11 Medals and Badges That Collectors Value Most

Medals and badges hold a unique place in history, symbolizing achievement and bravery. These items are much more than simple tokens, as they carry deep connections to significant moments in time. Collectors often seek out rare pieces that reflect important events or honor legendary figures. The value of these medals and badges goes beyond their physical form, often tied to their story and rarity. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a casual enthusiast, learning about these prized items can add a new layer of appreciation to your collection.

This post may contain affiliate links, which helps keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Victoria Cross (UK)

The Victoria Cross (VC) is awarded for valor in the face of the enemy. It is one of the most prestigious and rare military awards in the world. Only a few hundred of these medals have been awarded since its creation in 1856. Collectors value the VC not only because of its rarity but because it represents incredible acts of heroism.

The VC is made of bronze, originally sourced from Russian cannon captured during the Crimean War. Its connection to pivotal moments in military history makes it an essential piece for any serious collector of military memorabilia. As one of the highest honors in the British military, its historical significance and scarcity drive its high value. Some VC medals have sold for millions, making them among the most expensive military awards.

Congressional Medal of Honor (USA)

The Congressional Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States. It is presented to those who have distinguished themselves by acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. This medal is highly prized by collectors because of its rich history and connection to important moments in U.S. military conflicts. It has only been awarded around 3,500 times since its inception in 1861, making it exceedingly rare.

Each medal is personalized with the recipient’s name and a citation describing the actions that led to the award. Collectors seek these medals not only for their rarity but also for the stories of bravery and sacrifice they represent. It is widely regarded as the pinnacle of military honors. As such, its value is significant, with some Medals of Honor selling for millions of dollars at auction.

Order of the Garter (UK)

The Order of the Garter is one of the oldest and most distinguished chivalric orders in the world. It was founded in 1348 by King Edward III, and its members are chosen for their contributions to society and their loyalty to the crown. The medal consists of a blue ribbon and a star, and it is awarded to a select group of individuals. Collectors highly value it due to its long history and its exclusivity.

Being awarded the Order of the Garter is a rare honor, given to only 24 living individuals at any given time, plus the monarch. It is the highest form of British knighthood and symbolizes service to the country. For collectors, owning any items related to the order is highly coveted. The rarity and symbolism behind the award make it a prestigious item to add to any collection.

Purple Heart (USA)

The Purple Heart is awarded to U.S. military personnel who are wounded or killed in action. Its simple yet profound design features a purple ribbon and a heart-shaped medal. It is one of the most recognized U.S. military decorations. The emotional significance of this medal, which represents sacrifice and courage, makes it a highly valuable item for collectors.

With its distinctive purple color, the Purple Heart has become a symbol of bravery and suffering. It is awarded to soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines, creating a deep connection with U.S. military history. Many collectors seek out Purple Hearts to honor the individuals who have given so much for their country. Due to its emotional and historical weight, the Purple Heart is considered a true treasure for military collectors.

Olympic Gold Medal

The Olympic Gold Medal is awarded to the first-place finishers at the Summer and Winter Olympic Games. This prestigious award is one of the most coveted by athletes and collectors alike. The gold medal represents not only athletic achievement but also international competition and unity. Its value skyrockets due to the fame and success of the athletes who win them.

These medals are made mostly of silver, with a small percentage of gold, and have been awarded since the first modern Olympics in 1896. Collectors value Olympic gold medals because they symbolize the pinnacle of athletic performance. Medals awarded to iconic athletes, such as Michael Phelps or Nadia Comăneci, can fetch significant sums at auction. The combination of rarity and global recognition makes Olympic gold medals highly sought after in the collectibles market.

Iron Cross (Germany)

The Iron Cross is a military decoration that originated in Prussia and became associated with Germany. It was first awarded in 1813 and has gone through various iterations over the years. Collectors value the Iron Cross for its deep ties to German military history and its association with both World Wars. The medal’s significance, particularly from World War II, makes it highly collectible.

The Iron Cross was awarded for acts of bravery in battle and has been worn by numerous German soldiers throughout history. Its design features a distinctive cross shape, and it is one of the most recognizable military decorations. Due to its association with controversial periods in history, authentic World War II-era Iron Crosses are highly sought after. The rarity of certain versions, such as those awarded to senior officers, increases their value.

Knight’s Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (UK)

The Knight’s Cross of the Royal Victorian Order is one of the highest honors in the United Kingdom, recognizing exceptional service to the monarchy. This award is not limited to the military but also includes civilian individuals who have made notable contributions. It is highly valued because it signifies recognition by the reigning monarch for personal service.

The Knight’s Cross is awarded at the discretion of the British monarch, making it a rare and prestigious honor. It is often given to diplomats, civil servants, and other notable figures who contribute to the welfare of the country. For collectors, the appeal of this medal lies in its connection to the British royal family and its historical significance. As one of the more exclusive British decorations, it continues to be highly sought after in the collecting world.

Air Force Cross (USA)

The Air Force Cross is the second-highest military award in the U.S. Air Force, given for extraordinary heroism in combat. It has been awarded to both officers and enlisted personnel since its creation in 1960. Collectors seek the Air Force Cross for its historical ties to courageous actions during various conflicts, including the Vietnam War and Gulf War.

The medal features a unique design, with an eagle on a cross and blue ribbon, symbolizing both the Air Force and bravery. Due to its rarity, only a few hundred of these medals have been awarded. Items like the Air Force Cross, with verified documentation, are highly collectible. The value comes from the personal stories of the recipients and their heroic actions in combat.

British Empire Medal (UK)

The British Empire Medal is awarded for meritorious civil or military service. It is often given for achievements in local communities or for exceptional service in lesser-known fields. Collectors prize this medal for its historical relevance and its connection to the British Empire’s vast influence throughout the world.

The medal features an image of the reigning monarch and is awarded in recognition of contributions that have made a significant impact. Despite its lower status compared to other decorations, its rarity and connection to the British Empire make it an important piece for collectors. The British Empire Medal continues to be highly sought after, especially by those with an interest in British history and colonial influence.

French Legion of Honour (France)

The French Legion of Honour is one of the oldest and most prestigious awards in France, established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte. It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the country, either in military or civilian service. Collectors value the medal for its historical importance and its connection to one of the most powerful figures in European history.

The Legion of Honour is highly prized due to its historical association with the Napoleonic era and France’s role in shaping modern Europe. It remains one of the most respected awards globally. Items associated with the French Legion of Honour are considered treasures in military collections. The medal’s deep historical roots and rare availability make it a highly valued piece in the world of collectibles.

Meritorious Service Medal (Canada)

The Meritorious Service Medal is awarded to Canadian citizens who perform an act of meritorious service. This honor is not limited to military personnel but is also granted to civilians who contribute significantly to Canadian society. The medal is highly valued for its broad recognition and the impact it has on individuals in both military and civilian sectors.

The Meritorious Service Medal is awarded in two categories, one for military service and the other for civil service. It represents a significant achievement in the recipient’s life. The value of this medal in the collectibles market lies in its rarity and the exceptional nature of the acts it honors. The Meritorious Service Medal continues to be an important symbol of dedication and contribution to Canada.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.