Ostvolk Medal Second Class in Silver with Swords

Product Description: This is a great representative example of the Ostvolk Medal Second Class in Silver with Swords. The medal is made of zinc, and retains much more of the original silver finish than is typically encountered. The original silver finish on this award is 95 percent intact! This is the version with swords, meaning it was the type awarded for acts of bravery. There is an even, minor patina on both the front and reverse of the medal. This Ostvolk Medal Second Class in Silver with Swords is complete with its original ribbon, which is of course the correct ribbon for this class and grade. The ribbon retains its original pin attachment, which is intact and functional. The ribbon is crisp and has only extremely minor age toning. This Ostvolk Medal Second Class in Silver with Swords remains in excellent condition. It would be hard to find a nicer example of this award.

Historical Description: The Ostvolk Medal (Ostvolkmedaille) was originally introduced on July 14, 1942, and was designed by Elmar Lang. The official German designation for the award was “Tapferkeits- und Verdienstauszeichnung für Angehörige der Ostvölker” which translates to :”Bravery and Merit Award for Members of Eastern Peoples.” These awards were intended to reward former citizens of the Soviet Union who served alongside the German armed forces as collaborators, particularly in the Eastern Front. The award was given to personnel including Cossacks, members of Schuma security units, and members of units of the Sicherheitspolizei and SD. By the fall of 1942, German troops serving in units made up of Eastern volunteers were also eligible for this medal. The award was issued in a somewhat confusing array of variations. The First Class award was a pin back award that was worn on the uniform pocket, while the Second Class award was a medal suspended from a ribbon. Both the First Class and Second Class versions were made with swords, indicating bravery, and without swords, which was an award for merit. Both the First Class and Second Class awards, with or without swords, were also made in Bronze, Silver and Gold grades. Only about 7,000 of these, in all grades, were awarded, making this a rather rare award.

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