The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Decorations · Soviet medals

Medal for Victory over Germany: History, Grades and Collector’s Guide

Established 1945
Full title “For the Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945”
Awarded to Soldiers who served in the war against Germany
Typical paperwork Award certificate
In the collection No pieces currently available

The Medal “For the Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945” was given to millions of Soviet servicemen and women. It bears Stalin’s profile and is the medal most often seen on Soviet veterans’ jackets.

What Was the Medal for Victory over Germany?

The medal was established in 1945 for those who served in the war against Germany. Its obverse shows Stalin in profile. It was awarded in very large numbers, and Museum Berlin-Karlshorst holds examples in its collection.

Who Awarded It, and Which Documents Go With It?

Certificates name the recipient and unit and are often signed by a commander or official. See Joseph Stalin.

What Should Collectors Watch For?

  • Very common as a medal; value lies in named certificates and groups.
  • Later copies 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

This is the medal of a generation. Its interest lies in the people, and their papers, rather than in the metal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the full name of the medal?

“For the Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945”.

Whose portrait is on it?

Stalin’s.

Is it rare?

No; it was awarded in very large numbers.

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