Originally instituted in 1963 as 'The Public Service Award'. it was subsequently upgraded to a medal in 1977Medal fitted with original silk corded riband, and 9mm crimp brooch mounting bar. This latter with contract makers hallmark 'G27' on reverse, and the bar retaining it's hinged pin & drop clasp fittings on reverse as issuedNASA's Public Service Medal is a United States government awarded to any non-Government individual or to an individual who was not a Government employee during the period in which the service was performed for sustained performance that embodies multiple contributions on NASA projects, programs, or initiativeBetween 1963 to 31 October 2000, a total of 1370 x awards/medals had been presentedA choice example with superb gildingCondition: EF