For the Victory over Germany

Some 14.9 million were issued to soldiers and officers since 9 May 1945 (immediateltely after the war some 13.66 million awarded).  Medals issued before 5 February 1951 had to be returned upon death of the holder. There are four variations distinguished by their ring.
Variation 1 that had a soldered ring and hanger from a heavy metal with two layers (awarded 1945-46). Sub-variation 2 is distinguished by the amount of space on the reverse between the letter "E" in the word "VOJNE" and the surrounding circular text (the sub-variation 1 has less space).
Subsequent variations had the ring as part of the medal. Variation 2 had one layer heavy suspension and was issued 1946-48. On variation 3 the ring was flat (also 1946-48) and variation 4 had a round ring that differed in thickness Also the position of the ring above the circular text (between the letters "e" & "l", above "l" and between "l" & "o") on the avers distinguishes subvariations. This is variation 5, not in any catalogue I have seen to date - so if its not a fake, due to its different silver colouring, its quite unique.
See also the "Decree" of the USSR Presidium of the Supreme Soviet that instituted the medal "For Victory over Germany".