Russia, Soviet Union. An Order of Lenin, Type 6, Variation 1

(early 1950s to 1991) In Gold and platinum with red enamels, weighing 33.6 grams, variation 1 with the Leningradskii Monetny Dvor (Leningrad) mint mark and number impressed "296616" on the reverse, measuring 38 mm (w) x 44.7 mm (h) inclusive of its integral ring suspension, intact enamels, contact marks, replacement ribbon, without aluminum frame suspension, better than very fine.

Footnote: The Order of Lenin, named after the leader of the Russian October Revolution, was established by the Central Executive Committee on April 6, 1930. The order was the highest civilian decoration bestowed by the Soviet Union. The order was awarded to: civilians for outstanding services rendered to the State, members of the armed forces for exemplary service, those who promoted friendship and cooperation between peoples and in strengthening peace, those with meritorious services to the Soviet state and society. This Type 6, Variation 1 version was produced by the Leningrad mint, with the lowest serial number observed to be 186,898 and the highest 381,416.