Parts of a Medal

Terminology:
 

A medal is made up of seven basic parts. These parts are the Obverse, Reverse, Suspension, Suspension Ring, Ribbon, Top Bar, and Brooch.

Not all medals have all of these parts, and some medals have more items such as buckles, devices, and attachments. (Coming soon)
 

If you have a question about the terms used here, please post a question in our forums!

The Obverse

The Obverse is the front of the medal. This is the side that faces out when worn by the person.

The Reverse

The Reverse is the back side of the medal. This is the side that is against the body when worn. It is often engraved with the recipients name.

The Reverse

The Reverse is the back side of the medal. This is the side that is against the body when worn. It is often engraved with the recipients name.

The Top Bar

Many medals have a Top Bar that helps attach the brooch to the ribbon. Many top bars are etched or engraved with names or places. Not all medals have top bars.

The Brooch

The Brooch is used to attach the medal to the uniform. It is some form of pin.

You can see a wide variety of brooches here: Types of Brooches

The Suspension

The Suspension is used to attach the medal to the suspension ring. It comes in several versions including Narrow Cylinder, Tappered Narrow Cylinder, Wire, Thick Wire, Knob, Beveled, Barrel, Beveled Lug, Tab, Ball, Small Ball, Two-Ring and others.

The Suspension Ring

The Suspension Ring is used to attach the medal to the ribbon. The ribbon is folded through the suspension ring during the mounting process.

Rim Engraving

Some medals may have the rim engraved with the name of the person the medal was awarded to, or have a number stamped or etched into it that may be traced back to the person it was awarded to.