Gold Medal of Hero of DPRK, Type 1 Variation 1, circa early to mid-1950s issue.
Silver gilt, enamel. Medallion measures 37.1 mm in height including the eyelet is 33.7 mm in width; weighs 15.2 g not including the suspension and connecting link; overall weight with suspension and screw plate is 27.7 g. This is the earliest version of the DPRK Hero award. The inscription on the reverse of the medallion is different from later types in that it appears in raised letters in one curved line. Features 3.9 mm thick screw post of the suspension device, much thicker than on the Type 2 issues.
Like all early North Korean awards, this piece was manufactured by the
Silver gilt, enamel. Medallion measures 37.1 mm in height including the eyelet is 33.7 mm in width; weighs 15.2 g not including the suspension and connecting link; overall weight with suspension and screw plate is 27.7 g. This is the earliest version of the DPRK Hero award. The inscription on the reverse of the medallion is different from later types in that it appears in raised letters in one curved line. Features 3.9 mm thick screw post of the suspension device, much thicker than on the Type 2 issues.
Like all early North Korean awards, this piece was manufactured by the Soviet Mint. Its Soviet origin is clearly evident from the clues such as the surface stippling and construction of the suspension device. Note in particular that the rectangular back plate and hexagon nut of the suspension are practically identical to that of Soviet Hero Stars. The screw plate likewise closely resembles screw plates for the Soviet Hero Stars, although without the mint logo.
In outstanding, excellent condition. The apex of the star shows just the slightest wear whereas its ridges are very crisp and facets have only some tiny dings. The less exposed rays of starburst are practically pristine. Both the enamel and gold plating are beautifully preserved. The reverse has minuscule contact marks from normal wear but no significant scratches or other flaws. The suspension device is original and complete including the screw plate. The ribbon is old, almost certainly original to the decoration; it shows a bit of wear on the edges but is still sound, clean and overall very presentable.
This very rare DPRK Hero medal is likely one of about 500 issued by the end of the Korean War.
/See page 45 in Military and Civil Awards of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) by Sessler & McDaniel/
$7,500.00 Add to cart