German WWII Russian Front Medal-This infamous medal is also known as the “frozen meat” medal, and was awarded to those who served during the first winter campaign in Russia. It is a good example with a short portion of original issued ribbon still attached. The ribbon is near excellent, with no wear and bright colors. This example is constructed in silvered and blackened zinc. The finish is mostly missing on this example, but the zinc disc is a darker tone than the silvered helmet at the top giving this a good look. The medal is nice and smooth, and this hasn’t affected the details at all. By this I mean sometimes when the zinc starts to age, it gets a bit bumpy. This is not the case here. This has nice contrast and nice details. This is a handsome example of this “frozen meat” medal.
History: The Russian Front Medal was instituted by Adolf Hitler on May 26th, 1942 to commemorate the first winter campaign in Russia. The award was available to all Wehrmacht personnel, civilians and foreign volunteers who met the required criteria with the main qualification being at least fourteen days of participation in combat on the Russian front between November 15th, 1941 and April 15th, 1942 within preset geographical boundaries or a minimum of two weeks of combat, have 30 days over enemy territory as flying personnel, being wounded or getting a frozen limb for which the wound badge was awarded, or a minimum of 60 days continuous time the combat zone.