Old Vietnam Medal or Order ?

[Linasl]

Greetings All.

I just purchased what I believe is a Vietnamese Medal or Order. I really know nothing about this medal. I would like to know:

1. is this from Vietnam (or an earlier country that was merged to create Vietnam)?

2. from what time period (pre-US Vietnam War, during French occupation, earlier, later)?

3. what it is called?

4. what was it issued for?

5. who was eligible to receive this medal/order?

6. is this rare or common?

I have attached a photo to this post. It may not be all that clear, but it is the best I can do. It is the photo given by the seller of the medal. I do not have it yet.

So... any and all information would be very much appreciated. Thank you.

Linas

[Hugh]

It's the National Order of Viet Nam,awarded in five classes by the Republic of Viet Nam (South Viet Nam) to Vietnamese and foreigners, civil or military. Established by the Emperor Bao Dai in 1950, and patterned on the Order of the Dragon of Annam (one of the states of colonial Viet Nam). It was awarded to Americans during the Viet Nam war. I suspect it was discontinued in 1975.

Your medal is the 5th class (Knight). Not rare. American companies made and sold it in military exchanges during / after the war.

Sources:

The Decorations and Medals of the Republic of Viet Nam, John Sylvester and COL Frank Foster

Collectors Handbook of Military Orders and Medals of the Republic of Viet Nam, Daniel M. Byrne

Edited August 21, 2010 by Hugh

[Linasl]

Thank you Hugh.

Linas