US Navy Good Conduct Medal Value Guide

Established in 1869, the US Navy Good Conduct Medal is one of the oldest military awards, honoring three years of faithful enlisted service. This 1960s bronze example represents a period of significant naval dedication and remains a cornerstone for military medal collectors.

What affects the value of US Navy Good Conduct Medal?

• Presence of the original presentation box or accompanying award citations can increase value toward the $47 mark.
• The condition of the silk ribbon, specifically the lack of fraying or UV fading, significantly impacts the market price.
• Personalized engravings on the reverse that identify a specific sailor can add historical provenance and collector interest.
• The overall crispness of the strike on the ship and anchor details determines the grade and final valuation.

How to Identify US Navy Good Conduct Medal?

• Look for the circular bronze medallion featuring a sailing ship, an anchor, and the encircling motto 'FIDELITY ZEAL OBEDIENCE'.
• Verify the 1960s era ribbon, which should be dark red with no additional stripes, attached to a suspension ring.
• Check the reverse side for the 'UNITED STATES NAVY' inscription surrounding a central space often left blank or engraved with the recipient's name.
• Confirm the material is solid bronze, showing a natural aged patina consistent with mid-20th-century military issues.

History of US Navy Good Conduct Medal

The Good Conduct Medal is one of the oldest military awards in the United States, established in 1869 for enlisted personnel of the U.S. Navy. It recognizes three years of honorable and faithful service, characterized by good conduct and efficiency. The design of the medal has evolved over time, but it consistently features a ship, an anchor, and the motto 'FIDELITY ZEAL OBEDIENCE'. These medals are a tangible representation of dedication and discipline within the naval service, serving as a point of pride for recipients and their families.