If you’ve ever been captivated by the history and heroism represented by military medals, starting a collection of American military medals can be a rewarding hobby. But with dozens of available decorations (some easy to find, others extremely difficult), where do you start?
Whether you’re a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and meaningful collection, this guide will help you get started. We’ll explore various ideas for building your collection (including World War I, World War II, and more), categorized by difficulty and cost, to ensure you find the perfect entry point into this fascinating and honorable pursuit.
A (Quick) Love Letter to Medal Collecting
Collecting military medals is a great hobby because each medal tells a unique story of bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism. The intricate designs and profound significance of these medals connect us to the individuals who served and shaped history. In other words, each piece serves as a tangible link to the past, offering us a glimpse into the experiences and achievements of the brave souls who wore them.
This hobby goes beyond mere collecting, too. It’s a but of a journey through time. As you acquire more medals, your admiration for those who served deepens, and your understanding of our collective heritage grows. This connection to history and the people who made it is what makes collecting military medals such an enriching and inspiring pursuit.
The Easiest US Medal Collections to Get Started
For those new to the world of military medal collecting, it can be a good idea to start with the easiest and most accessible medals.
Here are some suggestions for collections that are both affordable and readily available:
Service Medals: Service medals are a great starting point because they are widely available and relatively cheap. Medals such as the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal are commonly awarded and can often be found at reasonable prices.
Campaign Medals: Campaign medals, awarded for participation in specific military campaigns, are another excellent choice for beginners. The Vietnam Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, and Iraq Campaign Medal are examples that are frequently available and affordable.
Good Conduct Medals: Most Good Conduct Medals, awarded to enlisted personnel for exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity, are both common and inexpensive. These medals have been issued since World War II and are easily found in military surplus stores and online marketplaces.
Commemorative Medals: While not official military decorations, commemorative medals are often created to honor specific events, units, or achievements. They are widely available and can be a cost-effective way to build a collection. Examples include medals commemorating anniversaries of significant battles or honoring veterans of specific wars.
State and National Guard Medals: Medals issued by individual states and the National Guard can also be a great starting point. These medals recognize service within state military units and are usually less expensive than federal awards.
Some examples of American medals that range between $20 and $50:
The Most Accessible US Medal Collections
For beginners, some of the most accessible collections are those that include medals widely awarded and easily obtainable. Overall, these accessible collections allow new collectors to build a meaningful and diverse collection without a significant financial investment. As your interest and knowledge grow, you can gradually expand to include rarer and more valuable pieces, deepening your appreciation for the history and heroism these medals represent.
Option #1: Collecting U.S. Service Medals
Complete List and Prices (All Time Periods)
Collecting these medals offers a meaningful and relatively affordable entry into the world of military memorabilia. Here’s a comprehensive list of U.S. Service Medals that would form a complete collection, along with their average prices based on availability and typical market value (remember that prices can vary based on the condition of the medals and the specific market or seller):
National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) $5-$10 (Awarded to U.S. military personnel for honorable active service during designated time periods of national emergency)
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (AFEM) $10-$20 (Presented to service members who participated in U.S. military operations, U.S. operations in direct support of the United Nations, or U.S. operations of assistance to friendly foreign nations)
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM) $5-$10 (Given to military personnel for service in the Global War on Terrorism, including operations against terrorism since September 11, 2001)
Korea Defense Service Medal (KDSM) $10-$20 (Awarded to U.S. military personnel who served in the defense of South Korea after July 28, 1954)
Antarctica Service Medal (ASM) $15-$25 (Recognizes U.S. military and civilian personnel for participating in scientific research and exploration in Antarctica)
Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM) $10-$20 (Granted to service members who participate in significant U.S. military operations, providing support in non-combat roles)
Humanitarian Service Medal (HSM) $10-$20 (Awarded for meritorious direct participation in a significant military act or operation of a humanitarian nature)
Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal $10-$20 (Recognizes military personnel who perform substantial volunteer service to the local community beyond their military duties)
Air and Space Campaign Medal $10-$20 (Awarded for participation in or support of combat operations against an armed enemy during specified campaigns)
Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal (IRCM) $10-$20 (Given to service members for participation in Operation Inherent Resolve, the campaign against ISIS in Iraq and Syria)
Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM) $10-$20 (Recognizes members of the U.S. Armed Forces who perform outstanding volunteer community service)
NATO Medal $10-$20 (Awarded to military personnel who have participated in NATO operations or activities, promoting peace and security among member nations)
Total Estimated Cost:
Given the range of prices, here’s the average total cost if you were to purchase each medal:
- Low-End Total: $115
- High-End Total: $245
Option #2: Collecting U.S. Campaign Medals
Complete List and Prices (All Time Periods)
Collecting these medals offers a significant and enriching connection to the various campaigns and conflicts in which the U.S. has been involved. Here’s a comprehensive list of U.S. Campaign Medals that would form a complete collection, along with their average prices based on availability and typical market value:
Mexican Service Medal $100-$200 (Awarded to U.S. military personnel for service in Mexico from 1911 to 1919, recognizing participation in specific engagements such as the Veracruz Expedition and the Punitive Expedition)
World War I Victory Medal $50-$100 (Presented to U.S. Armed Forces members who served in World War I, commemorating their contribution to the Allied victory from 1917 to 1918)
American Defense Service Medal $20-$40 (Awarded to service members for duty during the period of the national emergency declared by President Roosevelt before the U.S. entered World War II)
American Campaign Medal $20-$40 (Given to military personnel who served in the American Theater during World War II, from December 7, 1941, to March 2, 1946)
Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal $20-$40 (Recognizes U.S. military service in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater during World War II, from December 7, 1941, to March 2, 1946)
European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal $20-$40 (Awarded to U.S. service members who served in the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater during World War II)
World War II Victory Medal $20-$40 (Given to all members of the U.S. Armed Forces who served during World War II, between December 7, 1941, and December 31, 1946)
Army of Occupation Medal $20-$40 (Presented to U.S. military personnel who performed occupation service in Germany, Austria, Italy, or Japan after World War II)
Medal for Humane Action (Berlin Airlift) $50-$100 (Awarded to service members who participated in the Berlin Airlift, delivering supplies to Berlin between 1948 and 1949)
Korean Service Medal $20-$40 (Given to U.S. military personnel who served in the Korean War between June 27, 1950, and July 27, 1954)
Vietnam Service Medal $20-$40 (Awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who served in Vietnam and adjacent areas between 1965 and 1973)
Southwest Asia Service Medal $20-$40 (Recognizes U.S. military service during the Persian Gulf War, from August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995)
Kosovo Campaign Medal $20-$40 (Awarded to service members who participated in or supported operations in Kosovo after March 24, 1999)
Afghanistan Campaign Medal $20-$40 (Given to U.S. military personnel who served in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from October 24, 2001, onward)
Iraq Campaign Medal $20-$40 (Presented to service members who served in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from March 19, 2003, to December 31, 2011)
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal $20-$40 (Recognizes U.S. military personnel who deployed abroad in support of the Global War on Terrorism since September 11, 2001)
Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal $20-$40 (Awarded to service members who participated in Operation Inherent Resolve, the military campaign against ISIS in Iraq and Syria, beginning in 2014)
Total Estimated Cost:
Given the prices for these campaign medals, here’s the average cost for the complete collection:
- Low-End Total: $490
- High-End Total: $1000
The More Expensive World War US Medal Collections
For those with a deeper interest in history and a larger budget, collecting medals from the World Wars can be an exciting and enriching pursuit. These collections, while more expensive, offer a profound connection to some of the most significant events in modern history. Collecting these medals involves a substantial financial investment, but the historical significance and the stories of bravery and sacrifice they represent make it a deeply rewarding endeavor.
Option #1: Collecting WW1 American Medals
Complete List and Prices
Collecting these medals offers a profound connection to the Great War and the bravery of those who served during that pivotal time in history. Here’s a comprehensive list of U.S. World War I medals that would form a complete collection and their average prices:
World War I Victory Medal $50-$100 (Awarded to U.S. military personnel who served in the armed forces between 1917 and 1918)
Army of Occupation of Germany Medal $50-$100 (For members of the U.S. Army who served in Germany or Austria-Hungary after the end of World War I)
Medal of Honor (WWI issue) $10,000-$20,000+ (Note: Due to its rarity and the prestige associated with it, this medal is exceptionally expensive and highly collectible.)
Distinguished Service Cross $1,000-$2,000 (Established in 1918, it is the second-highest military decoration awarded to Army personnel)
Distinguished Service Medal $500-$1,000 (For exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility. During WWI, it was often awarded to senior officers for outstanding leadership and achievements)
Silver Star $200-$400 (Awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States. Instituted in 1918, it is the third-highest military combat decoration)
World War I Victory Medal with campaign clasps $75-$150 (for medals with specific clasps)
Victory Medal for Army (different battle clasps) $100-$200 (depending on the clasps. Recognizes participation in specific battles or operations. These clasps denote the recipient’s involvement in significant engagements)
Victory Medal for Navy (different battle clasps) $100-$200 (depending on the clasps. Each adds historical value and significance, typically increasing the price)
Purple Heart (retroactively awarded) $100-$300 (Awarded retroactively for wounds received in action, honors the sacrifice of those injured or killed. Although initially instituted in 1932, many World War I veterans received it retroactively)
U.S. Navy Cross $1,500-$3,000 (The second-highest military decoration awarded for valor in combat, was established in 1919. Awarded to Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard members)
Total Estimated Cost:
Considering the range of prices above, here’s the average total cost you’d need to pay if you were to purchase each medal in the WW1 collection:
- Low-End Total: $13,675
- High-End Total: $27,450+
Option #2: Collecting WW2 American Medals
Complete List and Prices
Collecting these medals offers a profound connection to the pivotal events of World War II and the valor of those who served during that time. Here’s a comprehensive list of U.S. World War II medals that would make a full collection and their prices (shown as averages):
Medal of Honor (WWII issue) $10,000-$20,000+ (Note: Due to its prestige and the limited number issued, it is extremely rare and highly valuable, with prices often exceeding $20,000)
Distinguished Service Cross $1,000-$2,000 (During World War II, it was second only to the Medal of Honor in terms of valor)
Navy Cross $1,500-$3,000 (Like the Distinguished Service Cross, it is awarded for extraordinary heroism but specifically within the Navy and Marine Corps)
Distinguished Service Medal (Army) $500-$1,000 (Awarded for exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility)
Silver Star $200-$400 (The third-highest military combat decoration. Widely awarded during WWII, this medal is a common yet highly respected collectible)
Legion of Merit $100-$200 (Awarded for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements. During WWII, it was awarded to both U.S. military personnel and allied forces)
Distinguished Flying Cross $300-$500 (Awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight and to recognize the bravery of pilots and aircrew)
Bronze Star $100-$200 (For heroic or meritorious achievement or service in a combat zone)
Purple Heart $100-$300 (Awarded to those wounded or killed while serving with the U.S. military. During WWII, it was awarded in large numbers, making it a common yet deeply symbolic medal)
Air Medal $50-$150 (For meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight)
World War II Victory Medal $20-$40 (Awarded to all military personnel who served during WWII. It is one of the most common and least expensive WWII medals)
American Defense Service Medal $20-$40 (For those who served on active duty before the U.S. entered WWII)
American Campaign Medal $20-$40 (For service within the American Theater during WWII. It acknowledges participation in various defensive and offensive operations)
Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal $20-$40 (Awarded for service in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater during WWII. It recognizes participation in major battles and operations)
European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal $20-$40 (For service in the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater. It is one of the most recognizable WWII medals)
Army of Occupation Medal $20-$40 (Awarded to personnel who performed occupation service in Europe and Asia following WWII. It represents the post-war efforts to stabilize and rebuild occupied territories)
Total Estimated Cost:
Considering the prices we have covered above, the average total cost you’d need to invest for a complete World War II collection could be:
- Low-End Total: $14,020
- High-End Total: $28,890+
Other US Medal Collections
There are several other fascinating categories of U.S. military medals that offer rich histories and unique stories. These collections encompass different conflicts and service periods, each with its own significance and allure for collectors. Let’s see a few examples.
Option #1: Collecting Civil War Medals
The Civil War, a defining conflict in American history, produced several notable medals. Collecting Civil War medals can be challenging due to their age and rarity, but they hold immense historical value.
- Civil War Campaign Medal $300-$600 (This medal was established in 1907 to recognize Union Army service members who served during the Civil War)
- Southern Cross of Honor $200-$400 (Awarded to Confederate veterans, this medal was issued by the United Daughters of the Confederacy)
- Society of the Army of the Potomac Medal $1,500 to $2,000 (Established in 1869 by the Society of the Army of the Potomac, an organization of Union Army veterans who served in the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War)
- Davis Guard Medal $2,000 to $2,500 (Awarded by the State of Texas to the members of the Davis Guards, a Confederate artillery unit, for their distinguished service during the Second Battle of Sabine Pass on September 8, 1863)
Option #2: Collecting Vietnam War Medals
The Vietnam War era produced a range of medals that honor the service and sacrifice of those who served during this turbulent period. These medals are more accessible and provide a poignant connection to a recent and significant chapter in U.S. military history.
Vietnam Service Medal $20-$40 (Awarded to members of the armed forces who served in Vietnam and surrounding areas between 1965 and 1973)
Vietnam Campaign Medal $30-$50 (Issued by the South Vietnamese government to U.S. military personnel who served for six months in Vietnam)
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal $10-$20 (Awarded for participation in military operations, including early operations in Vietnam)
Option #3: Collecting War on Terrorism Medals
The Global War on Terrorism, initiated after the September 11 attacks, has led to the creation of several medals recognizing service in ongoing military operations. These medals are readily available and represent contemporary military engagements.
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal $5-$10 (Awarded to service members who have participated in anti-terrorism operations)
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal $10-$20 (Recognizes service in deployed anti-terrorism operations outside the U.S.)
Afghanistan Campaign Medal $20-$40 (Awarded for service in Afghanistan from 2001 onwards)
Iraq Campaign Medal $20-$40 (Awarded for service in Iraq from 2003 onwards)
Option #4: Collecting Korean War Medals
The Korean War, often called the “Forgotten War,” also has its own set of medals recognizing the valor and service of those who fought in the early 1950s.
Korean Service Medal $20-$40 (Awarded to U.S. military personnel who served in Korea between 1950 and 1954)
Korean War Service Medal $30-$50 (Issued by the South Korean government to U.S. veterans of the Korean War)
Option #5: Collecting Desert Storm/Desert Shield Medals
The Gulf War, comprising Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, is another significant conflict with its own unique set of medals.
Southwest Asia Service Medal $20-$40 (Awarded for service during the Gulf War from 1990 to 1995)
Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia)$20-$40 (Issued by Saudi Arabia to coalition forces)
Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait) $20-$40 (Issued by Kuwait to coalition forces)
Conclusion
Collecting American military medals is a deeply rewarding hobby that connects you to the rich history and heroic stories of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Starting with easier collections, such as service and campaign medals, allows beginners to build a meaningful foundation without significant financial investment. As your passion and knowledge grow, you can venture into more specialized collections, including those from the Civil War, Vietnam War, the Global War on Terrorism, and beyond.
Each medal in your collection represents a piece of history and a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of American service members. By carefully selecting and preserving these medals, you are not only creating a valuable collection but also honoring the legacy of those who served. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, the world of military medal collecting offers endless opportunities for learning, appreciation, and connection to the past. Dive into this fascinating hobby, and let the stories of courage and valor inspire you as you build your collection.
FAQs About Collecting US Medals
Q: What is the best way to start collecting U.S. military medals?
A: The best way to start is by focusing on accessible and affordable medals such as service medals and campaign medals. These are widely available and can provide a solid foundation for your collection.
Q: Where can I find U.S. military medals for my collection?
A: You can find military medals at antique shops, military surplus stores, online marketplaces like eBay, and specialized dealers. Attending military memorabilia shows and auctions can also be a good way to find rare medals.
Q: How can I ensure the authenticity of the medals I purchase?
A: To ensure authenticity, buy from reputable dealers and sellers with good reviews. Research the specific characteristics of the medals you are interested in and consider consulting reference books or experts in military memorabilia.
Q: Are some U.S. military medals more valuable than others?
A: Yes, medals vary in value based on factors such as rarity, historical significance, and condition. Medals of Honor, Distinguished Service Crosses, and campaign medals from earlier conflicts like the Civil War tend to be more valuable.
Q: How should I store and display my medal collection?
A: Store medals in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent damage. Use display cases with UV-protective glass to showcase your collection while protecting it from dust and environmental damage.
Q: Can I clean my medals to make them look better?
A: It’s generally recommended to avoid cleaning medals, as improper cleaning can reduce their value. If necessary, gently clean them with a soft cloth and consult a professional for any significant restoration.
