A commemorative medal issued in 1991 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Arctic Convoys of the Second World War. The circular medal is finished in a silver-tone metal and suspended from a simple loop suspension.
The obverse features a stylised globe showing the Arctic region and convoy routes, surrounded by the inscription “ARCTIC CONVOYS 1941–1945.” The reverse depicts a convoy warship at sea beneath crossed flags representing the United Kingdom and the Soviet Union, with a Soviet naval flag above. Around the outer border again appears the wording “ARCTIC CONVOYS”, with the date “1991” below.
This type of medal was produced for veterans and commemorative organisations to mark the immense sacrifices of the Allied merchant and naval personnel who sailed the hazardous Arctic supply routes to the Soviet Union during the war.
Approx. Measurements – Diameter: 38 mm.
*History Note*
Between 1941 and 1945, the Arctic Convoys formed one of the most dangerous maritime supply operations of the Second World War. These convoys transported vital war matériel from Britain and Allied ports to the Soviet Union via the ports of Murmansk and Archangel.
The route across the Arctic Ocean exposed ships to extreme conditions and constant enemy attack. Convoys faced: German U-boats; Luftwaffe aircraft based in occupied Norway; Surface raiders such as the battleship Tirpitz and Ice, storms, and months of darkness in polar waters Despite these hazards, 78 convoys delivered approximately 4 million tons of supplies, including tanks, aircraft, fuel, ammunition, and food vital to the Soviet war effort on the Eastern Front. Losses were heavy: 85 merchant ships; 16 Royal Navy warships and thousands of merchant seamen and naval personnel.
For decades after the war, Arctic convoy veterans campaigned for recognition of their service. Although this 1991 medal was a commemorative issue rather than an official British campaign award, it reflects the growing recognition of their contribution. Official recognition later came when the British government instituted the Arctic Star campaign medal in 2012.
*Condition*
Good overall condition with light age wear and patina to the surface. Suspension loop present. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
