USN / USMC Type I Purple Heart, WWII

Very fine Type I Purple Heart for the U.S. Navy and the Marine Corps.

This decoration, in the shape of a purple enameled heart with gilt edges, features the profile of George Washington at the center. The top is adorned with his coat of arms, represented by a shield composed of stars and stripes. The reverse bears the inscription: “For Military Merit.”

The medal is suspended from its purple ribbon with white edges and is fitted with a gilt metal “Split Wrap Brooch” manufactured by the U.S. Mint under contract for the Sea Services (U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Coast Guard).

Condition: very good