Patina

A surface change that develops over time through ageing, handling, or environmental exposure. On medal alloys, patina may be natural, but corrosion or damage should be assessed separately.

Understanding medal terminology can help when researching military medals, campaign awards, gallantry decorations, medal groups, and inherited collections. If you have medals you would like to have assessed, learn more about our medal valuation service.

Related Medal Collecting Terms

Obverse

The principal or designated front face of a medal. It may feature a monarch, portrait, emblem, or other official design.

Reverse

The opposite face of a medal from the obverse. It may show a symbolic design, inscription, scene, or other information associated with the award.

Rim

The raised or defined border around the face of a medal. The rim can help protect the design and may carry identifying details on some awards.

Inscription

Words, letters, dates, or other text appearing on a medal. Inscriptions can identify an award, commemorate an event, or record a recipient's details.

Naming

The recipient details officially or privately engraved, impressed, or otherwise applied to a medal. The style and position of naming can help researchers assess its history and authenticity.

Impressed Naming

Recipient details formed by stamping or impressing characters into a medal's surface rather than engraving them by hand. Naming methods vary by award and period.