Silver gilt, enamels. Measures 38.6 mm in height, 27.9 mm in width; weights 22.4 g without the screw plate. Riveted multi-piece construction (each letter in the “CCCP” is attached by copper pins). The serial number is engraved in very large numerals, in the manner characteristic of the Type 1 Var. 2.

In excellent condition, nearly unheard of for the “Small” Type 1 Badge of Honor. The enamel in particular is exceptionally well-preserved: it is completely free of any wear visible to the naked eye, shows a magnificent luster, and has only a few microscopic contact marks and flakes that are invisible without magnification. The letters “CCCP” are original, have much of their original gilt still present, and are tightly attached by the original pins. The raised details of the male and female workers are nicely preserved and crisp, nearly pristine.

The reverse is likewise practically pristine, exhibiting a beautiful patina to silver. The screw post is well over 11 mm long, and has not been shortened. Included is the original 17.6 mm wide silver screw plate with Mondvor logo, weighing 2.0 g, a unique type used only on the Type 1 “Small” Badge of Honor.

The order comes with a McDaniel certificate of authentication from November 1999 that gives it a practically unprecedented 9 out of 10 condition rating. Based on our own experience, we agree that this superb and rare piece is nearly impossible to upgrade condition-wise.

The “Small” version of the Badge of Honor is among the rarest Soviet awards: only about 1500 were ever produced, and many were replaced later with the more “modern” full-size types. Another major factor contributing to its rarity is the fact that a sizable percentage of the issues were to top party officials and NKVD officers. At the time, they were prime candidates for extermination in the next wave of Stalin’s purges – which meant that their orders would have been confiscated and melted down for scrap.

Please note, the “regular size” (Type 2) Order of the Badge of Honor in our last photo is there for size comparison and is not included with the purchase of the Type 1.