Original WWII–era style Legion of Merit group with miniature medal and ribbon bar
Key Information:
Country: United States
Decoration: Legion of Merit – Legionnaire Grade
Set Includes: full-size medal, miniature medal, ribbon bar
Full-size medal dimensions (approx.): 51.32 × 47.64 mm
Miniature medal dimensions (approx.): 25.70 × 24.08 mm
All measurements are approximate.
Medal Design:
The Legion of Merit (Legionnaire class) features the iconic white-enameled five-armed cross bordered in red, mounted on a gilt wreath with green enamel. The central medallion shows 13 stars on a blue field, symbolizing the original colonies.
The reverse displays the inscription “ANNUIT COEPTIS • MDCCLXXVI • UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
The set includes the original miniature medal and a ribbon bar with clutch fasteners.
Important Historical Information – Enamel Colors & Manufacturers:
During WWII and the early post-war period, the Legion of Merit was produced by several U.S. manufacturers, each using slightly different enamel shades:
BB&B (Bailey, Banks & Biddle) – usually bright ruby-red border enamel and vivid green wreath.
G.I. Type / WWII Wartime Issue – often darker, more muted tones; deep green enamel on the wreath and slightly darker red borders, especially in wartime lacquered finishes.
Tiffany & Co. – known for very high-quality, brighter enamel tones.
The medal in this listing features the wartime darker green enamel, consistent with early-to-mid WWII production.
Condition:
Full-size medal: Good condition with age patina; enamel intact with expected minor wear.
Miniature medal: Very good condition.
Ribbon bar: Original clutch-back pins; light wear.
Full-size ribbon shows an older darkened spot from long-term storage.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
Established in 1942, the Legion of Merit remains one of the highest U.S. military decorations. The Legionnaire grade is awarded to U.S. military personnel for exceptionally meritorious conduct.
Wartime enamel-variant medals and complete groupings (full-size + miniature + ribbon bar) are particularly desirable among collectors.
Summary:
Original United States Legion of Merit – Legionnaire Grade set with full-size medal, miniature, and ribbon bar. WWII-style darker enamel variant, associated with early wartime manufacturers.
A complete and collectible set with normal age-related wear.
Please refer to the pictures for details.