The father contacted police last month after finding his son in possession of stolen property, with most of the recovered items being returned to their owner.
However, the 15-year-old remained tight-lipped over three medals found in his possession inside an old tobacco tin, Senior Sergeant Mel Aitken said.
Now police are appealing to the public to help them reunite the medals - two World War 1 medals and a 1953 coronation medal - with the rightful owners.
The two war medals were inscribed with Private J. P. Wood, and his serial number.
An online search at Archives New Zealand and the Auckland War Memorial Museum database by the Otago Daily Times shows former fireman John Patrick Wood served with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, Otago Infantry Regiment (D Company).
"These would have a lot of sentimental value," Snr Sgt Aitken said.
The South Dunedin teenager has been referred to Youth Aid, she said.
If you know the owner of the medals, please contact Dunedin police on 471-4800.
