How can you tell if a medal is real?

A clasp with the name of the theatre or action for which the award is made is presented with the medal. Look closely at the outside edge or the back of your medal. If it is the original medal it will generally have some identifying information inscribed - their name, rank or service number.

How do you authenticate medals?

You can check by burning a thread to check for flammability or examining the ribbon under a black ultraviolet light. Man-made fabrics will glow brightly; cotton will not. Finally, take a hard look at all aspects of the medal with a loop or magnifying glass. All of the raised markings should be sharply struck.

What is the rarest medal?

The Victoria Cross is the 'holy grail' for medal collectors because there are only 1,357 in existence. Bearing the inscription 'For valour' and known as a VC, this medal was first awarded for 'conspicuous bravery' in 1856 and later backdated to the Crimean war of 1854.

Do military medals have serial numbers?

Most collectors of American military awards have encountered se- rially numbered medals and decorations. In certain instances the fact that a medal is serially numbered causes it to be more valu- able than an unnumbered medal. The serial numbering of medals gives rise to its own questions.

Are old medals worth anything?

It can be incredibly tough to know what a medal is worth even if you know what type of medal it is. For instance, the condition of the medal also plays a part in its value. Broken medals, missing ribbons or filed off inscriptions are less valuable. Medals in good condition are more valuable.

How to Spot a Fake Military Cross Medal | Baldwin's Medals

How do you know if a medal is real gold?

Gently drop your gold item into the water. Real gold is a heavy metal and will not float, so if your gold item floats you know it is not real gold. Also, if you notice rust or tarnishing on the item after being in water, this is also a sign it is not real gold since gold doesn't rust or tarnish.

What makes a medal valuable?

Know its worth

For example, the condition of the medal influences its worth. Broken medals, missing ribbons, and inscriptions that have been filed off are all factors that can lower your medal's value. As with any antique, better condition means a higher monetary value.

How do I verify my military medals?

Forms, addresses, and other information on requesting medals can be found on the Military Personnel Records section of NPRC's Website at www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel. For questions, call Military Personnel Records at (314) 801-0800, or e-mail questions to: [email protected].

Are military medals legal to sell?

The Selling of Military Awards and Medals: Legality

It is illegal to buy, sell, barter, or manufacture any decorations or medals authorized by Congress for the United States armed forces.

Are military medals real gold?

The metal content of the Medal of Honor varies. The Army version is made of red brass, other metal, and gold plating, while the Navy, Marine, and Coast Guard versions are made of solid red brass. The Air Force version is made of bronze, other metal, and gold plating.

What is the hardest medal to get in the U.S. military?

The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration that may be awarded by the United States government.

Who should inherit war medals?

The rule is that war medals should only be worn on the left breast by the person upon whom they were conferred. Technically this honour remains with the individual and does not pass to a widow, parent or relative upon death.

What are the top 10 military medals?

How much are real medals?

Apparently, there's about $350 of gold and $400 of silver in each medal, which comes to about $750.64 in total metal value. Of course, Olympic medals have enormous historical and sentimental value and are therefore priceless, so their actual material worth is kinda irrelevant!

Can you wear medals you bought?

'The official rules for wearing medals allow only official awards to be worn. Unofficial purchased medals and foreign medals which do not have the Sovereign's permission to be worn are not allowed.

Can you wear military medals on civilian clothes?

It is permissible for veterans and retirees to wear military awards on civilian clothes for gatherings of a military theme. On significant holidays, veterans and retirees are encouraged to wear their awards and medals. The choice of either full-size medal or miniature is an individual one.

What medals can you not sell?

"The only award that we cannot and will not sell is the Medal of Honor," Hansen said. It is illegal to buy, sell or fraudulently possess a Medal of Honor within the United States and the FBI keeps a sharp eye out. "The only person who can possess a Medal of Honor is the recipient or a designee," Sanborn said.

Can I wear my father's military medals?

In the U.S. and U.K., you can legally wear medals you didn't earn. However, it's illegal to use medals or other military attire to impersonate a veteran or a member of the military—so you can wear them, but be honest about where they came from! Thanks!

How much is a real Medal of Honor worth?

Each version of that medal, awarded to such dignitaries as former South African president Nelson Mandela and the late movie star John Wayne, costs $30,000, according to Baca's staff.

How do I find my father's military medals?

For the General Public: if the service member separated from military service 62 (or more) years ago, the public may purchase a copy of the veteran's Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) to determine the awards due and obtain the medals from a commercial source.

Is it legal to buy US military medals?

The Stolen Valor Acts of 2005 and 2013 (Public Law 109-437 and 113-12) address this issue. The 2005 Law makes it illegal to buy or sell the Medal of Honor, its ribbon or its rosette, including replicas or reproductions. This also applies to historical versions and designs of the Medal.

Can I get a copy of my grandfather's war medals?

Replica medals are available from a medals dealer or a commercial military memorabilia outlet. Many of these replicas are high quality and can be difficult to distinguish from the originals. To request a list of your relatives entitled awards, please complete the Defence Medals Application Form.

What is a military medal worth?

A medal, especially one that has been in your family for generations or was given to you by a person you care for, can be priceless. Therefore, this value cannot be measured in terms of money. Many medal collectors consider themselves as the current custodian of a medal, rather than the owner.

What is the best medal to receive?

The nation's highest military award for valor is the Medal of Honor, presented by the president in Congress' name. By law, only U.S. service members who distinguish themselves “through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty” can receive the medal.

Why is it illegal to sell a Medal of Honor?

Due to the prestige of the Medal of Honor, it is a federal crime to manufacture, sell, or trade these awards without authorization of the federal government. It is also illegal to use unauthorized Medals of Honors to receive benefits, such as money or property.