to any serious collector’s library. Hieronymussen’s work not only serves as a detailed reference but also as an engaging exploration of the history and significance of these honors.
Medals and Decorations of the British Army and Navy by John Horsley Mayo
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“Medals and Decorations of the British Army and Navy” by John Horsley Mayo is an authoritative and exhaustive reference on British military honors. Mayo meticulously catalogs the various medals and decorations awarded to British service members, providing detailed descriptions and the historical contexts in which these honors were bestowed. The book is richly illustrated with images and engravings, offering readers a visual appreciation of the medals’ craftsmanship and design.
Mayo’s work stands out for its depth and precision, making it an indispensable resource for collectors, historians, and military enthusiasts. His comprehensive approach ensures that readers gain a thorough understanding of the significance and criteria of each award. Additionally, the book delves into the stories and achievements of the individuals who received these decorations, adding a personal dimension to the historical data.
Overall, “Medals and Decorations of the British Army and Navy” is a must-have for anyone interested in the rich heritage of British military awards. Its blend of detailed research, historical narrative, and visual documentation makes it both an educational and engaging read.
For Bravery in the Field: Great War British Army Recipients of the Military Medal by Peter Warrington
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“For Bravery in the Field” by Peter Warrington is an insightful and meticulously researched tribute to the soldiers of the British Army who received the Military Medal during World War I. Warrington delves deep into the personal histories and acts of valor of these brave individuals, providing a compelling narrative that brings their extraordinary courage to life. The book is well-organized, with detailed accounts of various battles and the specific deeds that earned these soldiers their medals.
Warrington’s thorough research and engaging writing style make this book an invaluable resource for historians and military enthusiasts alike. The inclusion of personal letters, photographs, and official citations enriches the reader’s understanding of the profound sacrifices and heroism displayed by these men. This book not only honors their memory but also serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
Overall, “For Bravery in the Field” is a must-read for anyone interested in military history, offering a deeply personal and moving account of the recipients of the Military Medal during the Great War.
