American Defense Service Medal Value Guide

Established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt via Executive Order 8808, this medal honors military personnel who served during the critical national emergency period between 1939 and 1941. It is a significant collectible representing the United States' rapid military expansion and readiness prior to the attack on Pearl Harbor.

What affects the value of American Defense Service Medal?

• Condition of the silk ribbon, specifically looking for fraying or significant fading of the yellow and tri-color stripes.
• Presence of original clasps such as 'Foreign Service', 'Base', 'Fleet', or 'Atlantic' which can increase collector interest.
• The overall patina and crispness of the bronze strike, ensuring no heavy corrosion or deep scratches.
• Inclusion of the original presentation box or accompanying service documentation.

How to Identify American Defense Service Medal?

• Verify the presence of a female figure representing Liberty holding a shield and sword on the obverse.
• Check for the inscription 'AMERICAN DEFENSE' on the front and 'FOR SERVICE DURING THE LIMITED EMERGENCY' or 'FOR SERVICE DURING THE UNLIMITED EMERGENCY' on the reverse.
• Examine the ribbon for the distinct golden-yellow silk with blue, white, and red stripes at the edges.
• Confirm the material is genuine bronze with a diameter of 1.25 inches.

History of American Defense Service Medal

The American Defense Service Medal was established by Executive Order 8808 on June 28, 1941, by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It recognized military personnel who served between September 8, 1939, and December 7, 1941, the date of the attack on Pearl Harbor. This period marked a crucial time of preparation and defense buildup for the United States before its official involvement in World War II. The medal signified a period of significant military expansion and readiness, honoring those who served during the early phases of the war effort.