Third Reich “Souvenir” Belt

Here’s an unusual war souvenir, likely put together by a Russian soldier, consisting of a black leather service belt and buckle, decorated with five second class iron crosses, and six “Medal for Gallantry and Merit for Members of the Eastern Peoples” (Tapferkeits-und Verdienstauszeichnung für Ostvölker), known as the Ostvolk Medal, established on 14 July 1942. It was awarded to volunteers from the former Soviet Union fighting alongside German forces, for bravery or merit. Issued in two classes, silver and gold, with distinctions for bravery (with swords), and merit (without swords). This belt has six of these awards attached-two in gold without swords, the remainder in silver with swords.
All of the iron crosses( five in total) retain their suspension loops, in which some makers marks are visible.
Belt buckle is an early, SA enlisted pattern, void of marks to the rear, in exceptional condition. Belt leather is sound and some 36 inches in length, having the awards securely attached.
Superb centre piece to a medal collection.

Code: 54449