Eastern Front Medal Appraisal

Soviet Medal For the Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945 (Reverse Side)

This item is the reverse side of a circular Soviet military campaign medal, established on May 9, 1945. It is constructed from brass, displaying a distinct golden-yellow hue typical of many WWII-era Soviet decorations. The coin-shaped medal has a diameter of approximately 32mm and features embossed Cyrillic text. Around the upper perimeter, it reads 'ЗА ПОБЕДУ НАД ГЕРМАНИЕЙ' (For the Victory over Germany). The center contains the horizontal inscription 'В ВЕЛИКОЙ ОТЕЧЕСТВЕННОЙ ВОЙНЕ 1941–1945 ГГ.' (In the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945). At the bottom center, there is a small five-pointed star. The surface exhibits a granular texture common in mass-produced cast or struck medals of this period. There are visible signs of aging and wear including a dull patina, minor surface scratches, and small dark spots of oxidation or 'zinc pest' beginning to form. The edges show slight smoothing consistent with handling. The absence of the suspension ribbon and the mounting ring (pentagonal block) indicates this is only the pendant portion of the award. The craftsmanship is utilitarian, reflecting the high-volume production required at the end of the conflict where millions were awarded to military personnel.