Even though the old Soviet Union has long passed from the scene there is a consistency of style in the new versions of their military medals that could make the old time Soviet collectors feel right at home. The hammer and sickle has been replaced with the double headed eagle but not much else has changed. The designs in my opinion are still of what was called “socialistic realism” and many of the medals are still just as cheaply made. For example here we have the new Russian Excellent Frontier Guard awards in I class with tri-color broach, II class with red broach and III class with emerald green broach. All are stamped out of 1.3mm thick aluminum which gives each good detail and durability while at the same time being very light weight. The reverse is a concave version of the obverse. Most practical of all are the enameled broaches which simulate cloth ribbons. This old Soviet idea means that most of these will last a life time without fading , getting soiled or frayed. I guess I must conclude here that cheap isn’t always bad.
FREE TOOLS AND DOWNLOADS
Subscribe to Numismatic News
More Numismatic Magazines
Polls
Should the U.S. Mint hold more open competitions to design U.S. coins?
Loading ...Community Voice
You have a voice with us. Make your opinion heard on current coin collecting news and events, and get published.
- Register today to submit a letter to the editor!

Letters to the Editor
- This week's letters (06/04/13) When we embarked on this journey with our Uncle George Walton’s 1913 Liberty Head Nickel 10 years ago, we had no idea what we would be install for. What an experience it has been!


Marketplace Links
Coin & Paper Money Classifieds
Place an ad to buy or sell coins online in our classifieds section.
Numismatic Directory
Browse our industry directory of coin dealers online, world coin dealers, paper money dealers, coin collecting supplies, coin auctions and more.
Numismaster Coin Price Guide
Look up coin values with the Numismaster coin price guide.
Coin & Paper Money Auctions
Check out upcoming coin auctions.






