*Soviet Union, WW2, Medal “For Courage” (Медаль «За Отвагу»), Silver, Numbered 1664536*
A genuine Soviet Second World War Medal “For Courage” (Za Otvagu) mounted on its original Soviet pentagonal ribbon suspension.
The obverse shows the distinctive design used throughout the Great Patriotic War: three aircraft in flight above the bold red-enamelled inscription “ЗА ОТВАГУ” (“For Courage”), with a detailed tank below and the abbreviation “СССР” (USSR) at the base. The red enamel lettering remains clear and attractive, contrasting against the silver medal body.
The reverse is plain apart from the impressed award number 1664536, confirming this as an officially issued wartime decoration. The medal remains fitted to its original Soviet-style pentagonal brass suspension mount, with the correct grey ribbon with blue edge stripes.
The medal shows honest service wear and patination consistent with age, retaining strong detail to the aircraft and tank motif.
Approx. Measurements – Medal diameter: approx. 37 mm.
History Note:
The Medal “For Courage” (Медаль «За Отвагу») was established on 17 October 1938 and became one of the most respected Soviet decorations of the Second World War. It was awarded specifically for personal bravery and courage in combat, often to front-line soldiers for individual acts of heroism under fire.
Unlike some Soviet awards that recognised collective or long service achievements, the “For Courage” medal was strongly associated with genuine battlefield bravery, making it highly regarded among Red Army personnel.
Serial number research places medals in the 1.3–2 million range within the second half of 1944, a period covering major Soviet offensives including Operation Bagration and the subsequent advance into Eastern Europe. During the war over 4 million examples were awarded, making it one of the most iconic decorations of the Great Patriotic War.
*Condition*
Good overall condition for its age. Clear obverse detail with intact red enamel lettering. Normal surface wear and light scratching to the reverse consistent with service use. Original suspension mount and ribbon present with minor age wear and fraying at the fold. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3027D0_5684237032
