The Purple Heart award, which is given to members of the United States Armed Forces who are wounded or killed in combat, does not have a monetary value in the same way that a commodity or currency does. It is a symbol of honor, sacrifice, and bravery, and its worth is measured in the recognition and respect it carries. The Purple Heart award is, therefore, not something that is typically bought or sold on the open market.
It is possible to find Purple Heart medals for sale through collectors, auctions, or military surplus stores. The price, however, can vary significantly depending on factors such as the medal’s condition, the recipient’s history, and the overall demand among collectors.
In this guide, we will explore some of the latest average values of the Purple Heart medal and discuss the important ethical considerations you should take into account when dealing with such military awards. I will also include some current auctions, so scroll down if you want to see whether there are any Purple Hearts for sale right now.
What Is The Purple Heart?
The Purple Heart is a United States military decoration established by General George Washington in 1782 as the Badge of Military Merit. Initially, the decoration was awarded for “any singularly meritorious action.”
In 1932, on the bicentennial of Washington’s birth, the Purple Heart was revived and redesigned as a heart-shaped medal with a profile of George Washington and the inscription “For Military Merit.” The medal is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have been wounded or killed in action against an enemy of the United States or as a result of an act of any such enemy, or posthumously to the next of kin of such individuals.
The Purple Heart is a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and devotion to duty, and it is highly esteemed among military personnel and their families. Recipients of the Purple Heart are honored for their bravery and their willingness to make sacrifices for their country.
What's the Average Price of a Purple Heart?
Let’s start by remembering that selling or purchasing military decorations, including the Purple Heart, is regulated by federal law, and there are restrictions and requirements for buying, selling, and owning such items depending on where you are.
The Purple Heart is not awarded with any financial compensation attached to it. Its value lies in the recognition of the recipient’s sacrifice and service to their country.
Having said this, if we look at the latest auctions, we can see that most prices for Purple Hearts range from $65+ USD for bronze gilt/enameled versions to over $800 for specific decorations. Purple Hearts from World War II are also pricier, typically valued between $300 to $400 due to the continued interest in that era. For instance, one of the most decorated American combat soldiers of World War II, Audie Murphy received multiple Purple Hearts. His medals are highly valuable due to his fame and heroic actions.
Here are a few examples of past real auctions of Purple Hearts from various auction platforms and houses:
Heritage Auctions: In August 2018, a Purple Heart awarded posthumously to a World War II Marine killed in action at Iwo Jima sold for $4,182. The medal was accompanied by an official citation, photographs, and other personal effects, significantly increasing its value due to the provenance and historical significance.
Bonhams: In a June 2015 auction, a collection including a Purple Heart awarded to a soldier who served during World War I and World War II sold for $2,500. This grouping also contained other service medals and documents that detailed the soldier’s service history.
RR Auction: In February 2019, a Purple Heart awarded to a sailor killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor was sold for $7,500. The medal came with a certificate, personal letters, and photographs, providing a rich historical context and increasing its appeal to collectors.
Goldin Auctions: In September 2020, a Vietnam War Purple Heart awarded to a soldier who was killed in action, along with his Silver Star and Bronze Star medals, sold for $3,000. The comprehensive nature of the medal group and the detailed history of the recipient contributed to the final price.
Sotheby’s: In a notable auction, a Purple Heart awarded to a World War I soldier, along with his Distinguished Service Cross, was sold for $15,000. This medal grouping was particularly valuable due to the Distinguished Service Cross, one of the highest military decorations awarded for extraordinary heroism.
Factors Influencing Purple Heart Values
The value of a Purple Heart is determined by several factors including the recipient’s history, the condition of the medal, and the accompanying documentation.
Recipient’s History
The value of a Purple Heart is significantly influenced by the history of its recipient. Medals awarded to notable individuals or those involved in significant historical events tend to have higher value. For example, a Purple Heart awarded to a soldier involved in D-Day or the Battle of Iwo Jima would be more valuable due to the historical significance of these events.
Condition of the Medal
The physical condition of the medal is a crucial factor. Medals in mint or excellent condition fetch higher prices compared to those that are damaged or worn. The presence of the original ribbon, presentation case, and any accompanying insignia also enhances the medal’s value.
Accompanying Documentation
Documentation that accompanies a Purple Heart, such as award certificates, letters of commendation, or personal letters, adds significant value. These documents provide provenance and authenticity, making the medal more desirable to collectors. For instance, a Purple Heart with detailed service records and personal stories of the recipient can command a higher price.
What Was The Most Expensive Purple Heart Ever Sold?
The most expensive Purple Heart ever sold was a medal posthumously awarded to John F. Kennedy, which was auctioned at RR Auction in September 2014 for $200,000.
John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, received the Purple Heart for injuries he sustained during his service in World War II. As a Navy lieutenant, Kennedy was serving as the commander of Motor Torpedo Boat PT-109 in the Pacific theater when his boat was rammed by a Japanese destroyer on August 2, 1943. The collision caused the boat to split in two, and Kennedy and his crew were thrown into the water.
Despite suffering from back injuries, Kennedy managed to help his injured crew members to safety and led them to a nearby island, where they awaited rescue. For his courageous actions and leadership during this incident, Kennedy was awarded the Purple Heart, among other decorations.
If you’re interested in reading more about Kennedy’s Purple Heart, the Purple Heart Foundation tells the full story.
Celebrating Purple Heart Awardees with Collectibles
You can buy Purple Heart memorabilia and collectibles on eBay. The platform offers a variety of items related to the Purple Heart, including medals, certificates, and other memorabilia. When searching, you’ll find both original and reproduction items, so it’s important to carefully read descriptions and verify the authenticity of the collectibles.
Authentication Tips for Purple Heart Medals
Check for Official Markings
- Engraving: Authentic Purple Hearts often have the recipient’s name engraved on the back. Posthumous medals may include the words “For Military Merit.”
- Material and Quality: Genuine medals are made from high-quality materials and exhibit precise craftsmanship. Be wary of poor-quality reproductions.
Consult Experts and Reputable Dealers
- Professional Appraisers: Seek out appraisers with experience in military memorabilia.
- Reputable Dealers: Purchase from well-known and trusted dealers who specialize in military medals and have good reviews.
Documentation and Provenance
- Original Paperwork: Accompanying documentation such as award certificates, military service records, and personal letters enhance authenticity.
- Service History Verification: Cross-check the recipient’s service history and medal award dates with official military records.
Research and Community
- Online Forums and Groups: Join forums and groups dedicated to military memorabilia for advice and verification from enthusiasts and experts.
- Auction Houses: Review listings and sales from reputable auction houses for examples and comparisons.
