What can you tell me about this? Medal for Merit

[jumpinspid]

So I went to an antique store today.And I found this, and I got it for ninety. Don't know if it was a good deal or anything about it.There was no box.

[j. t. thompson]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medal_for_Merit

[blitz67]

Nice!

[easterneagle87]

Is it named on the back?

[manayunkman]

Where on the back do they usually engrave these?

 

This one doesn’t look to be engraved.

[jmpmstr]

This is a modern example 1990s or later IMO. I'd be interested if there is a hallmark on the brooch that would help define the year(s) of manufacture on this one. The tells are the thin connecting swing arm between the badge and the wreath suspension. the level of detail is lacking on the obverse and especially the reverse when compared to a BB&B or even VHB second contract example.

 

That said your $90 is not off the wall but I'd think high end of retail for the era example this is

[easterneagle87]

46 minutes ago, manayunkman said:

Where on the back do they usually engrave these?

 

This one doesn’t look to be engraved.

 

You've got a point there and I didn't pay attention and didn't see the revers until now. 

[Manatee1015]

This is an up close look of a BB&B example that I recently acquired - you can see how much more detail there is, especially with the eagle when compared to the modern example seen in the photos above. Just like Jmpmstr had mentioned.