400,000 to Receive New King’s Coronation Medal
Armed Forces members, frontline emergency workers, and those helping to stage The King’s Coronation will get a special thank-you medal. The brand-new Coronation Medal design was unveiled today, set to honour over 400,000 people involved in the historic event on 6 May.
Who’s Getting the Medal?
- Armed Forces personnel with five years’ service or those taking part in Coronation events
- Frontline police, fire, emergency services, and prison workers with five years’ service
- Volunteers and staff actively supporting the Coronation ceremonies, including choristers and St John Ambulance personnel
- Living recipients of the George Cross or Victoria Cross
This special medal marks the first time in centuries the nation has thanked so many public servants and volunteers for their role in a royal occasion.
Striking Medal Design Celebrates Majesty and Service
The medal features a double portrait of King Charles and Queen Camilla, designed by Martin Jennings, the same artist behind the King’s official coin portrait. The back shows the Royal Cypher, a laurel wreath, and the Coronation date. It’s crafted in nickel silver with a ribbon in bold red, white, and blue stripes – a nod to the Union Flag.
Top Officials Praise Medal as a Symbol of Service
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer: “The Coronation Medal will act as a reminder of the important part each person has played in this moment of history. From our Armed Forces who protect our country to the emergency services who care for us at home, alongside those volunteers… I am delighted we can mark their contribution to this special day.”
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden: “The Coronation would not be possible without the dedication and selfless service shown by our armed forces and other public servants. This Medal is a fitting recognition of their efforts, and a thank you from the nation.”
Home Secretary Suella Braverman: “This Medal symbolises the vital role emergency services will play in this once-in-a-lifetime event, and recognises the everyday heroes across police, fire, and rescue services protecting us all.”
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace: “Our Armed Forces and the Monarch share a unique bond. The Coronation Medal celebrates that bond as King Charles is crowned our new Monarch.”
Coronation Medal: A Historic Tradition
The Coronation Medal tradition dates back to 1603 under King James I, whose medal showed him as a Roman Emperor with a crowned lion and wheat sheaf on the reverse. This new medal honours centuries of royal history while recognising today’s heroes behind the scenes.
