Brass, enamels; measures 45.3 x 38.3 mm; weighs 16.7 g without the screw plate. This second, MTKh variation of the Excellent Submariner badge features domed center medallion and the ornament above the medallion is formed by five "petal-like" scrolls without a well-defined border along the top edge.

In excellent condition, exceptionally rare for a WW2 version of the Submariner badge. The red enamel both in the center and lower portion of the badge is completely free of any wear visible to the unaided eye. The white enameled band has only a couple of minuscule contact marks and a tiny flake under the letter "й", all of it nearly unnoticeable without magnification. All the enamel retains a magnificent luster and is completely free of chips, repairs or rubbing.

The details of the submarine and wreath are perfect and exceptionally crisp, exhibiting no noticeable wear even to the high points. There is very attractive even toning to the brass on both sides, no blemishes or oxidation spots. Some of the fragile original silver finish on the reverse is still visible in the central area around the screw post. The screw post has been marginally reduced for convenience, but its remaining length of over 9 mm is more than enough to ensure proper functionality. The screw post has also been re-threaded in its upper portion to accommodate an early post-war screw plate of the Pobeda Factory which now fits the screw perfectly.

The Excellent Submariner badge was established in November 1942, among the first seven badges of the "Proficiency" series. It is one of the rarest and definitely the most sought-after badge of the series. Its WW2 versions have become particularly hard to find in recent years. The piece offered here is the best example we have had in at least a decade.

/Airapetyan, Breast Badges of the Red Army, 1941-1945, p. 96, fig. 2/.