The Order for Service to the Homeland in the Armed Forces of the USSR (Орден За службу Родине в Вооружённых Силах СССР) was a Soviet military decoration established on October 28, 1974. It was awarded to military personnel of the Soviet Army, Navy, Border Troops, and Internal Troops for excellence in service, combat readiness, technical development, and acts of courage.
This particular piece is numbered 69442, signifying its place in the official award registry.
Specifications
Dimensions: 57.99 mm (height) x 57.98 mm (width)
Material: Silver, enamel, gilding
Serial Number: 69442 (engraved on reverse)
Historical Significance
Peacetime Military Recognition
Unlike most Soviet military decorations, this order recognized peacetime achievements, focusing on military excellence and innovation.
Final Major Soviet Military Order
One of the last significant Soviet military awards before the collapse of the USSR.
Predecessor to Modern Russian Awards
With the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the order was discontinued.
In 1994, Russia revived the Cross of St. George, reinstating imperial-era traditions for recognizing military service.
The Order for Service to the Homeland in the Armed Forces of the USSR is a prestigious Soviet military award, recognizing excellence, technical innovation, and combat readiness. The unique design, historical importance, and privileges granted to recipients make it a highly collectible and symbolic piece of Soviet military history.
Authenticity:
The serial number (69442) confirms official issuance.
The Monetny Dvor mint mark verifies Soviet-era production.