The star on certain historical versions of the Medal of Honor was originally depicted upside down because this specific design was designated for non-combat actions. This unique orientation served to differentiate medals awarded for acts of valor that did not occur in direct battle scenarios.
Historical Context of the Medal's Design
The Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration, has seen several design iterations throughout its history. The presence of an upside-down star is a feature tied to an earlier period and specific criteria for its award.
- Original Purpose: The inverted star was a distinguishing characteristic of the original medal patterns specifically created to honor extraordinary heroism and gallantry performed outside of active combat engagements. This design choice provided a visual cue regarding the nature of the meritorious act.
Evolution and Redesign
Over time, the Medal of Honor's design evolved to reflect changes in its awarding criteria and aesthetic preferences. A significant redesign occurred in the early 20th century:
- 1919 Redesign: A new pattern for the medal pendant, featuring a cross form rather than an inverted star, was designed by the renowned Tiffany Company in 1919. This marked a shift in the medal's appearance, moving away from the previously designated upside-down star for certain versions.
This evolution highlights how the medal's design adapted to its historical context and the different categories of heroism it sought to recognize.
Summary of Design Evolution
To further clarify the distinction, here's a brief comparison:
Design Aspect | Original Version (with Inverted Star) | 1919 Redesign (by Tiffany) |
---|---|---|
Star Orientation | Distinctive upside-down star | New pattern, typically in cross form |
Primary Designation | Specifically for non-combat acts of gallantry | Broadened scope with new design |
Designer | Various early manufacturers | Tiffany Company |
Understanding this historical designation helps to clarify why the star was configured in an inverted manner on specific, original versions of the Medal of Honor.