A Guide to Replica Medals: Tips on Wearing and Storing Them

Military medals hold profound meaning, symbolising bravery, sacrifice, and service. For those who have served, these medals are tangible reminders of their dedication and heroism. However, for the rest of us, they provide a way to honour the sacrifices made by servicemen and women throughout history. Replica medals offer a unique opportunity to appreciate and celebrate these heroic deeds without needing the originals, which are often kept by the recipients or their families.

Replica medals are more than just copies; they are crafted with meticulous attention to detail to closely resemble the originals. They allow us to show respect for our heroes while preserving the legacy of their service.

The Many Benefits of Replica Medals

You don’t need to be a history buff or a collector to appreciate the value of a replica war medal. These items are designed with the same care and attention as the originals, making them a valuable addition for veterans and civilians alike. Let’s explore some of the benefits:

• Accessibility and Affordability: Replica medals are more accessible than their original counterparts, which are often exclusive to those who earned them. They provide a cost-effective way to own a piece of history without the high price tag associated with original medals.
• Preservation of Originals: For veterans and their families, wearing replicas on significant occasions such as Anzac Day helps preserve the condition of original medals. This ensures that the originals remain intact and protected from potential damage.
• Commemoration and Celebration: Replicas offer a way to commemorate and celebrate the service of loved ones. Wearing them at remembrance events allows families to honour their relatives’ military service without risking the loss or damage of the original medals.
• Educational Value: Collecting replicas can foster a deeper understanding of history, providing an opportunity to learn about the conflicts and acts of bravery associated with each medal. This can be particularly valuable for younger generations, helping to keep the stories of service and sacrifice alive.

Collecting Potential

For enthusiasts, replica medals provide an opportunity to build a comprehensive collection of Australian military medals. This would be nearly impossible with originals due to their rarity and cost. Collecting replicas allows individuals to own medals from different conflicts and eras, each telling a unique story of courage and service.

Additionally, replicas can be displayed in attractive wood cases, making them an eye-catching focal point in any room. They are not just collectibles; they are conversation starters, sparking discussions about history and heroism.

Preserving the Legacy and Memory

For veterans and their families, medals represent a legacy of service and sacrifice. Wearing replicas allows them to participate in commemorative events without risking the loss or damage of their originals. In cases where an original medal is lost or damaged, a replica can serve as a fitting replacement, ensuring the legacy and memory of the service are preserved and passed down through generations.

Tips for Wearing Medals

Wearing military medals requires adherence to specific traditions to show respect for the service they represent. Here are some guidelines:

1. Left Chest for Recipients: The original recipients of the medals wear them on their left chest, close to the heart. Full-size medals are typically worn during daytime events, while miniature versions are appropriate for evening functions.
2. Right Chest for Family Members: Family members of deceased veterans may wear replicas on their right chest to honour their loved ones during commemorative events. Only one group of medals should be worn by each relative to maintain the context and story behind them.
3. Replica Use: Wearing replicas allows for safe participation in events without risking damage to the original medals. This is especially useful for family members who wish to keep the originals safely stored.

Proper Storage

Proper storage is essential to maintain the condition of both original and replica medals. Here are some tips to help you store them safely:

1. Avoid Extremes: Store medals away from extremes of temperature, humidity, and light. Excessive moisture can cause metal to corrode and fabric to deteriorate, while high temperatures and strong light can lead to fading and damage.
2. Use Protective Boxes: Wooden boxes made of acid-free materials are ideal for storing medals. These boxes protect against scratches, tarnishing, and environmental damage.
3. Display Cases with UV Protection: If you wish to display your medals, consider using display cases with UV protection to prevent fading. These cases keep medals safe while allowing them to be viewed and appreciated.
4. Handling with Care: When handling medals, use soft cotton gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints or oils that could tarnish the metal. Clean them gently with a soft cloth and avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
   stories of bravery continue to inspire future generations.

To Sum Up

Military medals, whether original or replica, are symbols of honour, courage, and dedication. For veterans, they are reminders of their service and sacrifices, while for the rest of us, they offer a way to show appreciation and respect for our heroes. By choosing high-quality replica medals, wearing them with pride, and storing them properly, we can preserve the legacy of military service and ensure these stories of bravery continue to inspire future generations.