Brass, enamels; 44.6 x 37.1 mm; weighs 17.2 g without the screw plate. This is one of the early versions of the Mortar Man's badge. Features relatively well-defined embellishment above the shield formed by five scrolls. The 120-mm mortar is the "slim" 1941 model. Not shown in the Airapetyan's catalog but classified as "Type 6" in the Khlamkin's catalog of "Excellent" series of badges, this version is quite scarce and is rated 4 out of 5 for rarity by Khlamkin.

In very fine to excellent condition. The enamel is overall well preserved and shows magnificent luster. There is just

Brass, enamels; 44.6 x 37.1 mm; weighs 17.2 g without the screw plate. This is one of the early versions of the Mortar Man's badge. Features relatively well-defined embellishment above the shield formed by five scrolls. The 120-mm mortar is the "slim" 1941 model. Not shown in the Airapetyan's catalog but classified as "Type 6" in the Khlamkin's catalog of "Excellent" series of badges, this version is quite scarce and is rated 4 out of 5 for rarity by Khlamkin.

In very fine to excellent condition. The enamel is overall well preserved and shows magnificent luster. There is just a single shallow surface flake to the red enamel on the center medallion to the left of the tip of the sickle, nearly unnoticeable to the naked eye. There are some microscopic contact marks and tiny scuffs elsewhere but to reiterate, the overall appearance is quite nice, far better than on an average WW2 Proficiency badge.

The details of the wreath and mortar are extremely well-preserved and crisp; some of the original gilt is clearly visible in their recessed areas. A good amount of the original silver finish on the reverse is present. The screw post is full length, over 10 mm, and includes the original screw plate maker-marked "Sherb. Sht. Z-d" ("Shcherbinskiy Stamping Factory". The screw plate is slightly loose due to the worn threads bust still works reasonably well with the screw.

The Excellent Mortar Man badge was established in May 1942, one of the initial seven badges that started the "Proficiency" series.

/Similar to B. Airapetyan, Breast Badges of the Red Army, 1941-1945 p. 86 fig. 4; A. Khlamkin Red Army Breast Badges of Excellence (1942-1957), Type 8/.
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