Brass, enamels; 51.9 x 41.2 mm. Same as the more common Excellent Border Guard badge of the period, but with Cyrillic letters "MVD" in the shield at the bottom. Variation with single-piece construction and counter-relief to the entire reverse including the "MVD" plaque. The MVD version of the Excellent Border Guard badge was issued during a brief period when Border Guards were under the command of MVD (Ministry of Interior) rather than State Security.

In very fine condition, far better than the average for this scarce version of the badge. There are two chips to the red star at the top, not very conspicuous or detractive. The green enamel is unusually well preserved having only very light rubbing at the top border and none of the usual chips or flaking. Both the green and red enamels elsewhere have only occasional microscopic contact marks and still retain extremely attractive tone and luster. There is minor wear to the raised points of the center medallion, and its silver finish is mostly gone with only traces visible in recessed areas. Most details of the artwork are nevertheless nicely preserved.

The original fire gilt is still visible in the recessed areas of the reverse despite some oxidation. The screw post if full length, nearly 11 mm measured from the reverse of the badge. Original Pobeda Factory screw plate is included.

/See Mikhail Rogov, History of Awards and Insignia of Russian MVD, 1802 - 2002 , p. 89, fig. 1.2.2.17/.