United Kingdom. A Royal Victorian Medal, Bronze Grade, Edward Vii (1901-1911), Specimen

In bronze gilt, marked "SPECIMEN" on the edge, obverse illustrating the left-facing bust of King Edward VII (1901-1911), reverse illustrating the Royal monogram on an ornamental shield within a laurel wreath, with a ribbon banner at the base inscribed "ROYAL VICTORIAN MEDAL", measuring 28.3 mm (w) x 42 mm (h), minor edge nicks, exhibiting wear spots in the gilt on both sides, very light contact, original ribbon, better than very fine.

Footnote: The Royal Victorian Medal (RVM) is a decoration established by Queen Victoria in April 1896. On May 14, 1912, King George V further confirmed the institution of the medal with an additional royal warrant. A part of the Royal Victorian Order, it is a reward for personal service to the Sovereign or the royal family, and is the personal gift of the sovereign. It differs from other grades of the order in appearance and in the way it is worn. The medal has three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold (silver gilt). Bars may be awarded to each level of Medal to denote subsequent awards. Recipients may continue to wear their original medal if they are awarded a higher level for further service. The medal may also be worn in addition to the badge of the Royal Victorian Order if this is later given to them. Recipients are entitled to use the post-nominal letters RVM.