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"These Aren’t Just Medals—They’re Time Machines"
Medals are more than just pieces of metal; they are time machines that connect us to extraordinary stories of bravery, sacrifice, and history. In the first episode of Complete Collector's brand new podcast Incomplete, Aaron sat down with Mark Smith—better known as "The Medal Man" from Antiques Roadshow—to uncover the hidden stories behind these fascinating collectables.
For Mark, medals are not merely collectables; they are vessels of human experience. Each medal holds a story, whether it’s a tale of survival, an act of heroism, or the emotional aftermath for families left behind. As Mark shares in the podcast, "These aren’t just medals—they’re people."
From his early days tracing battle maps with his father to uncovering the stories of unknown soldiers, Mark’s passion for preserving history is evident. His work shines a light on the individuals behind the medals, turning these humble items into poignant reminders of the past.
During the episode, Mark emphasises the critical role of provenance in medal collecting. Unlike many collectables, the true value of a medal lies in its story. Documents, letters, or even photographs that accompany a medal transform it from a piece of metal into a deeply personal narrative.
Mark recounts the tale of a First World War soldier whose belongings were returned to his family after his death. Among them was a photo with a bullet hole—a tragic yet powerful reminder of his sacrifice. "This is why this hobby is incredible," Mark explains. "These are stories that need to be told."
The episode also delves into the unique ways medals forge connections between past and present. Mark shares heartwarming anecdotes, such as guiding descendants to the graves of their ancestors or helping collectors uncover hidden stories within their family trees.
"Medals should be with the man, the woman, or the family," Mark says. Yet when they change hands, they breathe new life into the stories they represent, ensuring they are cherished and remembered by future generations.
For those inspired to begin their own medal-collecting journey, Mark offers practical advice. From understanding the importance of provenance to navigating the affordability of medals, his insights are invaluable. Whether you’re buying your first piece or expanding your collection, the stories behind the medals are what make the hobby so rewarding.
Mark’s enthusiasm for medal collecting is infectious, and his stories are as gripping as they are emotional. Don’t miss this episode of Incompleteto hear Mark’s incredible experiences and gain a deeper appreciation for the history and humanity behind these remarkable items.
Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts or you can watch Episode 1 on Youtube .
