Russia – Soviet: Order of Lenin, type 6, variation 1, in gold, platinum and enamels, with aluminium five sided suspender, the reverse numbered 343863 indicating an award in the late 1950s or early 1960s.
Condition: three scratches to the base of the reverse, otherwise Good Very Fine
The Order of Lenin named after the leader of the Russian October Revolution, was the highest decoration bestowed by the Soviet Union, and could be awarded to civilians for outstanding services rendered to the State, to members of the armed forces for exemplary service, to those who promoted friendship and cooperation between peoples and in strengthening peace, and to those with meritorious services to the Soviet state and society. From 1944 to 1957, before the institution of specific length of service medals, the Order of Lenin was also used to reward 25 years of conspicuous military service. Those who were awarded the titles “Hero of the Soviet Union and “Hero of Socialist Labour were also given the order as part of the award. It was also bestowed on cities, companies, factories, regions, military units and ships. Corporate entities, factories, various educational institutions and military units who received the said Order applied the full name of the order into their official titles. The order was established by the Central Executive Committee on April 6, 1930.
