Victoria Cross

Product History

Instituted: January 1854-56

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

Of the 1,354 awards given since 1856, 832 have go to the army, 107 to the Royal Navy, 31 to the Royal Air force, 10 to the Royal Marines and 4 to civilians.

Description: A cross pettee. (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 is engraved the date of the act for which the decoration was awarded. The cross is suspended by a ring from a seriffed 'V' attached to a suspension bar decorated with laurel leaves. The reverse of the suspension bar is engraved with the name, rank and ship, regiment or squadron of the recipient.

This medal (full size) was originally made from the bronze of Russian guns captured in the Crimea. Guns captured in other conflicts have also been used at various periods. 

Product Information