A must-read for medal collectors
The first comprehensive reference book on Hungarian phaleristics covering the period from 1949 to 1989
A book recommendation
Structured catalog
All awards in one place, organized
Reliable sources
Research in archives, museums, and private collections
Practical guide
A reliable reference for the collector and professional community
The most comprehensive study to date of the “government decorations” of the People’s Republic of Hungary
For decades, information regarding the decorations of the People’s Republic of Hungary was fragmented, unsupported by scholarly research, and often consisted of half-truths.
Many collectors, dealers and museum professionals found themselves without a unified, authentic source to guide them through the various designs, values and origins of these pieces.
The “Érdemek a munka menetében” (“Merits in the Course of Work”) fills this gap.
The authors – Sándor Molnár and Vencel Laczkó – have drawn upon more than fifteen years of collecting and scholarly research to create the first comprehensive, professionally grounded reference book that:
• provides a broad historical overview of the socialist-era awards system,
• objectively categorizes and presents the various types and versions of the decorations,
• and does so in an accessible, reader-friendly format.
This book offers more than just information; it provides a framework for understanding – a structured guide to avoiding pitfalls so that collecting can truly become a source of carefree enjoyment.
A book that sets the record straight and, in doing so, safeguards value.
Why is this book important?
The collector’s dilemma
“I don’t know what I’m holding.”
Often, one can only guess the origin of a particular medal, ribbon or box.
Sources are fragmented, and online forums are full of misunderstandings and inaccurate information.
Ultimately, this uncertainty leads to loss – the authenticity of the item comes into question.
The book’s solution
“Érdemek a munka menetében” brings order to the chaos.
It provides clear descriptions of every decoration, variant, ribbon and case.
The book does more than just list items; it explains them, revealing the connections, chronological changes, and underlying historical context.
This transforms collecting from a guessing game into an informed, confident decision.
The result
Knowledge that pays off.
Those who use this book will gain confidence in their collecting:
- buying and selling with a lower risk of error,
- distinguishing between originals and copies,
- understanding the structure of the system of decorations.
This book is not merely a read; it is a tool for professional development and the preservation of value.
Take a look inside – preface and table of contents
Curious about the chapters and the tone of the volume? Check out the online flipbook – you will immediately see the logic behind the book’s organization.
What the online flipbook includes: excerpts from the two main chapters – the history of the award and the typology.
About the authors
Molnár Sándor
He has been a dedicated researcher of the world of Hungarian military and state decorations for over 15 years.
A collector with a scholarly interest, he contributed to the historical foundation of the book through research based on archival sources and period documents.
“To me, every decoration is a piece of history”
– Sándor Molnár
Laczkó Vencel
He brings a modern perspective and precise methods of classification to the subject.
A collector and specialist in typology who has authored numerous publications, he contributed to the creation of the book by identifying and structuring the various types and variants of decorations.
“A decoration is not simply a medal; it is our very own cultural heritage” – Vencel Laczkó
Opinions
Császi Tamás
“Like a crime novel: exciting, full of surprises and twists—reading the historical section was a tremendous experience” – collector, Budapest
Sallay Gergely
“Thanks to this book, the history and system of decorations from that era has finally become fully transparent; I can clearly see the structure: who awarded – or could award – what, when, to whom and why” – museum curator, Budapest
FAQ
What exactly is the book titled "Merits in the Course of Work" about?
The book examines the history of the “government decorations” awarded during the era of the People’s Republic of Hungary. It presents in detail the origins and variations of these decorations, as well as the social and political processes with which they are associated.
Who is this book recommended for?
This book is addressed to anyone interested in the history or collecting of Hungarian decorations, regardless of the era. It is recommended for collectors, historians, museum professionals, educators, and any reader wishing to gain a better understanding of the past.
Is the book written in a more scholarly or an engaging style?
The book strives to be readable, engaging, full of twists and enjoyable – both in terms of content and style. At the same time, it is a scholarly work, backed by extensive research, footnotes, and a solid professional foundation.
Is it possible to read a sample of the book?
Yes. A PDF excerpt is available on this page, offering a glimpse into the book’s content, structure, and tone.
Take a look inside – see why collectors consider it an essential reference work!
Below, you can get a glimpse of the precision and professional depth that makes the book “Merits in the Course of Work” unique.
Within its pages, you will find not only precise descriptions of the awards, but also their historical context, symbolism and the story behind their creation.
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