title: Investigating the origin and authenticity of Victoria Cross medals using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry
abstract: The Victoria Cross is the United Kingdom's premier military award for bravery, presented for gallantry during active operations. Since its inception in 1856 just 1358 have been awarded, and, due to their rarity and historic interest, have become highly prized amongst private and public collections. Unresolved, however, is a debate about the source material of the medals. Some authorities adhere to a traditional belief that all medals have been cast from the bronze of guns captured from the Russi
journal: Scientific Reports