Somalia & Afghanistan | Cold War Era | Original Issue
Key Information
Country: Somalia / Afghanistan
Period: 1960s–1980s
Type: Military campaign & commemorative medals
Condition: For condition, please refer to the pictures
Dimensions: All dimensions are approximate
Medal 1
Somalia – Ethiopian Campaign Medal 1964
Diameter: approx. 33.73 mm
Material: Bronze
Ribbon: Blue and yellow ribbon (Somali national colors)
Obverse:
State emblem of the Somali Republic with two leopards supporting a shield and star.
Inscription:
“REPUBBLICA SOMALA”
Translation: “Republic of Somalia”
Reverse:
Inscription:
“CAMPAGNA SOMALO-ETIOPICA – GENNAIO APRILE 1964”
Translation: “Somali–Ethiopian Campaign – January–April 1964”
Historical Note:
This medal commemorates Somalia’s participation in the 1964 border conflict with Ethiopia, one of the first armed clashes following Somalia’s independence (1960). Awarded to military personnel involved in the campaign.
Condition:
Medal shows honest age wear. Ribbon with visible use and minor fraying. Overall good collectible condition.
Medal 2
Afghanistan – Revolution 10th Anniversary Medal
Diameter: approx. 32.02 mm
Material: Gilt metal
Ribbon: Green ribbon
Obverse:
Torch surrounded by stylized rays — symbol of revolution and socialism.
Reverse:
Arabic/Persian inscription:
“دهمین سالگرد انقلاب”
Translation: “10th Anniversary of the Revolution”
Historical Note:
Issued to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Saur Revolution (1978), which brought the People’s Democratic Party of Afghanistan to power. These medals were awarded during the Soviet-aligned period of Afghan history.
Condition:
Good condition with light surface wear. Ribbon intact; reverse mounting plate present.
Historical and Collectible Significance
This set represents two Cold War–era conflicts from very different regions:
Horn of Africa (Somalia–Ethiopia conflict)
Central Asia (Afghanistan under Soviet influence)
An interesting pairing for collectors of:
Cold War militaria
African & Middle Eastern medals
Campaign and commemorative awards
Summary
Original set of two international military medals from Somalia and Afghanistan, dating from the 1960s–1980s. Both medals are complete with original ribbons and show period-correct wear. A solid and uncommon grouping for collectors of global militaria.