*British, WW1, Battle of Jutland Commemorative Medal by Spink & Son, London – 31 May 1916 Naval Memorial Issue*
An original First World War Battle of Jutland commemorative medal, struck in 1916 by Spink & Son of London to commemorate the naval battle fought between the British Grand Fleet and the German High Seas Fleet on 31 May 1916.
The medal is struck in white metal and measures approximately 4.5 cm in diameter. The obverse features a bold naval design with an upright trident behind two crossed flags — the White Ensign of the Royal Navy and the Union Jack — symbolising Britain’s naval power. At the centre is a small shield bearing the date “31 MAY 1916.” Around the border appears the inscription:
“TO · THE · GLORIOUS · MEMORY · OF · THOSE · WHO · FELL · THAT · DAY.”
The reverse carries a detailed oak-leaf wreath surrounding a commemorative inscription recording the battle and naming the senior commanders of the British fleet:
**“MAY 31, 1916 THE GERMAN FLEET ATTACKED OFF THE COAST OF JUTLAND AND DRIVEN BACK INTO PORT WITH HEAVY LOSS.
ADMIRAL SIR JOHN JELLICOE COMMANDER IN CHIEF. VICE ADMIRAL SIR DAVID BEATTY COMMANDING BATTLE CRUISER FLEET.”**
At the base of the reverse appears the maker’s mark:
“SPINK & SON 1916.”
These medals were designed by Admiral Prince Louis of Battenberg (later the Marquess of Milford Haven) and produced shortly after the battle. They were sold to the public with proceeds supporting naval orphanages and charities for the families of sailors lost in the action.
The Battle of Jutland remains the largest naval engagement of the First World War and the only full-scale clash between the British Grand Fleet and the German High Seas Fleet. Although tactically indecisive, the engagement ensured that Germany never again seriously challenged British naval control of the North Sea.
Approx. Measurements – Diameter: 4.5 cm
*Condition* Good overall condition for age. The medal retains clear detail to both sides with readable inscriptions and visible design elements including the trident, flags, and oak wreath. There is general surface wear, light rubbing, and areas of tarnish consistent with age and handling. Minor marks and small areas of oxidation are present. The edge shows typical wear from age. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
