Soviet Russian Forty Years of Victory in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945 Medal
A good example of the Soviet “Forty Years of Victory in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945” medal, issued in 1985 to mark the 40th anniversary of the end of the Second World War on the Eastern Front. Awarded to surviving veterans of the Red Army, Navy, NKVD, partisans, labour volunteers and home-front workers, the medal was also presented during commemorative events to foreign veterans who had participated alongside Soviet forces.
Struck in gilt-coloured alloy, the obverse features the instantly recognisable Soviet star with laurel wreath and radiating lines symbolising victory, with the dates 1945–1985 prominently displayed. The reverse carries the inscription celebrating four decades since the defeat of Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War. It is fitted with its correct ribbon of red with a central black-and-orange “Guard’s” stripe, echoing the colours of the Ribbon of St George and representing bravery and sacrifice.
These anniversary medals were worn proudly by veterans during parades, reunions and state ceremonies in the closing years of the Soviet Union. Today they remain popular with collectors for their strong historical association with the Eastern Front—one of the largest and most costly theatres of the Second World War—and for their place within the broader series of Soviet jubilee and commemorative awards.
A solid, well-presented example of this iconic Soviet victory anniversary medal.
AJMS Medals