Pakistan Independence Medal – 3632841 Sep. Baluch Khan, 14th Punjab Regiment
Pakistan Independence Medal – 3632841 SEP BALUCH KHAN 14 PUNJAB. R.
A highly appealing named example of the Pakistan Independence Medal, correctly impressed to 3632841 Sepoy Baluch Khan, 14th Punjab Regiment. This medal was instituted to mark the creation of Pakistan on 14 August 1947, awarded to all serving military personnel who formed the first generation of the Pakistan Army, Navy and Air Force. It is one of the earliest decorations of the new state and represents the moment the old British Indian Army units were divided and reconstituted under separate national banners.
Struck in cupro-nickel, the medal bears the crescent and star on the obverse with the date of independence, with the reverse carrying the elegant Urdu inscription commemorating the establishment of Pakistan. It retains clear detail, the correct original suspension, and the characteristic dark green ribbon with a narrow white central stripe, symbolising the national colours of the new Dominion. Named examples remain far more desirable than unissued pieces, and those to historically significant regiments are particularly sought after.
The 14th Punjab Regiment, to which Sepoy Baluch Khan belonged, was one of the most celebrated infantry regiments inherited by Pakistan in 1947. Formed from several older Punjab regiments during the reorganisation of the Indian Army in 1922, it had served with distinction across the Middle East, Burma, Malaya and the North-West Frontier. Its battalions were known for their reliability, discipline and long-standing traditions drawn from Punjabi Muslim, Pathan and Sikh recruiting groups.
At Partition the 14th Punjab Regiment was allotted to Pakistan, where it became a key component of the new Pakistan Army’s infantry arm. Its battalions played an important role in stabilising the new frontiers, supporting refugee movements, and forming the professional core of the emerging national force. Soldiers like Sep. Baluch Khan therefore stood at the intersection of two eras—trained under the British Indian Army, yet serving as founding members of Pakistan’s military establishment.
A strong, well-named example to an important regiment, ideal for collectors of South Asian militaria, post-colonial awards, or Punjab Regiment material.
AJMS Medals