WWII Soviet Russian Order of the Red Star Medal (Original)

SKU: SOVIET WW2 RUSSIAN ORDER OF THE RED STAR METAL

Original/Reproduction: Original

Availability: In-stock

Manufacturer: N/A

Manufacturer Year: 1940

Condition: Very Good

Price: $90.00

Seller Type: WW2C

Seller ID: JMW

Seller Code: 150

Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.

Description:

This “Original Soviet WWII Order of the Red Star Medal” is a authentic military award granted to members of the Soviet Red Army and Navy during World War II. It features a silver central disc with a raised image of a Soviet soldier, encircled by a red enamel star, typically inscribed with Cyrillic text and displaying the hammer and sickle emblem. This medal was awarded for outstanding service in defending the Soviet Union, both during wartime and peacetime.

History:

The Order of the Red Star is one of the Soviet Union’s most famous and significant military decorations, awarded for exceptional service in defense of the Soviet state during World War II and other conflicts. Established by decree on April 6, 1930, the medal has a rich history tied to the valor and sacrifice of soldiers, sailors, and airmen of the Red Army. Here’s an overview of the history of the Order of the Red Star and its significance, particularly during World War II.

The Order of the Red Star was initially created to reward both military and civilian personnel for exceptional service in defense of the Soviet Union. It was designed by the artist V. K. Kupriyanov and is a silver five-pointed star with a soldier holding a rifle in the center. The image is set against a background of sun rays, symbolizing the protection of the Soviet Motherland. The words “Proletarians of all countries, unite!” are inscribed on the edges, and a sickle and hammer are positioned at the bottom of the central medallion.

Origins and Design

The creation of the Order of the Red Star stemmed from the Soviet Union’s desire to honor individuals who displayed extraordinary commitment and heroism in military affairs, whether in peace or war. It was designed as a means to motivate both officers and soldiers by rewarding those who performed their duties with distinction.

The order’s design reflects its ideological symbolism:

• The five-pointed star is a well-known symbol of communism and the Soviet Red Army.
• In the center of the star is an image of a Red Army soldier in full uniform, holding a rifle, which emphasizes the role of the common soldier.
• Surrounding the soldier is the inscription “Workers of the World, Unite!”—a core principle of the Soviet state.
• The medal is enameled in bright red, with silver highlights, making it visually striking.

Criteria for Award

Originally, the Order of the Red Star could be awarded to both soldiers and civilians, including military personnel, Red Army units, ships, and even entire institutions, for their contributions to the defense of the Soviet Union. However, during World War II, it became heavily associated with acts of personal bravery in combat.

The official criteria included:

• Displaying exceptional courage, valor, and resourcefulness in the face of the enemy.
• Demonstrating exemplary leadership that resulted in successful military operations.
• Contributing to the advancement of Soviet military science or technology.
• Proactively engaging in the defense of Soviet territory.

Role During World War II

World War II, known in Russia as the Great Patriotic War (1941-1945), saw the mass mobilization of Soviet forces against Nazi Germany. The Order of the Red Star became one of the most awarded medals during this period, recognizing the sacrifices and heroism of Soviet soldiers and officers.

Soviet soldiers who performed extraordinary feats, such as holding key positions against enemy forces, rescuing comrades under fire, or launching daring counterattacks, were commonly recognized with this award. Similarly, officers who demonstrated tactical brilliance or led their units through particularly intense battles were also recipients.

The medal was often awarded alongside other high honors, such as the Order of the Patriotic War or the Hero of the Soviet Union, marking its importance within the hierarchy of Soviet decorations.

Notable Recipients

Some of the most decorated Soviet soldiers and commanders of World War II received the Order of the Red Star, often multiple times. Notable figures include:

• Marshal Georgy Zhukov, one of the most celebrated Soviet military leaders, who played a pivotal role in the Battle of Stalingrad and the capture of Berlin.
• Lyudmila Pavlichenko, a famed Soviet sniper credited with over 300 confirmed kills, was also awarded the medal for her contributions on the Eastern Front.
• Vasily Zaitsev, another famous sniper from the Battle of Stalingrad, was recognized with the Order of the Red Star for his extraordinary accuracy and bravery.

In some cases, soldiers would receive multiple Red Star medals over the course of the war for repeated acts of courage, highlighting the sustained efforts of the Soviet military personnel.