Te Papa has spent $40 thousand dollars acquiring a rare bravery medal, which was given to New Zealander Frances Parker.

The Women's Social and Political Union Medal for Valour was bought last night from an auction house in London.

It was awarded to the suffrage activist for her role in getting women the right to vote in Scotland.

Frances Parker was imprisoned several times for her part in violent protests, and attempts to burn down prominent buildings.

She went on several hunger strikes and was subjected to forced feeding, which involved physical abuse and indecent assault.

Te Papa said the medal has an incredibly important story to tell, and is an exciting acquisition for the museum.