Poland 1943–1973 People's Army Commemorative Medal – FJN Poznań – Polish Military Badge PRL
Original 1943–1973 Polish People’s Army commemorative medal issued by the Front Jedności Narodu (Front of National Unity – FJN) in Poznań. This medal was created to mark the 30th anniversary of the founding of the Polish People’s Army (Ludowe Wojsko Polskie) in 1943, during the era of the People's Republic of Poland (PRL).
The medal features a powerful design rooted in Cold War–era socialist realism and is a valuable collectible for historians and enthusiasts of communist-era military memorabilia.
Details:
Obverse: A soldier in profile wearing a helmet with the Polish eagle insignia. Around the edge are branch emblems of the Polish People's Army.
Top Bar: Polish national colors (white-red) with the dates 1943 – 1973 and a crowned eagle in the center.
Reverse Inscription:
FJN POZNAŃ
ŻOŁNIERZE LUDOWEGO WOJSKA POLSKIEGO
ZAWSZE WIERNI NARODOWI PARTII I WŁADZY LUDOWEJ
(Translation: FJN POZNAŃ – Soldiers of the Polish People’s Army – Always faithful to the Nation, the Party, and the People’s Authority)
Diameter: Approx. 45.67 mm
Material: Bronze-tone metal
Attachment: Original pinback – functional, with signs of age
Condition:
Good vintage condition with visible signs of age, patina, and minor oxidation (especially on the pinback). The item is unpolished and has been preserved in its original state for authenticity. Please refer to the photos for exact condition.
Historical Note:
This is not a state-issued military decoration but rather a commemorative political medal distributed by the FJN (a communist-era umbrella organization controlled by the ruling party, PZPR). These medals were typically awarded during official anniversaries, parades, or political events and symbolized loyalty to the communist regime.
This is a valuable piece for collectors interested in Polish military memorabilia, Cold War artifacts, Warsaw Pact history, PRL-era propaganda, and political collectibles from the Eastern Bloc.