History

The Sultan of Zanzibar Medal was instituted in 1896 and awarded by the Sultan to Zanzibaris, Indians, members of the East African Rifles, and some British troops in recognition for services in East Africa. The Sultan of Zanzibar Medal was issued in Gold and Silver. However, there is only one Gold Medal known to be in existence, which was awarded to General Raikes.

4 possible clasps, denoting the campaign served, were authorized for wear with the Medal. The clasps were inscribed in Arabic. The English translations are as follows:
1. “PUMWANI”
2. “JONGENI”
3. “TAKAUNGU”
4. “MWELE”

The Medal was often awarded with the East & West Africa Medal for Witu and Mwele. The Medal also features an obverse and reverse Arabic inscription that translates to, "El Seyyid Hambi bin Thwain, Sultan of Zanzibar, AH 1313".

While the Medal was generally issued unnamed, it is uncertain whether existing named versions are official or were privately altered.