Persian Empire – Medal for Bravery, AH1318 (1896–1907)
Key Specifications:
Era: Qajar Dynasty
Ruler: Muzaffar al-Din Shah (1896–1907)
Material: Gilded bronze
Diameter: 37.75 mm
Condition: Includes green ribbon (refer to pictures)
Awarded for: Military bravery and exceptional valor
Design Features
Obverse (Front) Details
Central Symbolism:
A standing lion holding a sword, symbolizing courage, strength, and the Persian monarchy.
Behind the lion, a radiant sun, historically associated with divine light and Persian sovereignty.
Reverse (Back) Details
Calligraphic Inscription:
Central Medallion:
Persian inscription honoring the bravery of the recipient.
Date inscribed as AH 1318 (1900-1901 AD).
Outer Circular Inscription:
A poetic verse in Persian, celebrating the valor of a "lion-hearted" warrior.
Translation:
"Any lion-hearted, who caught the rein of Shah's foe / Received this medal through our luminous magnanimity."
Historical Context & Importance
This Qajar-era bravery medal was issued during the reign of Muzaffar al-Din Shah, one of the last kings of the Persian Qajar dynasty.
The lion and sun emblem was a powerful Persian royal symbol, historically associated with military prowess and national pride.
Awarded to:
Soldiers demonstrating exceptional courage in battle.
Military commanders for distinguished leadership.
Foreign dignitaries or officers in service of Persia.
The Imperial Order of the Lion and the Sun was Persia’s highest military and civilian decoration, and this bravery medal belonged to its military division (Nishan-i-Shuja’at).
The medal’s Persian poetic inscription reinforces the cultural emphasis on chivalry and valor.
The Persian Empire – Medal for Bravery (AH 1318) is an exceptionally rare and historically significant Qajar-era military decoration, awarded for acts of valor and distinguished service.
With its iconic lion and sun motif, ornate Persian calligraphy, and original red ribbon, this piece is a valuable addition to collections of Persian military history.