Obverse, a bust of Queen Victoria facing left with veils |
Reverse, the central inscription "INDIA" with leaf-sprays around it, a marginal inscription outside and floriate/foliate ornament to edge |
After the Indian Mutiny of 1857-1858 the British East India Company's interests in India were taken over directly by the Crown, and such as remained of its armed forces became the Indian Native Army. The Company's decorations and awards however often continued in issue for some time, and thus the last issues of the Company's Long Service Medal were made in 1873. Only in 1888 was this medal replaced by a new one for the Native Army, which was to be awarded for 20 years' service of irreproachable conduct. 2 of these medals a year, in each of the three Presidencies into which the Indian military was divided after the Mutiny, were to be accompanied with a 25-rupee gratuity.
This medal was awarded to Lance-Naick Muhammadkahm, of the Corps of Guides (Infantry). Lester Watson acquired the medal at some point before 1928.