WW2 Original German Winterschlacht im Osten Eastern Front Medal by Richard Simm & Sons
SKU: 675
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Richard Simm & Sons
Size / Dimensions: Approximately 36 mm
Materials / Construction: Zinc with darkened finish
Ribbon: Distinctive red (sides), white-black-white (center) ribbon.
Markings: 93, 1941/42
Condition: Very Good/96%
Price: $100.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: EM75
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This is an Original WWII German Winterschlacht im Osten Medal, commonly known as the Eastern Front Medal or “Gefrierfleischorden” (Frozen Meat Medal) by German soldiers, was awarded to Wehrmacht personnel who served on the brutal Eastern Front during the winter campaign of 1941–1942. This example is an authentic wartime piece and is presented in very good condition, clearly displaying the iconic “Winterschlacht im Osten 1941/42” inscription.
Instituted on 26 May 1942 by Adolf Hitler, the medal commemorated the extreme hardships endured by German forces during the first winter of Operation Barbarossa. Soldiers who experienced the intense fighting and severe winter conditions of the Soviet campaign were eligible for this award. It quickly became one of the most widely issued German campaign medals of the Second World War.
Medal Design
The medal features a distinctive and symbolic design representing the Eastern Front campaign.
Obverse:
The front depicts a German army helmet resting on top of a stick grenade, symbolizing frontline combat. Below this motif is a spread-winged Wehrmacht eagle clutching a swastika, all enclosed within a circular wreath.
Reverse:
The reverse is inscribed with “WINTERSCHLACHT IM OSTEN 1941/42” (Winter Battle in the East 1941/42), commemorating the brutal winter campaign against the Soviet Union.
Construction
The medal is typically constructed of zinc with a darkened or gunmetal finish, featuring a blackened center with raised highlights. The outer rim retains a silvered appearance which contrasts with the darker center field.
Ribbon
The medal was worn on a distinctive ribbon consisting of:
- Red center stripe – representing the bloodshed of battle
- White stripes – symbolizing the harsh winter conditions
- Black outer stripes – representing mourning for fallen soldiers
Specifications
- Period: WWII (Third Reich)
- Campaign: Eastern Front Winter Campaign 1941–1942
- Material: Zinc with darkened finish
- Diameter: Approximately 36 mm
- Condition: Very Good Condition with strong detail and clear date inscription 1941/42
Historical Significance
Over 3 million medals were awarded, making it one of the most recognizable German campaign awards of the war. Despite the large number issued, authentic wartime examples remain highly collectible due to their historical association with Operation Barbarossa and the harsh winter fighting on the Eastern Front.
