Historical information

Ottoman War medal was give by Ottoman Empire to soldiers during WW1 for gallantry. Australian soldiers began to see these after the Gallipoli campaign particularly during the conflict in Sinai and Palestine.
Martin Balsarini fought in the Battle of Beersheeba in Palestine. It is likely that he collected this medal during that campaign.

Significance

This object is significant because Martin Balsarini was Chiltern Valley resident who fought in the Gallipoli campaign. This is a rare medal highly prized by Australian soldiers. Martin is listed on the Chiltern Shire Great War Honour Roll

Physical description

Star shaped medal with five points, inlaid with red enamel with silver edges. Large crescent moon in centre as well as Islamic patterns and writings, including calendar date. Reverse side has a pin holder inscribed with BB&co. Silver is tarnished and scratched.

Inscriptions & markings

BB & Co.
Islamic inscriptions