Brass, enamels; measures 45.2 x 36.4 mm; weighs 13.9 g without the screw plate. This very scarce version of the badge was manufactured from 1950-1953 by the MTKh (Moscow Artists Cooperative) workshop. It features two oval-shaped handles of the machine-gun and straight edges of its shield; the scrolls in the ornament on the top of the shield are sharply defined and form a downward pointing triangle in the middle. This is the so-called First Unified type according to the Airapetyan classification. Unlike some other, more common versions of the post-war MTKh production, this piece

Brass, enamels; measures 45.2 x 36.4 mm; weighs 13.9 g without the screw plate. This very scarce version of the badge was manufactured from 1950-1953 by the MTKh (Moscow Artists Cooperative) workshop. It features two oval-shaped handles of the machine-gun and straight edges of its shield; the scrolls in the ornament on the top of the shield are sharply defined and form a downward pointing triangle in the middle. This is the so-called First Unified type according to the Airapetyan classification. Unlike some other, more common versions of the post-war MTKh production, this piece has a very distinct font of the inscription: more angular, taller and narrower than the others (the difference is particularly noticeable in the first letter П of the second word of the inscription). This particular version of the badge is not shown in the Airpatetyan's reference guide, but is featured in the catalog by Khlamkin where it is referred to as Type 19 with the rarity rating of 5 out of 5.

In outstanding, excellent condition. The enamel is essentially perfect, free of any wear visible to the naked eye and retaining a beautiful luster. The details of the wreath and machine-gun are pristine. A good amount of the original gilt is still visible in the recessed areas on the obverse; even more of it remains on the reverse, especially around the screw post. The fragile gray finish along the edge of the shield is extremely well preserved - an uncommon case. The screw post is full length, well over 11.5 mm. The screw plate marked "MTKh Enamel Factory" is of the period and correct for this version of the badge, although judging by its patina, it may not be original to this particular specimen. Overall, a superb example of a very rare version of the Machine-Gunner badge.

/Similar to (but not the same as) p. 85, fig. 9 in the Breast Badges of the Red Army, 1941- 1945 by Airapteyan/.
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