Combat Infantryman Badge Value Guide

Established in 1942 during World War II, the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) is a highly sought-after military award recognizing infantrymen who participated in active ground combat. Its iconic design featuring a Kentucky flintlock rifle on a blue enamel field makes it a cornerstone of US militaria collections.

What affects the value of Combat Infantryman Badge?

• The presence of stars above the wreath, indicating second or third awards, significantly increases rarity and market value.
• Material composition, such as early sterling silver versions versus later base metal or plastic-coated variants.
• Provenance or documented history linking the badge to a specific veteran or conflict like WWII or Vietnam.
• Overall condition of the blue enamel, as chips or cracks can detract from the item's aesthetic and monetary worth.

How to Identify Combat Infantryman Badge?

• Look for the distinctive blue enamel background behind the silver Kentucky flintlock rifle.
• Check for 'Sterling' or '1/20 10K GF' hallmarks on the reverse of vintage World War II or Korean War era pieces.
• Examine the oak leaf wreath; authentic badges show crisp detailing in the leaves and acorns.
• Verify the attachment style, as early versions typically feature pin-back or clutch-back fasteners depending on the era.

History of Combat Infantryman Badge

The Combat Infantryman Badge was established in November 1942 during World War II. It was created to recognize the unique role of the infantryman in ground combat. The badge has undergone slight design modifications and additions of stars for subsequent awards but has retained its core significance as a symbol of combat experience for infantry soldiers.