Ukraine. A Veteran's Pair Of Medals & Decorations

Military Cross of the Ukrainian National Republic, 40th Anniversary of the Renewal of the Ukrainian Armed Forces 1917-1957 (in bronze gilt with light blue and white enamels, dated "1917-1957" and numbered "163" on the reverse, measuring 40.8 mm (w) x 45 mm (h) inclusive of its integral ring); and Ukrainian Cossacks' Cross with Swords (in bronze gilt with red and blue enamels, measuring 39.7 mm (w) x 43 mm (h), inclusive of its at laterally-pierced ball suspension, gilt laurel branch, silvered laurel branch and gilt star on the ribbon). Mounted to suspension pad with maroon silk covering, intact enamels, original ribbons, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Military Cross of the Ukrainian National Republic, 40th Anniversary of the Renewal of the Ukrainian Armed Forces 1917-1957 was instituted on March 3, 1958 by the Presidium of the Ukrainian National Council. It was awarded by the President of the Ukrainian National Republic in Exile in the name of the Republic, to all participants in the Struggle for the Liberation of Ukraine. The Ukrainian Cossacks' Cross with Swords was instituted and confirmed on October 20, 1947 by the President of the Ukrainian National Republic in Exile, A. Livytsky, and the Minister of Military Affairs, Colonel-General M. Omeilanovych-Pavlenko. In 1966, the Main Decorating Council of the Ukrainian Free Cossacks awarded the cross to all members of the Ukrainian Free Cossacks, with some of the crosses having been awarded in 1950. A gilt laurel branch on the ribbon indicates that the recipient fought the enemies of Ukraine. A silvered laurel branch was bestowed on political prisoners or deportees. Gilt stars indicate the number of wounds received in battle.