WWI medals are becoming more sought after in the international militaria market. Particularly sought after medals include those awarded to ANZACs who landed at Gallipoli or took part in the Charge at Beersheba. The average selling price for a WWI Trio can vary from $500 to $2500, depending on condition and provenance of the medals. The “trio” consists of the 1914-1915 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal. Medal groups with gallantry awards can fetch four or five times more.
Collector and military history enthusiast, Wynand Greffrath explains that "many Australians are simply unaware that their ancestors were awarded medals for service during the Great War". He also added that medals are often stored for safekeeping by family and relatives and are then forgotten about. "There has been a recent resurgence in interest in WWI medals, coinciding with the centenary of the Great War and significant battles in which Australians took part" according to Greffrath.
He adds that “due to the value of these medal groups, many people are now opting to have affordable replica sets made, not only for security, but also to gift to other family members who have an interest in their common ancestor’s service". Quality replica sets can be purchased for a fraction of the originals' price from reputable sources. Many people choose to wear these replica sets to commemorate an ancestor’s military service on occasions such as ANZAC Day.
Visit our Medals Information Page for more information and help.
Wynand recently joined the medals team at Military Shop and is ready to help veterans and families with medal enquiries.
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