Medaille "Reservist der Nationalen Volksarmee" - NVA Reservist Medal, East German Democratic Republic (DDR). Instituted 5 November 1965 by the Ministry of the Interior, this non-state decoration was awarded to reservists of the National People's Army upon successful completion of designated reservist training exercises.
The silver-coloured medallion bears a left-facing profile of a soldier wearing the distinctive East German steel helmet (Stahlhelm pattern) and service tunic, encircled by the raised inscription "RESERVIST DER NATIONALEN VOLKSARMEE" around the upper edge. Crossed oak-leaf branches form a base beneath the bust. The medal is suspended from a triangular mount in the German national colours of black, red, and gold, with the central red section bearing the East German state emblem (hammer and compass within a wreath of rye) and the letters "NVA" below.
Circa: 1965-1990 (DDR production). The design remained unchanged throughout the award's existence. The silver-coloured finish and construction are consistent with standard NVA production of the period.
Condition: Used. The silver-coloured finish shows light surface tarnishing and oxidation, particularly on the high points of the soldier's helmet and cheek. The raised lettering retains clear definition. The triangular ribbon suspension is intact with the enamel colours remaining strong - black, red, and gold all clearly visible. The GDR state emblem and "NVA" text on the ribbon are crisp. Minor age-related patina in the recessed areas. No bends, cracks, or repairs. Please review all three photos for condition detail.
Details:
A genuine piece of Cold War-era East German militaria. The NVA was the armed forces of the German Democratic Republic from 1956 until German reunification in 1990. Reservist medals were awarded across all three classes (bronze, silver, gold) for varying levels of training completion. An affordable entry point for collectors of Eastern Bloc and Cold War decorations.
Packed carefully and dispatched same day from the UK.
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