Purple Heart manufacturers and differences between them

October 26, 2020

I am trying to determine the manufacturer and type two of my Purple Heart medals I have in my collection.

One is a flat-heart version with number on the left, lower edge (168926).

The other has the plastic type heart with the following serial number at the same place as the other (343964).

I found some information on different forums and pages about the different manufacturers and their manufacturing processes but I am a bit confused.

I have found the following information:

There were 2 contracts that were numbered during WW2 and these were awarded to Rex Products and the Robbins Co. There were numbered contracts issued before WW2 to BB&B and Metal Arts. From July 1st 1942 numbers 100.000 to 400.000 to Rex Products and 400.001 to 600.000 to Robbins.

The first Rex 125.000 were on a slot brooch and fire enamel heart (100.000 to 225.000) and the next 90.000 (225.001 to 315.000) were Lacquer enamel. Robbins on a slot brooch enamel heart (400.001 – 490.000 approx) and the next 110.000 with a plastic heart.

Based on this information my guess would be that this piece I have was made by Rex Products and this is the fire enamel heart version but what is the difference between the fire enamel and laquer enamel type? I have seen Purple Heart medals with painted copper inserts as well. It would mean there were 3 different types produced by Rex Products?

I am also confused about my higher number medal. Seems like it is not fitting into the above range as it is between 315.000 and 400.000. Which manufacturer made this medal?

I have also seen Purple Hearts where the shield is separately attached. Are those types were produced by different companies or Rex and Robbins pieces just different types?

Some reference pictures on different manufacturers and pieces like Rex Products fire enamel piece, Rex Products laquer enamel, Rex Products painted copper and the same for the Robbins types would be a great help to determine the type as I did not find an overall guide with good pictures on the different types.

Thanks for your comments!