Colonial Meritorious Service Medal

This medal was authorised by Queen Victoria on 31 May 1895 and was adopted by the British dominions, colonies, and protectorates for long service of exceptional character for twenty-one years to non-commissioned members of their local permanent forces. The medal was identical to the British Meritorious Service Medal introduced in 1845 but with the addition of the dominion, colony or protectorate’s name on the reverse. Some of the territories included Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Natal Colony and Cape of Good Hope Colony.