In silver. Measures 33.3 mm in height including the eyelet; 29.1 mm in width; weighs 9.4 g. The obverse shows the Polish eagle national emblem. The reverse is inscribed "Rex Et Patria" ("The King and the Fatherland"), and the date 1831 - the year of the final annexation of Poland into the Russian Empire.

In excellent condition. There are no noticeable scratches or dings. The obverse has a minor uniform wear to the highest points of the center medallion and lettering, but the details remain nicely preserved and crisp. The reverse is nearly pristine. There are no bumps or wear to the edges or points of the arms on either side.

This traditionally Polish Order was retained by Alexander I after the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte. Initially it was an award exclusively to the citizens of the Polish Kingdom, although bestowed by the Russian administration. In a bitter twist, this particular version of the order was issued to the Russian troops that distinguished themselves in the suppression of the Polish rebellion of 1831. Unlike the other two orders Polish in origin - White Eagle and St. Stanislaus - the Order of Virtuti Militari was abolished shortly thereafter. It was restored only after WWI, when Poland for a short time re-gained its independence.

Please note, penny in our photo is for size reference.