The pommel shows the Soviet State Seal of post-1955 type, with 15 scrolls representing the republics in the Soviet Union. The throat is maker- marked "ZIK" with the 1957 date, and shows the serial number "HO1256". This very uncommon piece is from a limited 1957 series; note that the brass fittings do not have either the gilt finish or the lacquer varnish (the latter is a common feature of Soviet daggers produced after 1957). The artwork features a more realistic "slanted" Kremlin wall to show perspective as opposed to the more simplistic horizontal wall on the earlier daggers. Very attractive dark-toned Bakelite grip.

Very good to excellent overall condition. There are a couple of very minor scuffs and a few very light bumps to the scabbard leather. The factory-sharpened brilliant blade is clean and free of wear, pitting, rist spots, nicks, or scratches, having only the slightest in-and-out wear. Both the artwork and the seal of the USSR are crisp. Brass fittings have acquired very attractive matching patina over the years but stayed free of verdigris or significant blemishes. The grip is perfect, without chips or hairline cracks.

Changes in uniform regulations in 1958 made daggers virtually obsolete for both Army and Air Force officers. Afterwards, they would carry daggers only on very special occasions such as a military oath ceremony or parade. Unlike the naval officers, they usually wouldn't keep a dagger in their possession but were instead issued one just for a day or two if needed. Although limited production of daggers for the Soviet Army (land forces) resumed in the 80s, the Air Force daggers were never manufactured again after 1958.