Military Ribbon Bar Value Guide

These 1940-1950 United States Military Ribbon Bars serve as a condensed visual biography of a service member's career during the WWII and Korean War eras. They are highly collectible because they represent specific campaigns and personal commendations through intricate fabric patterns and metal mountings.

What affects the value of Military Ribbon Bar?

• The rarity of the specific commendations represented, such as high-level valor awards versus standard service ribbons.
• The physical condition of the fabric, specifically looking for fading, fraying, or water damage.
• The presence of 'devices' like bronze stars, oak leaf clusters, or arrowhead pins which indicate multiple awards or specific combat participation.
• Historical provenance or documentation linking the bar to a specific decorated veteran.

How to Identify Military Ribbon Bar?

• Check for period-correct 'clutch back' or 'pin back' fasteners common in the 1940s and 1950s.
• Verify that the ribbon fabric is made of silk or early synthetic blends consistent with mid-20th-century manufacturing.
• Look for specific US campaign colors, such as the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign or the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign patterns.
• Examine the metal mounting bar for signs of age-appropriate patina and construction style.

History of Military Ribbon Bar

Military ribbons and medals have a long and storied history, dating back to ancient times when warriors were decorated for their bravery. Modern ribbon bars became prominent in the 20th century, particularly during and after World War I, as a practical way to display multiple awards without wearing full medals daily. Each ribbon's design and color scheme symbolize specific achievements, campaigns, or units, creating a visual narrative of a service member's career.