Down with Illiteracy Society, Membership or Donation Badge commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the October Revolution, early through mid- 1927 issue.
In silver; measures 29.2 mm in height x 30.7 mm in width; weighs 2.6 g without the screw plate. This version of the badge features Lenin's portrait on the top arm of the star. The inscription on the book reads "Down with Illiteracy! In Commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of the October (Revolution)". Note the characteristically early depiction of Lenin (the later portrayals on badges and medals typically have him with an oversized forehead and much more benign facial expression.) At approx. 4 o'clock position on the reverse, there is a stamped silver hallmark "84" with Kokoshn
In silver; measures 29.2 mm in height x 30.7 mm in width; weighs 2.6 g without the screw plate. This version of the badge features Lenin's portrait on the top arm of the star. The inscription on the book reads "Down with Illiteracy! In Commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of the October (Revolution)". Note the characteristically early depiction of Lenin (the later portrayals on badges and medals typically have him with an oversized forehead and much more benign facial expression.) At approx. 4 o'clock position on the reverse, there is a stamped silver hallmark "84" with Kokoshnik and a Greek character "χ" (Khi) identifying the Don assay inspection. Interestingly, the old Imperial "Kokoshnik" hallmarks were replaced in June 1927 with the new, Soviet-style hallmarks showing a worker's head and a hammer. The badge was thus produced no later than the summer of that year.
In excellent condition. The raised details show practically no wear. The screw post is original and full length, over 8.5 mm. Comes with a period screw plate which fits perfectly, although it is not original to this particular badge.
The society was organized in September 1923 at Lenin's personal initiative. In 1937, it was dissolved, obviously in a declaration that its goal of educating the masses had been largely accomplished.
/ Avers 8, p. 339, fig. 1657a; similar to Badges of Volunteer Societies of the USSR p. 293, fig. 12.6 - note that the latter book shows only the steel version of the same badge/
Please note, the penny in our photo is for size reference.
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