This lot includes two variations of the Miloš Obilić Medal for Bravery, one in full size and a smaller version, both awarded for extraordinary acts of courage and bravery. The Miloš Obilić Medal for Bravery is among Serbia’s most prestigious military decorations, named after the legendary Serbian knight Miloš Obilić, who famously fought at the Battle of Kosovo in 1389.
Specifications
- Institution: Awarded during the Kingdom of Serbia and later the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia).
- Purpose: Recognized acts of exceptional bravery, particularly in military conflicts such as:
- The Balkan Wars (1912–1913).
- World War I and other conflicts.
- Medal Variations in this Lot:
Full-size Medal – Diameter: 35.70 mm.
Smaller Version – Diameter: 30.87 mm, with a heavily worn ribbon (please refer to pictures for condition).
- Condition:
- Full-size medal: Good, minimal wear with sharp details on both sides.
- Smaller medal: Ribbon in poor condition, affecting wearability but not historical authenticity.
Design Features
Obverse (Front)
- Bust of Miloš Obilić, depicted in knight’s armor, symbolizing:
- Bravery.
- Honor.
- Chivalry.
- Inscription in Serbian Cyrillic: "Милош Обилић" (Miloš Obilić), honoring the legendary hero.
- Fine craftsmanship, with detailed armor and lifelike engraving.
Reverse (Back)
- Inscription in Serbian Cyrillic: "За храброст" ("For Bravery") – emphasizing the medal’s purpose.
- Minimalistic yet bold design, ensuring that the message of valor stands out.
Suspension & Ribbon
- Full-size medal retains its original features.
- Smaller medal has a worn-out ribbon, but the medal itself remains intact.
Historical Context
The Legacy of Miloš Obilić
- Miloš Obilić is a legendary Serbian warrior, believed to have assassinated Sultan Murad I at the Battle of Kosovo in 1389.
- His sacrifice for the Serbian nation made him a symbol of ultimate heroism and national pride.
Awarding of the Miloš Obilić Medal
- Issued under the Kingdom of Serbia, later continued in the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (which became Yugoslavia).
- Presented to soldiers and officers for demonstrating exceptional bravery in battle.
- Frequently awarded to Serbian and allied soldiers during:
- The Balkan Wars (1912–1913).
- World War I (1914–1918) – Serbia’s military suffered tremendous losses, making this award particularly significant.
- Later conflicts under Yugoslav rule.
This lot of two Miloš Obilić Medals for Bravery is a prestigious and historically significant military award, commemorating Serbian heroism during major conflicts.
- Full-size Medal (35.70 mm) – In very good condition, with detailed engraving and sharp inscriptions.
- Smaller Medal (30.87 mm) – Medal intact, ribbon in poor condition.
Both medals remain valuable collector’s items, reflecting the bravery of Serbian warriors and their role in 20th-century military history.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, engraving quality, and overall presentation.