Old military medals often carry more than just metal and ribbons—they hold stories, honour, and sometimes, surprising value. Whether they were passed down through family or collected over time, many people in the UK are sitting on medals that could be worth more than they think.

Let’s explore how you can understand what you have, and how to sell military medals UK in the best possible way.

Why Military Medals Hold Value

Military medals are more than just historic items. To collectors, historians, and even museums, these medals are valuable because they represent bravery, specific events, or rare military campaigns. Some medals, especially those from World War I or World War II, can be highly sought after—especially if they belonged to a soldier with a known background.

Even medals without a full story can attract buyers if they’re rare, part of a set, or well-preserved.

First Steps: Identifying What You Have

Before selling, take a closer look at your medals. Check for:

• Inscribed names or numbers
• Campaign names or service dates
• Original ribbons or boxes

You don’t need to be an expert. A quick online search or comparison on auction sites like eBay can give you a rough idea. Still unsure? You can always contact an expert or a professional buyer to help you with identification.

Research the Medal’s History

Want to get the most value from your vintage toys? Here are some tips to follow:

If a medal has a name or number engraved, you might be able to trace the soldier it was awarded to. In the UK, several online records—like those from the National Archives—can help you do this. Medals with a traceable backstory often sell for more.

Knowing a bit about the background adds to the emotional and historical value, which many collectors deeply appreciate.

Where to Sell Military Medals in the UK

You’ve got a few good options when it comes to selling:

• Auction Houses: Ideal for rare or high-value medals. You’ll pay a fee, but the exposure can be worth it.
• Online Platforms: eBay or specialist sites for militaria can connect you directly with collectors.
• Specialist Dealers: Some buyers focus only on military antiques. You might get a fair quote quickly.

If you’re looking for a simple and secure process, you can also sell through trusted services like antiquecashmonkey.co.uk, where professionals guide you through the entire selling process.

How to Get the Best Price

To make sure you get a fair deal, keep these things in mind:

• Don’t clean the medals: Many people try to polish old medals, but this can reduce their value.
• Group them if possible: Medals awarded together as a set often sell better than one at a time.
• Keep original packaging: Boxes, documents, or certificates can increase value.

Taking good, clear photos from different angles and writing honest descriptions also helps when selling online.

Avoid Common Selling Mistakes

It’s easy to rush and sell medals for less than they’re worth. Here are some things to avoid:

• Don’t sell without research: Take your time to learn what you have.
• Avoid lowball offers from pawn shops: They may not know the true value.
• Don’t assume all medals are the same: A small detail can make a big difference.

Final Thoughts

Selling military medals in the UK is not just about making money. It’s also about preserving history and passing it on to someone who values it. Whether it’s one medal or a full collection, take your time, learn what you have, and choose the right place to sell.

With a little effort, you can turn an old medal into a meaningful sale—and ensure that its story continues.