Shield-shaped silvered metal and red enamel medal with loop for ribbon suspension; the face with a red enamel shield bearing an arm holding a sword and the three stars of Latvia, laurel and oak branches to left and right, inscribed above PAR TĒVZEMI (For the Fatherland) and dated ‘1918 1920’; the reverse plain; on original ribbon in Slavic style. The medal was instituted on 2 May 1922 by the Constitutional Assembly to be awarded to Latvian citizens who served in the national army during War of Liberation from 18 November 1918 to 11 August 1920. The cross gammée, often referred to by its Sanskrit name ‘swastika’, that appears on the hilt of the sword on this medal is present in many cultures as a symbol of good luck. Its use on this medal is as the 'fire cross' (Ugunskrusts), pre-dates its use by the German National Socialists (Nazis) and has no connection with them. A good example in original condition.
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