United Kingdom. A King's Medal For Service In The Cause Of Freedom To A Female Recipient, Cased

In silver, obverse illustrating the left-facing bust of King George VI, surrounded by the inscription "GEORGIVS VI D:G:BR:OMN:REX ET INDIAE IMP", designer marked "MP", reverse illustrating a medieval warrior in armour carrying a broken lance, his helmet at his feet, and being offered sustenance by a woman, surrounded by the inscription "FOR SERVICE IN THE CAUSE OF FREEDOM" and inscribed "THE KINGS MEDAL" below, designer marked "HP", measuring 36.3 mm (w) x 44 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pieced ball suspension, very dark patina, original bow-tied ribbon with pinback, extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, black pebbled exterior, inscribed "KING'S MEDAL FOR SERVICE" in gold-coloured ink on the lid, inside lid in white satin, padded and marked with the Royal Mint insignia, base with a recessed and slotted medal bed in white felt, measuring 115.5 mm (w) x 115.5 mm (h) x 25 mm (d), light discolouration evident in the white felt of the medal bed, case near extremely fine.

Footnote: The King's Medal for Service in the Cause of Freedom is a British medal instituted by King George VI on August 23, 1945. It was awarded to civilian foreign nationals, mainly of allied countries, who had given meritorious service to further the interests of the British Commonwealth or the Allied cause during the Second World War. Activities recognized included fundraising for British war relief, scientific research that aided the war effort and organizing ambulance services. The medal was awarded 2,539 times and was issued un-named. Those who helped British military personnel to escape the enemy, return from occupied areas or for other dangerous work for the British or Allied cause during the war were eligible for the King's Medal for Courage in the Cause of Freedom.