Updated May 4, 2026

Value of old military medals

Learn what affects old military medal value, including naming, campaign, group completeness, ribbons, documents, and auction evidence.

Supporting editorial image, not an auction lot. Use the evidence table below for market context.

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One clear answer

Learn what affects old military medal value, including naming, campaign, group completeness, ribbons, documents, and auction evidence.

Auction records are market evidence, not a final appraisal. Condition, authenticity, provenance, size, maker, completeness, legality, and demand can materially change value.

Quick checklist

Photograph the full item, maker marks, serials, inscriptions, measurements, materials, accessories, cases, scabbards, labels, and documents.
Document condition before cleaning: corrosion, sharpening, repairs, missing parts, moth damage, replaced components, fading, holes, and restoration.
Keep provenance, service records, capture papers, certificates, unit history, receipts, and related groups together.

Auction evidence from Appraisily's database

These records are examples, not a price promise for your item.

Category	Sale	Date	Lot	Realized	What it shows
Medal archive	Dawsons Auctioneers	Apr. 29, 2026	Captain Wilfred Edwin Even Garrod M.C. archive with WWI campaign medals and Military Cross	GBP 1,300	Named groups with documents can compare differently from loose medals.
War medals	Leski Auctions Pty Ltd	Apr. 28, 2026	South Africa WWI pair, Victory Medal and British War Medal	AUD 110	Naming, service context, and completeness affect value.
War medals	Sofe Design Auctions	Apr. 25, 2026	Two early WWII Soviet Russian war medals, Combat Services and For Valour	USD 275	Decoration type and authenticity need review.

When to use Appraisily

Use the free screener for first-pass identification and market direction. Use a professional appraisal for insurance, estate, donation, sale, or authenticity questions. See the professional sample report.

FAQ

Can Appraisily identify this from photos?

Photos can support first-pass identification when marks, condition, measurements, and provenance are visible.

Is auction evidence a final appraisal?

No. Auction records are market evidence only; condition, authenticity, provenance, completeness, legality, and demand can materially change value.

Should I clean or restore it first?

Usually no. Photograph the item as found before cleaning, polishing, sharpening, repair, deactivation, or restoration.

Need a clearer answer before you decide?

Upload photos. Appraisily identifies the item, checks real sales where available, and shows whether a free screen or professional report makes sense.

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