Excellent Reconnaissance Scout Badge, MPS Factory, circa late 1940s.
Brass, enamels. Measures 46.2 x 38.4 mm; weighs 20.6 g without the screw plate. This is a very scarce early-post war version by the MPS factory (former NKPS). It features six scrolls in the top ornament with a well-defined upper border, domed center medallion, and a far narrower lower part of the shield compared with the earlier NKPS issues. This version is missing in the Airapetyan's reference guide but is shown in Khlamkin's catalog Badges of Excellent Servicemen of the Red Army, 1942-1957, where it is classified as "Type 5" and given the highest rarity rating, 5 out of 5.
In outstanding, excellent condition. The enamel is nearly perfect; the only trace of wear is a minuscule surface flake to the white band at approx. 7 o'clock, nearly unnoticeable to the naked eye. The enamel is otherwise pristine, free of rubbing, and shows a magnificent luster. The details of the wreath, sword, submachine gun and binoculars are likewise pristine. The grey finish along the edge of the shield is completely intact; the gilt finish is extremely bright on both sides. The screw post is full length, well over 13.5 mm, and includes an appropriate MPS-marked screw plate which is roughly of the period and fits perfectly, although not necessarily original to this particular badge.
Item# 43697
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