US Purple Heart WW2 Navy/USMC Type 1 . YMU4896

United States Navy / USMC Purple Heart Medal. Silver-gilt Type 1 (first issue) purple heart. The Type 1 purple heart has a gilt split wrap brooch pin system. Purple heart with some wear to gilt plated finish (showing the silver below) and worn condition ribbon.

Additional Notes: The US Navy/USMC Type 1 Purple Heart is a unique medal that features gold-plated sterling silver, distinguishing it from the standard gilded bronze-based version. This type of medal is considered scarce due to its rarity and the fact that it was first authorized in 1932. The Type 1 medal is characterized by its split wrap brooch and is distinct from the Type 2, which has a full wrap brooch and is made of a gilded bronze base. The Type 1 medal is also different from the Type 3, which has a slot brooch and is made of bronze. Collectors often seek out these Type 1 medals for their unique design and historical significance.

The Purple Heart medal is awarded in the name of the President of the United States to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving with one of the U.S. Armed Services after April of 1917, has been wounded or killed. With its forerunner, the Badge of Military Merit, which took the form of a heart made of purple cloth, the Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to U.S. military members.

See Additional Information for shipping dimensions.