Description
Order of the Patriotic War 2nd class #180730
Scarce Moscow “Platinapribor” (MZPP) variation without mint mark
Awarded to Lieutenant Ivan Leontievich Platitsin (Иван Леонтьевич Платицин)
For suppressing two German 105 mm batteries, one through precise artillery strikes and the other with the help of aerial reconnaissance. Later, when the enemy counterattacked with tanks and self-propelled guns, Plotitsin detected the armor in time and launched an intense artillery barrage, destroying a tank, eliminating enemy troops, and forcing the remaining forces to retreat, halting further attacks
Moscow “Platinapribor” (MZPP) variation. Made of solid silver, gold and enamels. The order weighs 28.2 grams without its screwplate and measures 44.31 mm in width and 46.80 mm in height. Its serial number can be found on the bottom of its reverse. Note this piece has NO mint mark. The minimal known serial number of this variation is 180565 and the maximum number is 182815.
In nice condition with its details crisp and a nice even patina to the silver on both sides. The enamels are without repairs but show several dings and scratches. Its reverse is in great condition and shows few traces of wear. The order comes with a well fitted war time screwplate and its screw has not been shortened.
Brief and specific description of the personal feat or merits:
In the battle on 06 November 1944 near Kokmuiža – hill 115.4, two German 105mm batteries (2 guns each) delivered intensive fire at our attacking infantry and the sector of observation of our 1st artillery battery. Conducting vigilant observation of the battlefield under enemy fire, officer PLOTITSIN spotted one of the enemy batteries and suppressed with precise artillery strike. The other enemy battery was suppressed by Lt. PLOTITSIN guns with the help of aerial reconnaissance.
In the battle on 12 November 1944 in the same sector, the enemy received tanks and SPG reinforcement. Utilising these reinforcements, the enemy counterattacked again our positions. Lt. PLOTITSIN observation point detected enemy armour concentration in proper time. Lt. PLOTITSIN conducted intensive and precise artillery barrage against the German armour carrying infantry on them. Lt. PLOTITSIN battery fire, hit 1 tank and eliminated several enemy troops forcing the other tank to retreat hastily. Having sustained losses in armour and troops, the enemy seized further attacks.
The full translation of the research can be read below:
More information on Lt. Platitsin can be found here
Also included in the picture gallery is the combat report 76th artillery brigade on 06 November 1944 and a map of Kokmuiža which is mentioned in the citation
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