In folio format measuring 8 ¼" x 11" when closed. This document was originally enclosed in a hard folder. Both pages feature an embossed image of the state emblem of Estonian SSR. The typewritten text of the certificate is the Decree of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Estonia, Presidium of the Supreme Council of Estonian SSR, and the Council of Ministers of Estonian SSR, issued in Tallinn. It bestows its transferrable award red banner to Military Unit number [redacted] on [redacted date]. The names of the military unit commander and chief of the political department are also redacted. The document is signed by the Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Estonia, Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Council, and Chairman of the Council of Ministers.

In excellent condition, showing no visible wear to the paper.

Of special interest is the manner the document was redacted. Anyone who was a school student in the Soviet Union would recognize it immediately, because everybody did the same with mistakes they needed to "disappear": you take a Soviet-made safety razor blade, bend it between your thumb and index finger, and carefully shave the ink off the top layer of the paper. The challenge was not to shave through and make a hole. Evidently, the redactor of this award document either did not have a lot of experience with this method, or had issues with fine-motor coordination.

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