US National Defense Service Medal Value Guide

Established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953, the National Defense Service Medal is a significant military award recognizing honorable active service during periods of national emergency. It is highly collectible as a universal symbol of service during major conflicts including the Korean, Vietnam, and Gulf Wars without requiring combat zone deployment.

What affects the value of US National Defense Service Medal?

• Condition of the bronze finish and the crispness of the strike details on the eagle and shield.
• Presence of original issue packaging or a presentation box which can increase value toward the $50 range.
• The inclusion of bronze star attachments on the ribbon indicating service during multiple qualifying eras.
• The overall state of the silk ribbon, specifically looking for fading, fraying, or original mounting hardware.

How to Identify US National Defense Service Medal?

• Verify the medal is struck in bronze and features an American bald eagle perched on a sword and palm branch.
• Check the reverse side for the inscription 'NATIONAL DEFENSE' centered above a shield from the Great Seal of the United States.
• Examine the silk ribbon for the specific pattern of a wide yellow center stripe flanked by red, white, and blue pinstripes.
• Look for official hallmarks on the brooch or edge, though many authentic early strikes may be unmarked.

History of US National Defense Service Medal

The National Defense Service Medal was established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953. It is one of the few service medals that does not require deployment to a combat zone. It signifies honorable service during periods of national emergency, encompassing conflicts like the Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War, and the Global War on Terrorism. This medal serves as a universal recognition for those who served during pivotal moments in modern American history.