Summary

Great Britain, Polar Medals
Antarctic Exploration
Polar Medal 1904 - George V in silver with bars ANTARCTIC 1912 - 14
Other Details: Polar medal awarded to John Henry Collinson Close. Close was born in Sydney. He served in Rhodesia during the South African War and later became a teacher of physical culture at Sydney. He later took part in Mawson's expedition on the 'Aurora', was a member of the Main Base Party (Adelie Land) and several sledging parties, and spent two summers and one winter in the Antarctic.
This was the third form of polar exploration medal. It was instituted in 1904 to be awarded to those who had taken part in Captain Scott's Antarctic Expedition and has remained in use since. The obverse is changed to reflect change of Sovereign and bars are awarded to indicate the expedition. It depicts a the Royal Research Ship 'Discovery' in the ice with a sledging party wearing skis in the foreground.

Physical Description

A hexagonal silver medal (32 mm.) with mount and bar ANTARCTIC 1912 - 14. The obverse features a bust of King George V in Admiral's uniform facing left; around, GEORGIVS V BRITT: OMN: REX ET IND: IMP:.The reverse depicts the Royal Research Ship 'Discovery' in the ice with a sledging party of six wearing skis and carrying long poles in the foreground, the sledge has a rectangular sail. The edge is impressed J.H. CLOSE "AURORA".

Obverse Description

A bust of King George V in Admiral's uniform facing left; around, GEORGIVS V BRITT: OMN: REX ET IND: IMP:.

Reverse Description

The Royal Research Ship 'Discovery' in the ice with a sledging party of six wearing skis and carrying long poles in the foreground, the sledge has a rectangular sail.

Edge Description

J.H. CLOSE "AURORA"

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