In rich burgundy velvet, 2 layers stitched together with double-sided embroidered artwork. Measures 64 x 52" excluding the fringe but including the 3-inch flagpole sleeve. The obverse features Lenin's profile portrait in the center, with "Prosecutor's Office of the city of Leningrad" above and the usual Soviet lengthy motto "Under the banner of Marxism-Leninism, under the guidance of the Communist Party - forward toward the victory of communism!" below the portrait. Of special note is the tilt of Lenin's head, highly unusual in banner artwork. Instead of the expected gaze forward into t

In rich burgundy velvet, 2 layers stitched together with double-sided embroidered artwork. Measures 64 x 52" excluding the fringe but including the 3-inch flagpole sleeve. The obverse features Lenin's profile portrait in the center, with "Prosecutor's Office of the city of Leningrad" above and the usual Soviet lengthy motto "Under the banner of Marxism-Leninism, under the guidance of the Communist Party - forward toward the victory of communism!" below the portrait. Of special note is the tilt of Lenin's head, highly unusual in banner artwork. Instead of the expected gaze forward into the bright communist future, this Lenin is smiling at something (or someone?) up in the sky (in heaven?) Very unorthodox!

The reverse features the State Emblem of the Soviet Union in the center with the abbreviation "CCCP" ("USSR") under it. The omnipresent communist slogan of world domination, "Proletarians of all countries, unite!" is soaring above the State Emblem.

Not only is this banner one-of-a-kind, but also of extremely rare type and significance. It was the official, "main" banner of the Leningrad Prosecutor's Office, issued individually, sometimes at the inception of the institution it represents but sometimes later in recognition of the status, importance, and to honor the achievements of the office. Banners like this were to be cherished, kept in a special location in the headquarters, and displayed in public only on very special occasions. They are far less common than similar-looking award banners often bestowed upon government offices, enterprises, or labor teams by various Soviet authorities.

Being the main official banner of such a major organ of Soviet law enforcement in the second most important city of the Soviet Union makes this banner stand out even among similar such banners. The Prosecutor's Office of the city of Leningrad was formed in March of 1940 when it split away from the prosecutor's office of the Leningrad Region and gained independent status. It handled not only criminal cases from petty theft to homicide, but also political cases, and thus wielded enormous power. This was especially significant in Leningrad which never lost its share of dissenters.

The banner is in excellent, outstanding condition. The velvet shows zero wear visible to the naked eye and has retained its original rich moiré sheen. The embroidery and stitched artwork are exquisitely well-made and wonderfully preserved, showing no wear, damage, or discolorations. The gold thread of the embroidery and fringe is intact and has retained its rich golden luster.

This banner probably saw the light of day no more than twice a year, at the head of the column of the prosecutor's office employees in the May 1st and November 7th demonstration processions. Now it is ready to take the proud centerstage place in a wall display of unique Soviet political memorabilia.

Please note that the yardstick in our last photo is for size reference.
$850.00  Add to cart