Over 400,000 individuals, including members of the Armed Forces, frontline emergency service workers, civil servants, and those who actively contributed to the King's Coronation, received the newly unveiled Coronation Medal as a token of gratitude from the nation. The Medal, designed to commemorate the historic service, was awarded to everyone who actively supported the Coronation on 6 May.
Eligible recipients included choristers, police officers, military personnel, civil servants, St John Ambulance personnel, and those directly involved in the Coronation's delivery. The Medal was also presented to serving frontline members of the police, fire, emergency services, prison services, and armed forces who had completed five full calendar years of service. In total, more than 400,000 Coronation Medals were issued.
The design of the Coronation Medal featured a double portrait of Their Majesties on the front, while the reverse displayed a version of the Royal Cypher, a laurel wreath, and the date of the Coronation. The ribbon incorporated red, blue, and white vertical stripes, representing the colours of the Union Flag, and was made of nickel silver plated in nickel.
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer stated that the Coronation Medal served as a reminder of each individual's significant role in this historical moment, honouring those who went above and beyond in serving their country. Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden added that the Medal was a fitting recognition of the dedication and selfless service demonstrated by the armed forces, civil servants, and other public servants.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman emphasised the Medal's symbolism, acknowledging the critical role emergency services played in the Coronation and in protecting and supporting citizens daily. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace highlighted the unique bond between the Armed Forces and the Monarch, with the Coronation Medal serving to celebrate and reaffirm that connection as King Charles was crowned the new Monarch.
Martin Jennings, who designed the double portrait of the King and Queen Consort on the Medal's front, also created the official effigy of the King for the new coins issued by the Royal Mint. The Coronation Medal was manufactured by Worcestershire Medal Service Ltd in Birmingham.
The tradition of Coronation Medals dates to the reign of King James I when the first Medal was awarded in 1603. This Medal featured a bust of James I wearing the costume of a Roman Emperor. Its reverse included a crowned lion rampant holding a beacon and a wheat sheaf.
