Exporting Of Items.

[Henry Sakaida]

Not to put a damper on collecting, but I no longer collect the stuff. I'm just after the stories and the medals just provided an interesting "excuse" to go on my ventures! After the Umurdinov medal return was written up in Russian, that is my passport. When I write to Soviet veterans and organizations, I always include the article, and my inquieries are always well received.
But I still get very excited when I see interesting groups! There are so many various medals and orders out there, a budding collector should specialize. When I first started collecting, I was torn between collecting the "Capture of..." medals and the Red Banners and Lenins. Then I decided to get a Type 1 and 2 Hero Star before the prices skyrocket. I'm still trying to become an expert on the Hero Star.
If you can afford it, get a Hero Star first, then there will be no more pressure since you have the top stuff. Then work down to a Lenin or the Red Banners.
Most people who go to Ukraine or Russia from here cannot afford to be detained for questioning at the airport when your plane is about to leave! Better not to pack medals if you are planning to fly...better stick to ground transportation!
I hope we are NOT encouraging anyone to engage in illicit behavior! It is not for the amateur. But it would be exciting to get away with it!