WW2 Canadian The 1939 to 1945 Star Full Size Medal

The 1939 to 1945 Star is a campaign medal instituted by the United Kingdom in 1943 to recognize service during the Second World War. This full size version represents the award issued to personnel of the Canadian armed forces for operational service between 3 September 1939 and 2 September 1945. The medal is a six-pointed star made of yellow copper zinc alloy, measuring 44 mm in height and width. The obverse features the royal cypher “GRI VI” (for King George VI) surmounted by a crown, with the inscription “THE 1939-1945 STAR” around the lower circumference. The ribbon is 32 mm wide, comprising equal stripes of dark blue, red, and light blue, symbolizing the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force. Eligibility criteria required a minimum period of operational service, varying by branch. The medal is an important artifact reflecting Canada’s contribution to World War II military operations.