WW2 Original German Winterschlacht im Osten Eastern Front Medal
SKU: 676
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Deschler & Sohn, München
Size / Dimensions: Approximately 36 mm (1.42 inches)
Weight: approximately 16–20 grams
Materials / Construction: Zinc with silvered finish
Ribbon: Distinctive red (sides), white-black-white (center) ribbon.
Markings: 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 Original German Winterschlacht im Osten 1941/42 Medal, commonly referred to by collectors as the Eastern Front Medal or “Ostmedaille.” This award was instituted on 26 May 1942 by Adolf Hitler to recognize German and Axis personnel who served during the brutal winter campaign on the Eastern Front between 15 November 1941 and 15 April 1942.
The medal commemorates the extreme conditions endured by German troops during the first winter of the war against the Soviet Union. Because of the severe cold, heavy casualties, and brutal fighting, soldiers often nicknamed the award the “Frozen Meat Medal” (Gefrierfleischorden).
Historical Background
The Winterschlacht im Osten campaign medal was awarded to members of the Wehrmacht, Waffen-SS, Luftwaffe, Kriegsmarine personnel serving in the eastern theater, and certain auxiliary and allied forces. Qualification requirements included:
- 14 days of combat service on the Eastern Front
- 60 days of non-combat service in the theater of operations
- Wounded in action while serving in the campaign
- Killed in action, awarded posthumously
The award symbolized the hardships of the winter battles around Moscow, Leningrad, and across the vast Eastern Front, where German troops faced extreme temperatures often dropping below −30°C (−22°F) along with fierce Soviet resistance.
Design & Construction
The medal was produced by numerous German manufacturers and is constructed of zinc with a silver wash, with a darkened center to enhance detail.
Obverse Features:
- Wehrmacht steel helmet resting on a stick grenade
- German national eagle clutching a swastika beneath the helmet
- Detailed wreath surrounding the central device
Reverse Features:
- Inscription: “WINTERSCHLACHT IM OSTEN 1941/42”
- A crossed sword and laurel branch below the inscription
- Raised rim surrounding the edge of the medal
Many examples retain original finish and show typical zinc toning developed over decades.
Ribbon
The medal is suspended from its distinctive ribbon:
- Red center stripe representing bloodshed and sacrifice
- White stripes symbolizing snow and winter conditions
- Black outer stripes representing mourning for the fallen
Ribbon width is approximately 30 mm (1.18 inches) and was worn on the left side of the uniform ribbon bar or suspended from the medal for parade wear.
Specifications
- Medal Diameter: approximately 36 mm (1.42 inches)
- Material: Zinc with silvered finish
- Ribbon Width: approximately 30 mm (1.18 inches)
- Weight: approximately 16–20 grams
- Suspension: Steel ring attached to medal loop
Condition
This original WWII German Eastern Front Medal remains in excellent collectible condition, showing crisp detail with attractive period patina consistent with age. The medal retains strong definition in the helmet, grenade, and wreath details, with a clean reverse inscription. The ribbon may be original wartime issue or period replacement depending on the example.
