Decoding U.S. Military Medal Markings: A Collector’s Reference
For militaria collectors, identifying and dating U.S. military medals often hinges on the smallest details—especially the discreet markings found on medal suspension bars or crimp brooches. These manufacturer codes, often overlooked, are key to understanding not only when a medal was made but who produced it under U.S. government contract.
In this guide, we’ve tried to compile a comprehensive reference of U.S. medal manufacturer markings. Whether you're cataloguing your collection, authenticating an acquisition, or simply deepening your knowledge, this table can help decode those cryptic letters like LI-GI, V-21, or HLP-GI.
Why These Markings Matter
Each code corresponds to a specific contractor—some of them iconic, others obscure—who produced medals for the Department of Defense across different eras. The evolution of these marks also tells a broader story about post-war industry, quality control standards, and changes in U.S. military supply practices.
From Lordship Industries’ Cold War-era output to the Vanguard-made awards of today, these markings provide vital clues about a medal’s origin, authenticity, and timeframe.
How to Locate Markings on U.S. Medals
Most U.S. military medals bear discreet manufacturer codes or hallmark stamps—usually found in one of the following places:
On the crimp brooch (the upper suspension bar): Flip the medal over and inspect the back of the metal bar. This is the most common location for contract marks like LI-GI, G-23, or V-21.
On the medal’s reverse (rare): Some manufacturers placed small marks directly on the back of the medal itself, especially on earlier or commemorative issues.
On the ribbon mounting clasp (especially for modern pieces): These may have tiny markings stamped into the metal fastener at the top.
On the box or envelope (if present): Government-issued medals often came in labeled packaging that may include contract details or manufacturer codes.
Tip: Use a magnifier or jeweler’s loupe—some codes are tiny and can be hard to spot with the naked eye.
Glossary of Terms
Manufacturer Marking – A short alphanumeric code stamped onto U.S. military awards to indicate the company that produced the medal under contract.
Crimp Brooch – The upper bar or clasp that holds the medal ribbon. It often bears the manufacturer’s mark.
GI Inspection – Refers to government-inspected or government-issued quality control during production. Marks like HLP-GI or LI-GI reflect this oversight.
Contract Period – The date range during which a specific manufacturer held a contract to produce medals. Useful for dating undated awards.
Robbins, Blackinton, Lordship Industries, etc. – Names of prominent U.S. medal manufacturers. These names sometimes appear directly or are represented by coded marks.
Vanguard – A modern supplier still under contract to produce various U.S. military awards today. Markings like V-21 and V21 are commonly associated with their output.
Cold War Era Medals – Awards issued or manufactured during the Cold War period (approximately 1947–1991). These often feature LI-GI, GRACO-GI, or similar marks.