2000s Russian FSB Federal Security Service “For Merit in Counterintelligence” Medal – Rare Original Issue

Description

Original Item – Only One Available. A scarce early departmental decoration of Russia’s Federal Security Service, created for the counterintelligence sphere at the center of the FSB’s institutional mission. The Medal “For Merit in Counterintelligence” was instituted by Order No. 513 of the Director of the FSB on 29 July 2004 and was subsequently retained in the Service’s official regulations governing the precedence and wear of departmental awards. It belongs to the specialized series established for the FSB’s principal operational disciplines, alongside the corresponding decorations for intelligence, counterterrorism, economic security, border activity, and information security.

The medal is a substantial brass construction, finished with deep blue and dark red enamel. Its obverse centers on the heraldic sword and shield of the Russian security services: a gilt double-headed state eagle mounted over the red-enameled shield, enclosed by a silvered border and framed by a broad laurel wreath. A dark-blue scroll carries the raised inscription “For Merit in Counterintelligence.” The reverse bears the full institutional title “Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation,” enclosed by laurel branches. The medal is suspended from blue pentagonal ribbon with narrow yellow stripes and retains the complete original pin assembly.

Condition is excellent overall, with strong finishes, glossy enamel, crisp raised detail, and an attractive light patina to the gilt surfaces. Minor age-related handling marks and limited wear to the reverse ribbon mounting are visible under close photography, while the suspension ring, backing plate, pin, and catch remain complete. An impressive early example from the first decade of the award, representing one of the most specialized fields within the modern Russian state-security system and a strong addition to an advanced collection of FSB, counterintelligence, or post-Soviet departmental awards.