Military General Service Medal with Fort Detroit Clasp

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United Kingdom, War of 1812 - Military General Service Medal with Fort Detroit Clasp awarded to Private John Smilzer. Instituted June 1, 1847, the MGSM was awarded retrospectively for various military actions from 1793–1814, to surviving claimants who applied. The Military and Naval General Service Medals were among the first real British campaign medals to be issued to all ranks present at a battle or campaign. It is constructed out of a die stamped silver base. The round shaped obverse features the left facing effigy of Queen Victoria, with “W Wyon” (designer) to the base of the neck, with the inscription “Victoria Regina” and “1848” date. The reverse features Queen Victoria standing on a dais, crowning a kneeling Duke of Wellinton with a laurel wreath, with “To The British Army” arched over top and “1793-1814” to the bottom. The edge reads: “J. Smelser, Canadn Militia.”. It has been renamed, either by the recipient or a collector, to reflect the actual spelling of the recipient’s surname, as opposed to an erroneous spelling on the roll that was originally impressed on it. See Private John Smilzer (Item Number: 30136). To the top is a dual toe claw mount that holds a straight swivel suspender that attaches the “Fort Detroit” clasp. The bar holds the 7 ¾ inch long crimson and dark blue ribbon. It measures 36mm in diameter. Minor scratches. Beautiful patina.