Russian Empire Medal for Russo Turkish War 1877-78 vs Turkey light bronze ORIGNL

This is a GUARANTEED ORIGINAL medal from the last quarter of XIX C. The medallion is in brass ("light bronze"), measures 32.0 mm in width including the eyelet, 26.2 mm in width, and weighs 10.5 g not including the suspension and connecting link. The obverse shows an Eastern Orthodox cross standing upon a Muslim crescent. Inscription to the reverse reads: "Not Unto Us, Not Unto Us, But in Thy Name".

The medal is in GOOD condition, especially for an award that is almost 150 years old. It shows a lot of wear to the high points and the eyelet. Nevertheless, the details of the artwork and inscription are still well-defined. The eyelet got thinned out by the friction with the connecting link but remains completely sound.

The edge is free of bumps or nicks. There is dark patina throughout, but no blemishes or oxidation spots. The medal comes with an appropriate brand-new St. George ribbon in moiré silk mounted on a Soviet-era suspension device.

The connecting link is a replacement. The light bronze medal was awarded to all army and navy ranks who directly participated in any battles in Bulgaria or on Caucasian front, or in naval engagements in the Black Sea.

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