US Army Commendation Medal Value Guide

The US Army Commendation Medal is a significant military award established in 1960 to replace the earlier 1945 ribbon format. It is highly collectible for its role in recognizing sustained acts of heroism or meritorious service that fall just below the criteria for the Bronze Star.

What Is US Army Commendation Medal Worth?

The typical price range for US Army Commendation Medal is $25 - $40 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Presence of original period-correct presentation cases or boxes significantly increases the $25-$40 base value.
• Official engraving of the recipient's name on the reverse adds historical provenance and premium pricing.
• The physical condition of the bronze finish and the lack of fraying or fading on the original silk ribbon.
• Inclusion of additional oak leaf clusters or 'V' devices for valor which indicate multiple awards or combat heroism.

How to Identify US Army Commendation Medal?

• Verify the material is solid bronze with a distinct hexagonal shape featuring the American bald eagle.
• Check for the specific green ribbon with five white stripes, which distinguishes the Army version from other branches.
• Look for the 1960-1970 era manufacturing marks or specific pin-back or crimp-brooch styles common in that period.
• Ensure the reverse side features the 'For Military Merit' inscription with a space for engraving the recipient's name.

History of US Army Commendation Medal

The Commendation Medal was first established in 1945 as the Army Commendation Ribbon, upgraded to a medal in 1960. It recognizes sustained acts of heroism or meritorious service below the level required for the Bronze Star. It is awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces for sustained acts of heroism or meritorious service. There are separate versions for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Joint Service.