Soviet Guards Badge (Znak 'Gvardiya')

This is a Soviet military excellence badge known as the 'Guards Badge', established in May 1942 to distinguish servicemen and units designated as 'Guards' for heroic battlefield performance. The badge is constructed from a brass or bronze alloy with a gold-toned finish and features vibrant cold or hot enamel work. The design consists of a flowing red banner at the top with the Cyrillic text 'ГВАРДИЯ' (Guards). Below the banner is a white enameled field containing a centered five-pointed red star. The central elements are encircled by a golden laurel wreath, symbolic of victory and glory, which terminates at the bottom at a cartouche embossed with 'СССР' (USSR). The banner is attached to a flagpole that runs diagonally through the center. Physically, the badge shows signs of age-related patina and minor wear to the gilding, particularly on the relief edges of the wreath and the banner's tassels. The red enamel on the banner appears mostly intact, though there is visible pitting and slight discoloration in the white enamel field, common in mid-to-late 20th-century production. This piece likely dates from the post-WWII era (late 1940s to 1980s) given the specific font and wreath detailing. While these were produced in millions, the quality of the strike and the preservation of the enamel contribute to its historical and collectable value.