The WW2 British/Commonwealth Campaign Stars

[2dresq]

My question is in regards to determining the original issue of the British Campaign stars such as the France and Germany, Burma, Atlantic, Aircrew Europe, Italy, Pacific etc... to the post war and even reproductions of these awards.

My knowledge of British and Commonwealth medals is limited. Were the issued pieces engraved at all? Is there a way to identify the material of the ribbon?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I would like to acquire a Air Crew and Atlantic Star to my collection one day. I would like to have the knowledge to determine if it is a later re-issue/reproduction or if it is of war-time production and issued.

Thanks.

Justin G

Edited November 17, 2009 by 2dresq

[Michael Johnson]

Three countries officially named their Stars and Medals: Australia, India, and South Africa.

Australian medals show serial number and name. For Army units the number will have a State prefix, e.g. N for New South Wales, V for Victoria, Q for Queensland. If the letter is followed by an X, then the soldier was in the Australian Imperial Force, ie volunteers for overseas service. No X indicated Militia.

Indian Medals have regimental number, rank, name, regiment or corps

South African medals have serial number and name.

Edited November 17, 2009 by Michael Johnson

[Thomas Symmonds]

Hello Justin -

The best site that I have come across as far as helping to identify fake WWII campaign stars is North East Medals -

http://www.northeastmedals.co.uk/

Follow the links through Medal Guides - Britain. I think you will be impressed!

regards

Thomas

[leigh kitchen]

Some British Stars were privately engraved, the chemists "Boots" offered such a service.

[Guest Darrell]

Here's a decent link to help you choose an original ACE:

http://www.lancs.ac.uk/staff/hartleyi/acediscussion

[2dresq]

Thanks all for the great links and the information.

Regards,

JustinG