Hammer and Sickle medal. "Hero of Socialist Labour", created by decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, was established on 27 December 1938. Its badge, the "Hammer and Sickle Medal", was created on 22 May 1940. The title was awarded for heroic labour achievements which significantly increased production, "thereby promoting the national economy, science, culture, might, and glory of the USSR.