Introduced as the premier award for gallantry, available to all ranks, to cover all actions since the outbreak of the Crimean War in 1854.

A cross pattee. Obverse - a lion statant gardant on the royal crown, with the words FOR VALOUR on a semi circular scroll. Reverse - a circular panel on which the date of the act for which the decoration was awarded would be engraved.

This reproduction Victoria Cross Medal is made from bronze plated lead-free pewter. It is supplied on a crimson ribbon attached to a card with an image of troops landing on a Normandy beach on D-Day on the front and historical information on the reverse.