US Medals (WWII-Present) Book Recommendations

Not sure if this is the correct place to post this. If not, then would a mod move it to the appropriate venue.

My question is this. I'm a newbie in the US Military collecting field. I'm looking for some book recommendations from others who might be well versed in this field.

Specifically, what would be your recommendations for a book that covers US Military Awards from WWII to Present. Are there any ?

I know that German items have medal specific books. I know this is as a result of all the reproductions in this field. Not sure if the same holds true for US Medals, at least not to the extent.

But I am a newbie, so that is why I am looking for recommendations from those specializing in this field.

Thanks,
Andrew

 

andrew I just found this one at amazon Amazon.com: A Complete Guide to United States Military Medals, 1939 to Present: All Decorations, Service Medals, Ribbons and Commonly Awarded Allied Medals of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard (9781884452222): Frank Foster, Lawrence

 

Jason, that is certainly interesting. I checked the Amazon images and it showed only in B&W, I hope for the price it includes color plates.

I guess that's what my original post was geared at, not what is available, but what the members know and recommend.

In the German collecting field there are a ton of reference books, some better than others, and many to be avoided at all costs.

 

Is there a specific reason you are looking for a book? Is it for valuation of medals or other purposes? Value of existing medals might be problematic to say the least, since there is such a slew of "fakes" and things out there these days.

On the other hand, if you are looking for "bright photos" of medals and ribbons so that you can figure out which medals or ribbons go with what award; you might find this site of interest.

Goto:

U.S. Army

Since it covers all branches from the Civil War to present.

 

Thanks for the reply Clint. Actually, as a newbie I am pretty much trying to figure my way around. What I am looking for is a book(s) that will help explain each of the medals.

For example, whats the difference between a WWII Silver Star as opposed to one of current production. Are there differences with the ribbon bars as well. All these little things that are minefields for new collectors. I won't even get into the whole "named" medal grouping.

Having treaded water long enough in the German pond, I know the dangers that await unsuspecting novice collectors. Just looking to minimize my risk when I venture out.

Andrew

 

Lou

Yes, overall the medals are fairly standard, however from a collecting standpoint there are always variations that lend themselves to period construction techniques (i.e. materials, construction methods, #'s).

The reason I got into this particular genre is that I am attempting to duplicate my uncle's uniform for a display and I would like to obtain insignia that would have been used during that time period (WWII). Just a personal preference.

I'd also like to delve into collecting medals in general afterwards and would like as much help in learning about manufacturers and construction as possible.

Andrew