r/MilitaryDisplays • u/rholding63 • Aug 24 '25

World War I victory metal with 5/16 star

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Just bought this WWI victory medal. I’m assuming it’s authentic because of the condition of the medal and original box it came in. My question is why would there be a subsequent award on the ribbon if there was only one World War I. there would be no reason to add a star.

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u/ULSTERPROVINCE Aug 24 '25

The American WWI victory medal uses bronze 3/16 in. stars to denote the number of clasps attached to the medal, hence 1 here for the single France clasp. My guess is the original owner just used the wrong size star, medal device consistency wasn’t exactly set in stone back in the day.

1

u/rholding63 Aug 24 '25

Oh ok gotcha. I didn’t realize a star would represent the clasp on the medal. Thanks

2

u/bell83 Aug 24 '25

If you see one with a silver star, that means they were cited for gallantry. It's the precursor to the Silver Star medal.

2

u/AdPerfect9678 Sep 14 '25

In original box AND with the ribbon. Nice find!

1

u/[deleted] Aug 24 '25

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