History

The King’s South Africa Medal was instituted by King Edward VII and authorised by Army Order in 1902. The Medal was awarded to British and Imperial troops who served in South Africa during the Anglo-Boer War since January 1, 1902, and who have completed 18 months of service before June 1, 1902. The King’s South Africa Medal was issued with the Queen’s South Africa Medal. 137 Medals were awarded to New Zealanders and 160 Medals were awarded to Canadians.

The King’s South Africa Medal was usually issued with the 2 clasps, “SOUTH AFRICA 1901,” and “SOUTH AFRICA 1902”. However, clasps were not issued to nursing sisters and only the “SOUTH AFRICA 1902” was issued to military personnel who missed qualifying for the “SOUTH AFRICA 1901” clasp, but returned in 1902 for 18 months of service. The Silver Medal with only the “SOUTH AFRICA 1902” clasp is rare.

A variety of different naming styles were used.