Ice Cross C.S.I.R. Italian Expeditionary Corps in Russia

Product overview

The Croce di Ghiaccio C.S.I.R. Corpo Spedizione Italiano in Russia is a commemorative medal for collectors, historians, and military memorabilia enthusiasts interested in Italian units from the World War II Eastern Front. It is a historically accurate replica/issue tied to the Corpo Spedizione Italiano in Russia (C.S.I.R.) campaign of 1941–1942. Definition: a 37 mm ice-white enameled cross awarded to members of the Italian expeditionary corps to Russia.

This medal is a collectible military piece often sought by military surplus and tactical-gear collectors, as well as duty and police memorabilia collectors. Availability is limited, and demand from history-focused buyers and collectors is typically high.

Main features

Key identifying features and historical details of the Croce di Ghiaccio C.S.I.R.

• Distinctive design: patent cross (croce patente) with a cambretta attachment, enameled in ice-white to reflect the Eastern Front climate.
• Quality finish: fully edged with a silver-colored cord border for a durable, period-accurate appearance.
• Historical engravings: center reverse marked C.S.I.R.; arms engraved with NJEPR DONETZ, BUG, DON; lower arm stamped "LUGLIO 941 942" as on the original piece.
• Ribbon: mounted on a bipartite white-and-black ribbon, representing the colours of Udine, the departure city of the expedition.
• Size: available in the 37 mm format (3.5 cm), suitable for display or storage with other military surplus items.

How to use / When it’s useful

Quick answer: Use this medal as a display item, a reference for historical study, or as part of a military collection. It is primarily a collectible and display piece rather than modern duty gear.

In most cases, collectors present it in a display case, frame, or with other military memorabilia to preserve condition and provenance. It is also useful for museums, reenactors, and historical research where accurate period items are required.

Care and notes

Basic care recommendations and important notes to keep the medal in good condition.

• Store in a dry, stable environment away from direct sunlight to prevent enamel fading and metal tarnish.
• Handle with clean hands or gloves to avoid oils and fingerprints on the enamel and edging.
• Check the product listing for current stock; availability is limited and quantities may change.
• Note the reverse inscription reads "LUGLIO 941 942" as stamped on the piece; descriptions follow the actual marking on the medal.

FAQ

Q: What are the dimensions of the Croce di Ghiaccio C.S.I.R.?

A: The medal is supplied in the 37 mm format, with an overall size of approximately 3.5 cm. This is the standard size listed for this item.

Q: What materials and finish does the cross have?

A: The cross is enameled in an ice-white color and edged with a silver-coloured cord border. The description matches the visible finish and edging of the medal.

Q: Which battles or locations are engraved on the medal?

A: The four arms are engraved with the main localities recorded on the piece: NJEPR DONETZ, BUG, DON. These mark the principal areas of engagement for the C.S.I.R.

Q: What do the ribbon colours represent?

A: The bipartite white-and-black ribbon reflects the colours of Udine, the city from which the Italian expedition departed. It is part of the historical design.

Q: Can I buy more than one medal?

A: Purchase quantity depends on current stock levels. Due to limited availability, check the product quantity on the listing before placing an order.

Q: Is this item suitable for tactical or duty use?

A: This is a commemorative and collectible item intended for display and historical purposes. It is not intended as modern duty equipment or tactical gear.

Tip: Choose the correct size/variant where offered and consider viewing related medals and military surplus items to complete a display or collection.