Silver Ostvolk Medal with Swords – 2nd Class – 100

Product Description:  A finely preserved Silver Ostvolk Medal with Swords – 2nd Class – 100, retaining a large amount of its original factory applied silver finish to both obverse and reverse. The surfaces exhibit an even patina, with wear revealing the underlying zinc base metal throughout, mainly at the high points.

This particular medal is marked “100” for Wachtler & Lange. The medal is accompanied by an approximately 4-inch length of its original ribbon, correctly rendered in green with twin white stripes, as prescribed for the 2nd Class Silver variant.  The ribbon has a tack and some glue or other residue on back from being mounted in some way.

Overall condition is excellent, with strong eye appeal and crisp detail throughout. A compelling example of the Silver Ostvolk Medal with Swords – 2nd Class – 100.

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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