Honored Railway Employee badge, Type 1, circa 1940-41.

Silver, enamels; 45.9 x 31.9 mm. The reverse shows very poorly struck silver hallmark (totally illegible) and the maker mark "NKPS" (Narkomat of Transportation). Condition of the obverse is very fine to excellent. The red enamel shows few small surface flakes, contact marks and light buffing, but no serious damage. The white enamel and colored "lenses" of the semaphore are completely intact. The details of the locomotive are beautifully defined and have only minimal wear to the high points; the name "Stalin" on the front is fully legible. On the reverse, the serial number has been erased. The screw post has been repaired or replaced; the tin screw plate is a die-cast replica.

This badge was the highest award to railroad employees, equivalent of "Honored" titles in other fields. Like the other "honorary badges", the early version of this decoration was made in silver, whereas much more common post-1941 issues were in silver-plated or nickel-plated brass.


$350.00