Type I. Instituted in 1960. In bronze gilt with red enamels, obverse inscribed "HUY CHƯƠNG HUU NGHI!" backed by a fortress wall, with a cog wheel below and framed by wheat sheaves, with the Democratic Republic of Vietnam flag above, reverse impressed with the acronym "V.N.D.C.C.H." (Việt Nam Dân chủ Cộng hòa = Democratic Republic of Vietnam) and numbered "4011", measuring 32.2 mm (w) x 38.5 mm (h), scattered gilt wear, spotting, original ribbon, mounted to a five-sided metal suspension with pinback, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, red simulated silk exterior, white recessed medal bed, wear evident in the fabric overlying the hinged area, case very fine.
Footnote: The Friendship Decoration was established on June 20, 1960 and was awarded in a single class to foreign recipients, who have aided the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in defense and reconstruction.

