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Medal of an Attendee of the International Conference of Veterans of War and Participants of "Antifascist" Liberation Movements in Moscow in 1965, with original Case of Issue.

In brass with silver-plating, gilt, and enamels. The quality is superb throughout. Medallion measures 35.8 mm tall (incl. eyelet), 30.1 mm wide; overall height with suspension is approx. 48 mm. An interesting and unusual artwork featuring a Latin "V" for Victory, a clear indication that many of the medals were intended for foreigners, some of whom came from the western countries. The reverse has a raised inscription "International Conference of Veterans of War and Participants of Antifascist Liberation Struggle. Moscow". The enamel on the suspension is royal blue (incidentally, a traditional color of Soviet State Security which supervised partisan movement on the enemy-occupied territories.) On the reverse of the suspension is a raised logo "LMD" of the Leningrad Mint.

The Case of Issue is in cardboard wrapped in blue leatherette, with the impressed gold inscription "Soviet War Veterans Committee" on the lid. The internal pad is wrapped in blue satin and has a retaining string for the medal.

Excellent condition. The enamels and finish are perfect. The box is likewise pristine.

In the mid-60s, the fledgling Brezhnev administration made a renewed effort to propagandize the Soviet role in WW2 both domestically and abroad. Starting from that point, increased benefits and attention were given to hitherto largely neglected Soviet veterans. In 1965, the May 9th Victory Day was for the first time celebrated in the Soviet Union as a national non-working holiday; the first of the Victory Anniversary medals was awarded during the same year. The period marked the beginning of attempts to reduce antagonism with the West (albeit ostensibly) and simultaneously improve the image of the USSR in foreign countries. Not coincidentally, an international veteran conference was organized in Moscow at the same time. Large part of its attendees were members of anti-Nazi resistance movements in Europe (the Soviets of course preferred to call them "Antifascist" because the term National Socialism hit way too close to socialist home).



Item# 43734

$95.00  Add to cart

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