U.S. Army Presidential Unit Citation Value Guide

The U.S. Army Presidential Unit Citation is a prestigious collective award established in 1942 to recognize units for extraordinary heroism against armed enemies. Originally known as the Distinguished Unit Citation until 1966, it remains a highly sought-after piece of military history representing valor at the unit level.

What Is U.S. Army Presidential Unit Citation Worth?

The typical price range for U.S. Army Presidential Unit Citation is $10 - $15 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the blue silk ribbon, specifically looking for fading, fraying, or water damage.
• The presence of oak leaf clusters or other authorized devices attached to the ribbon which indicate multiple awards.
• The age and mounting style, with older pin-back versions often being more desirable to collectors than modern clutch-backs.
• Historical provenance if the citation is part of a documented veteran's uniform or medal grouping.

How to Identify U.S. Army Presidential Unit Citation?

• Look for the distinct rectangular ultramarine blue silk ribbon texture within the metal housing.
• Verify the gold-colored metal frame features the specific embossed laurel leaf pattern.
• Check for the standard dimensions and pin-back or clutch-back fasteners used on official military issue versions.
• Distinguish between early 'Distinguished Unit Citation' era pieces and post-1966 'Presidential Unit Citation' designations.

History of U.S. Army Presidential Unit Citation

Established by Executive Order in 1942 as the Distinguished Unit Citation, it was renamed the Presidential Unit Citation in 1966. It is awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941.