The medal "For defense of Stalingrad" was stablished on 22 December 1942. It was awarded to all servicemen of the Soviet Army, Navy, Ministry of Internal Affairs, and civilians who took part in the defense of Stalingrad. The defense of Stalingrad was from 12 July 1942 until 19 November 1942 as the 6th German Army began the offensive towards Stalingrad in 1942. Heroic defenders fought for more than 140 days under increasing enemy numbers. On 19 November 1942, the Soviet Army launched a counter-offensive, surrounding and defeating the entire 6th German Army. Stalingrad was awarded the Title of "Hero City" on 1 May 1945, and is one of only four "Hero Cities" in the USSR (the others being Sevastopol, Leningrad, and Odessa.) The medal is made from brass. Approximately 760,000 were issued.

The award is in very good condition and is a variation 1. The medal is made of brass and has a brass suspension.