Afghanistan - Kingdom Grand Merit Medal, III Class (Bronze Grade)
General Information
Country: Afghanistan (Kingdom era)
Type: Grand Merit Medal, III Class
Material: Bronze
Diameter: 38.20 mm
Suspension: The suspension ring has been soldered to the medal (please refer to pictures for details).
This medal is a historical decoration from the Kingdom of Afghanistan, awarded for merit and service.
Design Features
Material:
Made of bronze, indicating the III Class (lower-grade class, with higher classes in silver or gold).
Retains a historical patina, common for bronze medals of this period.
Size:
38.20 mm in diameter, which aligns with standard Afghan medals from the Kingdom era.
Suspension:
The suspension ring has been soldered to the medal, which might be a period modification or a later repair.
This aspect should be considered when assessing originality and condition.
Condition
Metalwork:
The bronze surface is in good overall condition, with signs of age-related wear.
Suspension:
The soldered suspension ring suggests either an official reinforcement or a field repair.
Overall Presentation:
Despite the suspension modification, the medal maintains its original design integrity.
Historical and Collectible Significance
Kingdom of Afghanistan Era:
Issued during the monarchical period before Afghanistan transitioned into a republic in 1973.
Likely awarded for military, governmental, or civil merit.
III Class (Bronze Grade):
A lower-tier award within the Grand Merit Medal system, making it more common than silver or gold classes but still historically relevant.
The Afghanistan - Kingdom Grand Merit Medal, III Class is a significant piece of Afghan history. The bronze material, standard 38.20 mm diameter, and soldered suspension ring indicate a well-worn yet authentic example. Despite the modification, it remains a collectible medal from Afghanistan’s monarchical period.