*Soviet Union, WW2, Medal “For Courage” (Медаль «За Отвагу»), Numbered 1649790, Silver Gallantry Award*
A genuine Soviet Medal “For Courage” (Za Otvagu), one of the most respected gallantry decorations awarded by the Soviet Union during the Second World War.
The silver medal displays the classic design: three aircraft flying above the bold red enamel inscription “ЗА ОТВАГУ” (“For Courage”), with a detailed depiction of a Soviet tank below and “CCCP” at the base. The medal is suspended from its original pentagonal mount with the correct grey ribbon featuring two narrow blue edge stripes. The reverse is plain with the impressed award number 1649790, confirming it as a wartime issued decoration rather than a later reissue.
The medal remains mounted on its original suspension bar and ribbon backing plate.
Approx. Measurements – Medal diameter: 37 mm.
History Note:
The Medal “For Courage” (Медаль «За Отвагу») was instituted on 17 October 1938 as a decoration of the Soviet Union to recognise personal bravery and heroism in combat. It was awarded to soldiers of the Red Army, Navy, NKVD troops, and border guards who distinguished themselves through individual acts of courage in battle.
Unlike many Soviet campaign or service medals, the “For Courage” medal was specifically intended for front-line heroism, such as destroying enemy positions, rescuing comrades under fire, or continuing to fight despite wounds. Because of this, it became one of the most highly respected decorations among Soviet veterans.
During the Great Patriotic War (1941–1945) more than 4.2 million examples were awarded. Serial number research places this particular medal within a group issued during the second half of 1944, a period marked by major Soviet offensives against German forces. These included Operation Bagration, the destruction of German Army Group Centre, and the subsequent advances into Poland and toward East Prussia.
Medals from this serial range were typically awarded to front-line soldiers and non-commissioned officers who performed acts of bravery during these intense operations as the Red Army pushed westward toward Germany.
*Condition*
The medal remains in very good original condition overall. The silver shows typical light service wear and handling marks consistent with age. The red enamel lettering remains present though slightly worn. The original ribbon is present but shows age, fraying and discoloration, particularly along the edges, which is common for wartime Soviet ribbon mounts. The suspension hardware and numbered reverse remain clear and intact. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3038E0_6728237217
