The Soviet Army – Books – Soviet Orders and Medals by Paul McDaniel and Paul Schmitt

Review:

This book is the first of its kind, in any language, to catalogue by type, variation and serial number, the wide variety of Soviet orders and medals. The book explains not only the history of each award, but the official statutes and regulations governing them, and contains over 630 color and 50 b/w photographs. The obverse and reverse of each type and variation are illustrated, as well as soldiers, sailors and civilians wearing their decorations. Rarity ratings are assigned to each type and variation and there is a separate chapter for the examination of items associated with Soviet orders and medals. There is also a section within each chapter which examines fakes that have been observed by the authors. This reference will be a valuable guide for the Soviet order and medal collector or anyone interested in this unique aspect of Soviet History.

‘This is one of the most important medal books of the decade. Finally, we have an authoritative and complete book on Soviet orders and medals… This book will absolutely be the ‘bible’ for collectors of Soviet orders and medals, and that is only to be expected. However, it will also open up the field to new collectors as well by giving them information not previousely available and by reducing – if not eliminating – the risk of getting stung by bad material. Even if you don’t collect Soviet material, I strongly recommend adding this book to your library if for no other reason than because it is so well done, so impressive, and so interesting!’ The Journal of the Orders and Medals Society of America, August-September, 1997.