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Medal, Sputnik 1

National Air and Space Museum
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Object Details

Manufacturer
Leningrad Mint
Summary
Commemorative and medals are one way in which Russian and Soviet leaders have recognized accomplishments and individuals in the space program. Initially limited groups of people within the space program received medals. As the space programs grew in prestige and publicity, the medals increased in numbers and played an increasing role in celebrating the accomplishments of the space program. Ultimately, medals became the currency of diplomatic gifts from the Soviet Union. High government or industry officials would give these medals as gifts to their counterparts abroad, including the United States. The typical medals had the main, commemorative theme on the front and supporting statement on the reverse. This medal declares, "Glory to Soviet Science: October 4, 1957," in honor of the first launch of an artificial Earth satellite. An American collector donated this medal to the museum.
Credit Line
Gift of Thomas W. Becker
Inventory Number
A19731529000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
AWARDS-Medals & Ribbons
Materials
Copper Alloy (Bronze)
Dimensions
3-D (Medal): 5.4 × 0.5cm (2 1/8 × 3/16 in.)
Storage: 12.7 × 12.7 × 7.6cm (5 × 5 × 3 in.)
Country of Origin
USSR
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
National Air and Space Museum
Record ID
nasm_A19731529000
Metadata Usage (text)
Not determined
GUID (Link to Original Record)
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/nv9e8604538-39e6-4acd-909a-98f29159d48d

Related Content

  • 1957: A Year In The Collections

  • International Space

    Air and Space Museum
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