This is a good example o a WWII era Silver Star medal. The Silver Star was instituted by congress in 1918. The award is granted to personnel serving in any capacity for gallantry in action.
The box is covered with black plastic. Gold letters on top of the box spell the name of the award. Notice how the hinge of the box is covered by a flap of black plastic. Often times this flap would get torn from opening and closing the box many times.

The front of the medal is shaped like a star with a smaller star located in the center of a wreath. The back of the award reads "for gallentry in action" and provided a small soace where the name of the recipient could be engraved.

The body of the medal is attached to the ribbon via a square hanger. The award is a pin back construction.

A ribbon was issued with every award. The box had a space where the ribbon is placed.