How To Identify U S Dog Tags A Detailed Guide To Military Identification Marks

Military dog tags are more than just pieces of metal—they carry personal, historical, and often emotional significance. Used by the United States Armed Forces since World War I, these identification tags help ensure that fallen or injured service members can be properly identified. For collectors, historians, family researchers, or veterans, understanding how to identify U.S. dog tags is essential for accurate interpretation and preservation. This guide breaks down the evolution, standard markings, materials, and key identifiers across different eras.

Understanding the Purpose and History of U.S. Dog Tags

The term “dog tag” originated from the resemblance to pet identification tags, but their function is far more serious. The U.S. military adopted standardized identification tags during World War I as battlefield conditions made visual identification difficult. Prior to this, soldiers used unofficial methods like engraved coins or paper notes, which were unreliable.

In 1916, the Army issued two identical circular tags stamped with the soldier’s name, rank, company, and regiment. One remained with the body; the other was sent to headquarters for record-keeping. Over time, design and information requirements evolved in response to medical needs, technological advances, and changing combat environments.

By World War II, the familiar oval-shaped stainless steel tag emerged. It included blood type and religious preference, reflecting growing awareness of battlefield medicine. The Vietnam War introduced tetanus immunization dates, and modern tags now include service number or Social Security Number (SSN), branch of service, and sometimes inoculation records.

“Dog tags serve as both a practical tool on the battlefield and a solemn record of identity. They represent duty, sacrifice, and the enduring need to bring every service member home.” — Colonel James R. Holloway, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Key Features to Identify Authentic U.S. Military Dog Tags

Authentic U.S. dog tags follow strict specifications. While variations exist due to era and branch, certain core elements remain consistent:

• Material: Stainless steel or monel metal (a nickel-copper alloy), resistant to corrosion.
• Shape: Oval with a notched end—designed to fit into impression machines for casualty reports.
• Size: Approximately 1 inch by 1.5 inches.
• Notch: Present on early WWII through Vietnam-era tags; phased out after 1970s.
• Hole placement: Two holes—one larger for the main chain, one smaller for a secondary breakaway chain.

Tip: The presence of a notch does not automatically indicate age—some reproductions mimic it. Always verify text formatting and font style.

Standard Information Found on U.S. Dog Tags

While exact data varies by period, most official dog tags contain the following fields:

Field	Description	Era Examples
Name	Last name, first name, middle initial	All periods
Service Number / SSN	Unique identifier; pre-2002 used SSN, newer use DoD ID number	WWII–present
Blood Type	A, B, AB, O, and Rh factor (+/-)	WWII–present
Religious Preference	Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, None, etc.	WWII–Vietnam; abbreviated later
Tetanus Dates	Immunization dates (e.g., \"TET TOX\" with year)	Korea–Vietnam
Branch of Service	USMC, USAF, USN, USA, etc.	Vietnam–present

Chronological Guide to Identifying Dog Tags by Era

Each major conflict brought changes in dog tag design and data. Knowing what to expect from each era helps distinguish genuine tags from replicas or civilian imitations.

1. World War I (1917–1918): Circular brass tags with embossed lettering. Included name, rank, company, regiment, and serial number. Often lacked blood type.
2. World War II (1941–1945): Oval stainless steel tags with notched edge. Standardized fields: Name, Service #, Blood Type, Religion. Notch allowed medics to place the tag between teeth in unconscious soldiers for transport.
3. Korean War (1950–1953): Similar to WWII but began including tetanus immunization dates (\"TET TOX 52\"). Some units added unit designation.
4. Vietnam War (1965–1973): Continued use of notched tags with SSN instead of service number. Religious abbreviations became shorter (e.g., \"PROT\", \"CATH\"). Tetanus boosters noted twice.
5. Post-Vietnam to Present: Notch eliminated. Introduction of laser engraving. Modern tags use Defense Department ID numbers to protect privacy. RFID chips have been tested but not widely deployed.

Branch-Specific Variations

Different branches sometimes used unique formats:

• U.S. Marine Corps: Often includes \"USMC\" clearly marked; some Vietnam-era tags list MOS (Military Occupational Specialty).
• U.S. Air Force: After 1947, replaced \"USAAF\" with \"USAF\". May include flight status or special qualifications.
• Navy: Occasionally lists rate (job title) and ship assignment on auxiliary tags.

Common Misidentifications and How to Avoid Them

Many items sold online as “authentic military dog tags” are actually civilian reproductions, memorial jewelry, or commercial products. Here’s how to tell the difference:

Tip: Genuine military-issued tags are stamped, not engraved or etched. Look for slightly raised letters on the front and recessed impressions on the back.

Fake tags often feature:

• Perfectly even, machine-etched fonts (real tags show minor stamping inconsistencies).
• Symbols like eagles or flags not officially used on standard issue tags.
• Incorrect spacing or field order (e.g., religion before blood type).
• Lack of matching second tag (original sets were issued in pairs).

Checklist: How to Verify an Authentic U.S. Dog Tag

1. Confirm the material is stainless steel or monel (not aluminum or plastic).
2. Check for correct shape: oval with two holes and (if applicable) a notch.
3. Verify the information format matches the claimed era.
4. Look for consistent, military-style block lettering.
5. Cross-reference with known examples from official archives or veteran collections.
6. Be cautious of personalized engravings beyond standard fields.

Real Example: Identifying a Found Tag from the Vietnam Era

A collector once discovered a dog tag at a flea market labeled “Vietnam Veteran – Rare Original.” The tag read:

SMITH, ROBERT L
USMC 456-22-9012
O POS TET TOX 66
PROT

Upon inspection, several red flags appeared. First, the font was too uniform—indicative of laser engraving, not mechanical stamping. Second, the SSN format was correct, but the branch abbreviation \"USMC\" was placed before the number, whereas official tags listed name, then SSN, then blood type. Third, no notch was present, yet the seller claimed it was from 1968. Finally, the surface showed no wear consistent with jungle exposure.

After consulting the National Archives’ reference guide, the collector concluded it was a reproduction. This case highlights the importance of cross-verifying layout, sequence, and physical characteristics—even when details seem plausible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can civilians legally own real military dog tags?

Yes, civilians can legally possess authentic dog tags, especially if acquired through inheritance, donation, or surplus sales. However, selling or wearing them as if you served may violate the Stolen Valor Act if done deceptively.

What should I do if I find a dog tag?

If you believe a tag is authentic and belongs to a living veteran or family, contact the Department of Defense’s Casualty Office or a veterans organization like the American Legion. Never alter or sell a found tag without verifying its status.

Are modern dog tags still issued with two tags?

Yes, service members still receive two identical tags. One stays with the body in case of fatality; the other is used for administrative reporting.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Identifying U.S. dog tags requires attention to detail, historical knowledge, and respect for their significance. Whether you’re preserving family heritage, building a collection, or honoring a veteran, understanding the markings, materials, and evolution of these small but powerful tokens brings deeper appreciation for those who serve.

Take time to examine any dog tag with care. Consult official resources, connect with veteran networks, and share your findings responsibly. These tags are not souvenirs—they are records of service, identity, and sacrifice.

💬 Have a story about a dog tag you’ve preserved or identified? Share your experience in the comments to help others learn and honor military history.