History

This medal was established by Catherine the Great in commemoration of the naval battle of Chesma, which took place in 1770.

The smaller medal was awarded to sailors and soldiers who participated in the battle. The larger medal was conferred upon petty officers.

The obverse inscription translates to: "By the Grace of God Catherine II Empress and Autocrat of All Russias". The reverse inscription translates to: "I Was There in Chesma July 24 1770".