Russia, Soviet Union. An Order of Lenin Case, c.1970

(Орден ленина). Instituted in 1930. Hardshelled design on both the lid and base, the exterior with a red pebbled covering on all sides, the lid inscribed "Орден ленина" (Order of Lenin) within an open-ended wreath in gold-coloured ink, inside lid in white satin and padded, white embroidered insert placed within the base and incorporating a recessed medal bed in forest green felt, the recessed area shaped to accommodate a short pentagon-shaped ribbon suspension, measuring 73 mm (w) x 127 mm (h) x 24 mm (d), single clasp closure, exhibiting scuffing on the exterior, along with a piece of red fabric tape on the lid, case near very fine.

Footnote: The Order of Lenin was named after the leader of the Russian October Revolution and 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; 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 twenty-five 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, various educational institutions and military units who received the said Order applied the full name of the order into their official titles.