Measures 3 ¼" x 5", printed on glossy photo paper. The verso has a handwritten inscription dedicated to the soldier's brother and written as a verse, a rather melodramatic one at that. It reads "For long-lasting memory, to my brother Vasya from Ilyusha. If we never meet again, if the fate is truly cruel, let this immobile image of me stay with you to remember me. Photo taken 15 May 1949." The poetic value of this message may be arguable, but it accurately reflects the expectations of the majority of fresh Soviet Army conscripts.

In very good to excellent condition. A short tear at the bottom edge and minor corner bumps are evident but not too intrusive. The tear can be easily repaired with tape on the verso as it does not reach the inscription. Tilting the photo to reflect a bright light reveals slight wrinkles and mild wear to the emulsion, however this wear is practically invisible when looking at the photo at a normal viewing angle. The verso is mostly clean, the writing is perfectly legible.

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