THE NEW ZEALAND MEDAL

Obverse: Diademed head of Queen Victoria with a veil covering the back of her head. Around the head is the legend "VICTORIA D:G:BRITT:REG:F:D:".

Reverse: In the centre, surrounded by a wreath of laurel, is the date or dates of service, although some medals are undated. Above are the words "NEW ZEALAND" and below "VIRTUTIS HONOR".

Size: 31mm in diameter.

Ribbon: 33mm wide, dark blue with a 10mm wide red stripe down the centre.

Suspension: By means of a straight ornamental swivelling suspender of a design only used on this medal.

This medal was awarded for service in New Zealand during the wars of 1845-47 and 1861-66. It was issued to members of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Army who fought in New Zealand, and to members of various New Zealand units who were under fire.

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