"50" Soviet Pin - What is this?

[John F.]

Here is an interesting pin I found at an antique mall. It is an exact replica of the Order of Lenin minus the relief of Vladimir’s head, which is, replace with the number 50. I am assuming that this is some sort of commemorative pin celebrating 50yrs of communist rule or something to that affect. It is a small pin measuring in at approximately 16 mm, but despite its small size it has some weight (4.2 grms), which leads me to believe that it is made out of gold or silver. However the price I paid for it doesn’t suggests that it is gold. It also has some very nice detailing and enamel work, and is marked on the back but it is to small for me to decipher even with a magnifying glass.

[John F.]

Here is a pic of the back with the mint mark

[NavyFCO]

This was a badge awarded to those people who had been members of the Communist Party for 50 years. Quite a distinguished accomplishment back in "the day"!

Dave

[NavyFCO]

Here's one with document awarded in 1981...

[historyguy]

Awww Dave, you beat me too it!!!

I'll just add as for value, CollectRussia (a fellow forum member) has one for $20.00 (listed as "sterling silver") and a cased example for $28.00.

[John F.]

CollectRussia (a fellow forum member) has one for $20.00 (listed as "sterling silver").

Gentlemen:

Thank you for your responses! "Sterling silver" that would explaine the weight issue.

[Tribley]

I just received one of these 50 year membership badges as partial payment for helping a friend -- can anyone tell me the reason for the ring around the mint mark on the badge currently pictured on CollectRussia and the lack of a ring on mine and John's?

-Jordan

Reverse of the CollectRussia badge:


The reverse of my badge:

[Tribley]

Photo of the obverse:

[Tribley]

Badge in its case, the foam is deteriorating:

[desantnik]

The Collect Russia one is a trademark from a firm in Kiev.