Silver gilt, enamel; measures 51.2 mm in height (incl. eyelet), 32.5 mm in width; weighs 32.2 g not including the suspension and connecting link. This very rare first version of the order features a straight raised line under the serial number- as opposed to the more common version with the underline having a distinct bent upward on its right side (unlike the serial number itself, the underline is a part of the die, not engraved). The last character "P" in the "CCCP" has a more rounded, less elongated upper part, which is an exclusive feature of the Moscow Mint manufacture. <

Silver gilt, enamel; measures 51.2 mm in height (incl. eyelet), 32.5 mm in width; weighs 32.2 g not including the suspension and connecting link. This very rare first version of the order features a straight raised line under the serial number- as opposed to the more common version with the underline having a distinct bent upward on its right side (unlike the serial number itself, the underline is a part of the die, not engraved). The last character "P" in the "CCCP" has a more rounded, less elongated upper part, which is an exclusive feature of the Moscow Mint manufacture.

In excellent, near mint condition. The enamel is completely flawless; in particular, there is no flaking or imperfection at the upper tip of the star observed on the majority of the Orders of Honor or late-issue Badges of Honor. The raised artwork is likewise essentially pristine, having only a couple of microscopic contact marks that are invisible to the naked eye and not immediately obvious even under a 10x loupe.

Comes on original two-layer suspension device with clean old ribbon. The connecting link appears to be original; its ends are still joined with solder in a seamless manner characteristic of the Soviet Mint.

The Order of Honor was established in 1988 as a replacement for the Order of Badge of Honor. It was discontinued just three years later with the collapse of the Soviet Union. During its brief existence, only some 10,000 were awarded according to the most up-to-date estimates, a very small number by Soviet standards.
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