The Queen’s South Africa Medal

The Queen’s South Africa Medal was instituted by Queen Victoria to recognise service in the Boer War in South Africa between 1899 and 1902. On her death in 1901, a new medal called the King’s South Africa Medal was struck bearing the effigy of King Edward VII. These medals were the first awarded to New Zealand servicemen for military service outside New Zealand. Twelve of the possible 26 clasps were awarded to New Zealand military personnel.