Brass gilt, "cold" enamel; 50.1 x 23.1 mm. Riveted two-piece construction, with superimposed Soviet state seal. The enamel is "cold" type, nice but of lesser quality than the standard "hot baked" enamel used by the mint. Judging by the condition and details of the badge, we believe that the enamel is original to the badge, not a replacement. Moreover, the badge itself is definitely legitimate, old factory made issue - not a fantasy piece or recent replica. "Cold" enamel or paint was occasionally used by lesser manufacturers as early as 1950s.

In excellent condition. The enamel and details of the state emblem are well preserved. Note that emblem is slightly off vertical axis which is a manufacturing flaw, not a result of external damage. A good amount of the original fire gilt finish on the emblem is still present. The screw post is full length, approx. 14 mm. The screw plate marked "USSR Artistic Fund Workshop" is of the period although possibly not original to the badge.

This very interesting and uncommon piece is not shown in "Avers 8".