Nickel silver, gilt; measures 55.9 mm in height (incl. eyelet), 54.2 mm in width, weighs 18.5 g without the suspension and connecting link. Features the early version of the state emblem of the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan, with the book. The reverse shows stamped Dari character "1" for the first class. This rare first version of the order was made prior to the 1987 change to adopt the new Afghan state emblem.

In excellent condition. The gilt finish is extremely well preserved and bright having only minimal traces of wear, no blemishes or oxidation spots. The raised details of the center medallion are pristine and crisp. Comes on original two-layer suspension with well-preserved old ribbon.

The order was established in 1980. Awarded for valor on the battlefield, mostly to Afghans, although few are known to have been issued to Russian advisers and other foreigners. The award was sequential: one had to be awarded with the third class of this order to become eligible to the second class. Similarly, the second class was a prerequisite for the fist class. This requirement and the overall style of decoration make it very similar to the Soviet Order of Glory. This also explains the extreme rarity of the 1st class and especially of its first version.