Issued to commonwealth combatants during the early stages of World War One. This medal had two varieties. The 1914 Star also known as the Mons star, and the 1914-15 Star. Never issued twice – it was always one or the other with the 1914 star having the highest in prominence.

1914 Star (left in picture)

Was issued to those that severed in in France or Belgium between the  5th August and 22nd November 1914. There was also a clasp for the 1914 star awarded if the recipient came under enemy fire or was in range of enemy artillery but not many issued as it had to be claimed by request and by the time it was authorised many had either left or were deceased.

378,000 1914 stars were awarded.

1914 – 1915 Star (right in picture)

For those that served between 5 August 1914 and 31 December 1915 (however 1914 Star had prominence). This included most Australians that served in Gallipoli. 1914-15 Star had a broader interpretation on theatre of war hence some who served in 1914 were entitled to the 1914-15 star and not the 1914 Star.

Of note, discharge papers were stamped with the three main WW1 medals. (1914-15 Star, Commonwealth War medal and the Victory Medal). The NE on the service records denotes “Not Eligible” I.e. Served 1916 or after.

2,366,000 1914-15 stars issued