Original screwplate. According to McDaniel's Encyclopedia, lowest S/N observed is 54076, and the highest is 424925. This particular Medal is prior to 1943, as well as all 3 Variations of the early suspension Type 1 Medal.
Established by a decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR on October 17, 1938.
The Medal was given for combat bravery. The first awardees were the border guards N. E. Gulyaev and B. F. Grigoryev, for combat action in the Lake Khasan area during July and August, 1938.
Prior to the beginning of WWII, some 26000 Medals for Bravery were awarded for actions during the Battles of Lake Khasan in 1938, Halhingol in 1939, and the Winter War with Finland in 1939-40.
During the Great Patriotic War, approximately 4 millions were awarded. By 1981, both Types and all Variations included, about 4.5 million had been awarded.
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