St. George’s Cross – Special Manchurian Detachment, White Army A172

A faithful reproduction of the Soldier’s Cross of St. George awarded to the Special Manchurian Detachment (S.M.D.) of Ataman Grigory Semenov during the Russian Civil War (1917–1922). Originals are virtually unobtainable; this reproduction captures the historic look for study, display, film, or reenactment.

Design details

• Obverse: St. George slaying the dragon; arms marked O-M-O with a radiant sun above—“Osobyi Manchzhurskii Otriad” (Special Manchurian Detachment).
• Reverse: Imperial cypher style, as on period pieces.
• Ribbon: Traditional black-orange St. George ribbon (as shown).

History (context)Formed in Manchuria in 1917, Semenov’s S.M.D. established a “For Bravery” cross in 1920 at Chita, equal in standing to the Order of St. George for his troops. After 1921 Semenov lived in exile across China, North America, and Japan; he was captured in 1945 and executed in 1946. Surviving awards from the unit are exceptionally scarce.

Notes

• Modern reproduction, not an original period award.
• Minor hand-finished variations may occur.
• Stand/box not included unless pictured.

Add this significant White Army piece to your collection and share the story of the S.M.D. and Ataman Semenov.