An original “Samana 1897” clasp, issued with the India Medal 1895, awarded to officers and men of the British Army, Indian Army, and supporting forces who took part in operations on the Samana Range on the North West Frontier of India during 1897.
The Samana 1897 clasp commemorates service during frontier operations conducted as part of the wider unrest on the North West Frontier during the late Victorian period. The Samana Range, located in the region of present-day Pakistan, was an area of strategic importance due to its proximity to the tribal territories bordering British India. Following attacks and rising tensions in the area, British and Indian forces conducted military operations to secure communications, protect garrisons, and restore control.
The operations formed part of the extensive frontier campaigning of 1897, which also included the Tirah Campaign and other actions against tribal forces. Troops operating in the Samana region faced difficult mountainous terrain, challenging weather conditions, and determined opposition. The campaign demonstrated the continuing difficulties of maintaining security along Britain’s North West Frontier and involved many experienced British and Indian Army units.
The India Medal 1895 was introduced to recognise service in a series of frontier and internal security operations between 1895 and 1902. The medal and its clasps remain highly collectable due to the variety of operations represented and their connection with some of the most notable Victorian frontier campaigns.
This original Samana 1897 clasp represents an authentic officially issued component and would make an excellent addition to an incomplete India Medal 1895, clasp reference collection, or specialist collection of Victorian campaign medal components.
Dimensions
Approx. 37mm × 18mm
Condition
Good overall original condition, with age-related wear consistent with an officially issued Victorian campaign clasp. Light rubbing, surface marks, and minor signs of handling may be present. An attractive original example of this important North West Frontier clasp, suitable for restoration, display, or specialist collecting.
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