June 2, 2006	Friday	Jumadi-ul-Awwal 5, 1427

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ISLAMABAD, June 1: Medals awarded by the government to recognise achievements of individuals or to commemorate special occasions have found their way to antique shops in the city.

Scores of them were spotted selling in the open area around the Siraj Covered Market for merely Rs300 to Rs400.

One can only imagine the circumstances which compelled their owners, or their kins, to part with their pride — the precious tokens of distinction and excellence.

Having lost their shine, these rather dull pieces of metal are now mere epitaphs to the glory and respect they once commanded.

According to stall-holders, mostly Afghans, the few people who showed interest in buying them were mostly foreigners, like Americans, French, German and Russians.

A stall-holder told this reporter that personnel of armed forces also showed interest in the medals, adding that he had sold a number of pieces to uniformed personnel.

Replying a question, he said he had been selling these medals for last 20 years, adding that his main source was junk sellers. Some people sold their medals directly to antique shops, and the price varies on the basis of how old a piece is. The really old fetch more money, he added.