Medal of the Founding Volunteers of the Lithuanian Army

SKU: 02.LTU.0102.101.01

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Estimated market value:

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Attributes

country

Lithuania
date of institution

February 27, 1928
makers

Huguenin, Le Locle
remarks

The medal was designed by the artist Adomas Smetona. It is believed that up to 12000 medals were produced during this period, but it is uncertain how many survived the occupation.

History

The Medal of the Founding Volunteers of the Lithuanian Army was established in 1928. It was suppressed during the Soviet occupation, but it was re-instated following the collapse of the Soviet regime and the declaration of the Republic of Lithuania. It was a state award from 1991-2002, but it has since been administered by the Ministry of National Defence.

Prior to its suppression, the Medal was awarded to Lithuanian citizens who contributed to the foundation of the Lithuanian Armed Forces and national defence in general. Since its reinstatement, it has been awarded to participants of the armed resistance during the Soviet occupation from 1940-1991.

The Bronze Medal (stamped "HUGUENIN SC.," 1928-1940) inscription translates to "To the Volunteers."

There are two versions of the medal that differ slightly in inscription. The current version is listed in the Medals and Decorations of the Republic of Lithuania (1991-).