Silver gilt, enamels; measures 62.1 mm in height, 59.2 mm in width; weighs 62.2 g. Features a star counter-relief on the reverse with a sharp round depression in the middle and a horizontal pin attachment. The overall quality of this piece and especially its enamel point out that this version of the order was manufactured outside of North Korea at a location other than the Soviet Mint, believed to be in Czechoslovakia. Note the extremely low serial number, near the bottom of the currently known serial number range for its type (3835 - 8345).

In fine condition. The red enamel has a couple of chips at approx. 5 and 11 o'clock positions; additionally, there is a number of smaller surface flakes and contact marks to both the red enamel and blue enameled border. The rays of the starburst show some relatively minor dings but their ridges are crisp, free of heavy wear. There is only a minor amount of wear to the apex of the center star. The gilt finish is very well preserved throughout. The reverse is practically pristine and exhibits attractive even toning. The pin attachment is intact and fully functional.

Established in October 1948, the Order of the National Flag was the first award of the Communist North Korea and it remained its only order for nearly two years. As the new awards were added in the first days of the Korean War, the Order of National Flag kept its status as North Korea's highest decoration. It became the second highest award only in 1977, after the establishment of the Order of Kim Il Sung. The very scarce and desirable "Czechoslovak" version of this decoration is rated R3 for rarity ("rare piece, which is sometimes available but may be hard to find") in the Military and Civil Awards of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), by Sessler and McDaniel (page 110, top).