Silver-plated and gilded brass, enamels; 26.8 x 22.6 mm; weighs 9.8 g not including the wing nut. Two-piece construction: the hammer and plow emblem is a separate superimposed part attached by wires to the enameled red shield. Note that the Soviet emblem is of the early type used before the widespread adoption of the hammer and sickle emblem in the last years of the decade. There is a raised date "1917" on the head of the hammer and "1918" on the plow. Despite its small "lapel" size, the badge exhibits the characteristically high quality of the imperial era. The enamel is particularly f

Silver-plated and gilded brass, enamels; 26.8 x 22.6 mm; weighs 9.8 g not including the wing nut. Two-piece construction: the hammer and plow emblem is a separate superimposed part attached by wires to the enameled red shield. Note that the Soviet emblem is of the early type used before the widespread adoption of the hammer and sickle emblem in the last years of the decade. There is a raised date "1917" on the head of the hammer and "1918" on the plow. Despite its small "lapel" size, the badge exhibits the characteristically high quality of the imperial era. The enamel is particularly fine and translucent, showing a starburst pattern underneath.

Very fine to excellent condition. The enamel appears practically perfect to the unaided eye and retains a beautiful luster. A careful examination reveals some hairlines in the upper right corner of the shield, but the enamel remains sound and stable. The hammer & plow emblem is perfectly preserved and crisp; a good amount the original gilt finish is clearly visible in its recessed areas. The silver finish is almost completely intact on the reverse of the badge. The wires affixing the emblem to the shield are intact and tight. The screw post is full length, nearly 12 mm; the screw plate is of the period, fits perfectly, and is very likely original to the badge.

Almost needless to say, this badge made in the first year of the Russian Civil War is exceptionally rare. As of now, we at least have not handled or seen another example. Nor is it shown in any reference book known to us, but it bears a striking similarity to the Police Badge in silver made by the venerable Eduard jewelry firm in Petrograd circa 1919. The latter is featured in the Soviet Badges, Volume 2: Law Enforcement Agencies by I. Sysolyatin (p. 59, fig. 2.53).

Please note, the penny in our photo is for size reference.
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