History

This medal was conferred upon distinguished veterans of the Russian Civil War and to those who had served 40 years in the Army or Navy by February 23, 1958, which was Red Army Day. It was also awarded to those who received the Order of the Red Banner. It was awarded to approximately 820,000 individuals.

The medal is composed of brass and measures 32mm in diameter. The ring at 12 o'clock was made as a part of the medal. The obverse depicts Lenin facing left and the number 40 is at the 6 o'clock position.

The reverse Russian inscription translates to: "In Commemoration of the Fortieth Anniversary of the Armed Forces of the USSR 1918-1958".