The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Decorations · Soviet medals

Medal for the Defence of Stalingrad: History, Grades and Collector’s Guide

Established 22 December 1942
Awarded to Soldiers and civilians who took part in the defence of Stalingrad
Awarded from 1943
Typical paperwork Certificate issued in the name of the Supreme Soviet
In the collection No pieces currently available

The Medal “For the Defence of Stalingrad” honours those who held the city in 1942–43, in the battle that turned the war in the East. It was one of the first Soviet campaign medals, and certificates naming individual defenders survive.

What Was the Medal for the Defence of Stalingrad?

The medal was established on 22 December 1942, while the battle was still raging. A certificate preserved by Centropa, issued to Captain of Medical Service Eva Ryzhevskaya on 6 September 1943 and signed by her division commander, states that the award was made in the name of the Supreme Soviet for the “heroic defence of Stalingrad”. Museum Berlin-Karlshorst holds the medal in its collection.

Who Awarded It, and Which Documents Go With It?

Certificates were issued by units and signed by commanders. A medal with a named certificate is a meaningful historical record. See Vasily Chuikov and Friedrich Paulus.

What Should Collectors Watch For?

  • Certificates should name the recipient and unit and carry a signature and stamp.
  • Copies of the medal exist.

Legal note. Trade in Soviet state awards is restricted in the Russian Federation, where buying and selling state decorations is a criminal offence, and export of historical items from Russia and other former Soviet states is controlled. Rules elsewhere differ; check the law in your country and in the country of origin before buying or shipping.

Collector’s Note

Stalingrad material from both sides belongs together in a collection. The defenders’ certificates are among the most human documents of the battle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Medal for the Defence of Stalingrad established?

On 22 December 1942.

Could civilians receive it?

Yes, those who took part in the defence.

Who signed the certificates?

Usually the unit commander, in the name of the Supreme Soviet.

Historical Responsibility Notice: this entry documents historical figures and artefacts of the Soviet period for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology, and it is written in memory of the victims of political repression and war.

References & Further Reading