Service Medal (1917-1921), Bronze

SKU: 02.IRL.0111.101.01

Estimated market value:

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Estimated market value:

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Attributes

country

Ireland
date of institution

May 26, 1942
remarks

There are additional versions of the Bronze Medal that vary in size, but these were manufactured privately and purchased by the recipient. They were supposed to be manufactured by Ministry-approved jewellers, but there are some examples that were manufactured by other unapproved firms. The Bronze Medals manufactured by Ministry-approved jewellers will have a maker’s mark on the reverse.

History

The Service Medal (1917-1921) was awarded for participation in the struggle for Irish independence between the Easter Uprising in 1916 and the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1921. It is referred to colloquially as the “Black and Tan” Medal, as the conflict itself was often referred to as the “Black and Tan War.” It was awarded with a "COMRAC" (Combat) clasp to those who took part in military operations.

The Bronze Medal features an obverse inscription that translates to “Ireland, The Fight for Freedom.” Approximately 70000 were issued.