Original Queen’s South Africa Medal awarded to Gunner F. Light, 76th Battery, Royal Field Artillery – extensive Boer War service with five battle clasps.
Key Information:
Country: Great Britain
Name of Medal: Queen’s South Africa Medal (QSA)
Campaign: Second Boer War (1899–1902)
Recipient: 13837 GNR. F. LIGHT. 76TH BTY. R.F.A.
Clasps (5): Belfast, Laing’s Nek, Driefontein, Paardeberg, Relief of Kimberley
Material: Silver
Diameter: Approx. 36.57 mm
Ribbon: Original, correct pattern
Engraving (edge): 13837 GNR: F. LIGHT. 76TH BTY. R.F.A.
Medal Type: Officially named, original issue
Clasp Information (Short Form):
Clasps were awarded in three groups — Battle, State, and Date. Battle clasps mark participation in specific engagements, while State clasps denote general service within territories, and Date clasps were for long service.
This medal bears five Battle Clasps, in order of wearing (top to bottom):
Belfast – 26–27 August 1900
Laing’s Nek – 2–9 June 1900
Driefontein – 10 March 1900
Paardeberg – 17–26 February 1900
Relief of Kimberley – 15 February 1900
These clasps represent active participation in several key campaigns of the Second Boer War.
Medal Design:
Obverse: Crowned and veiled bust of Queen Victoria facing left, with inscription VICTORIA REGINA ET IMPERATRIX.
Reverse: Britannia holding a flag and laurel wreath, greeting advancing troops, with SOUTH AFRICA above.
For condition, please refer to the pictures; all dimensions are approximate.
Condition:
Very fine overall. Attractive silver tone with light wear consistent with age and service. All clasps are original and firmly mounted; edge naming is clear and sharp. Ribbon is period and well preserved.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Queen’s South Africa Medal (1899–1902) was awarded to British and Colonial troops who served in the Second Boer War. Each clasp represents a specific action or theatre of service.
This example, named to Gunner F. Light, Royal Field Artillery, features five clasps including Relief of Kimberley and Paardeberg, both pivotal operations in the war. Such a combination denotes prolonged and distinguished field service, making it a highly desirable piece among collectors of British or Boer War militaria.
Summary:
Authentic and well-preserved Queen’s South Africa Medal to Gnr. F. Light, 76th Battery R.F.A., complete with five battle clasps. A fine historic campaign medal representing bravery and endurance in the South African conflict.