History

Silver medal for Bravery was established by Prince Bishop Petar II Petrović-Njegoš as an award for deeds of bravery on the field of battle.
Silver medal for Bravery was the first decoration to be instituted in Montenegro.
Silver medal for Bravery was officially founded in 1841 but first medals were minted two years before. They had not been accepted due to poor quality workmanship.
Mint Vincent Mayer of Vienna made the medal between 1860 and 1900. There is a signature “V.M.” (Vincent Mayer) on the rim of the medal, together with the silver mark of fineness “800/1000”.
The medals made in mint Vincent Mayer have roller-shaped suspensions.
The size of the medal was 36 mm in diameter.
Until 1895, the medal was worn on a trifold ribbon in the colors of the Montenegrin flag (Red – Blue – White). From 1895 to the end of World War I, the ribbon was white with crimson stripes along both sides of the ribbon edge.
Obverse: Crowned double-headed eagle, a state symbol of Montenegro, dating back to 15th century.
Reverse: Small cross, two crossed swords, text: “ВЬРА / СВОБОДА / ЗА / ХРАБРОСТЬ” (Faith, Freedom, for Bravery) and a wreath of laurel and palm below.