08-08-2010, 09:45 PM (This post was last modified: 08-21-2010, 12:28 PM by Greg Collins.)
Thought I'd begin a thread on these lovely things and invite all to contribute what they have.
This particular academy badge is the only one I have to date (more on the way). It's a post '71 (new seal) G. Dimitrov Artillery Academy graduate badge. Interesting thing here is that I believe it's silver- perhaps a transitional variant? Most of the gilt has come off except for an area in the back. Very heavy.
"We are Marching for the Victory of Communist Labour" V.I. Ulyanov (Lenin)
These next three badges are all post '71 brass badges from three different academies. As they look virtually the same from the back as the Dimitrov badge, I've chosen not to show that aspect with these. The first is a G.S. Rakovski Defense and Staff College badge, followed by a V. Levski Infantry Academy badge, and finally, for now, a G. Benkovski Air Force Academy badge.
"We are Marching for the Victory of Communist Labour" V.I. Ulyanov (Lenin)
I am a great fan of Bulgarian medals and badges because when I started they were cheap and there were not many copies about.I have a good selection of academy badges but still looking the green one which I think was for the forestry service.Never seen one anywhere at any price.
When I have sorted the chaotic building site I am living in I will post pictures of my modest collction.
I've never seen the green badge either and I have certainly seen a good few Bulgarian items. I think I have these three Badges and a late communist period Rakovski Academy medal like badge and also all three more recent Rakovski Academy Badges the one with the Lion on the front and both silver and gold coat of arms. I am thinking of mounting them along with the Order Of Loyal Service Under The Banner 1-4 and some other more modern Bulgarian items. I do love the Bulgarian stuff. There used to be lots of it on the market nice and cheap until I bought it up.
Next, two post '71 badges from the Interior Ministry. First, a Police Academy badge. Gilded brass construction with very little, if any, wear suggest this to be "new old stock" (never issued). These are readily available at reasonable prices.
"We are Marching for the Victory of Communist Labour" V.I. Ulyanov (Lenin)
This next badge was obviously issued and is well worn. It's a State Security Academy badge. The gilt has worn off in several areas exposing, apparently, silver beneath. These are difficult to find.
"We are Marching for the Victory of Communist Labour" V.I. Ulyanov (Lenin)
