For some time now I've been trying to put together a set of the three early parachutist badges, as illustrated on page 432 of AVERS 8. Well, I finally succeeded and I just wanted to share my joy with you all with the photo below.
I have managed to amass a small collection of these badges, e.g., 2 x M1931-36, 1 x M1936.a, and 9 x M1936.b. The M1936.b badges are hallmarked with various common manufacturers' marks, such as КПМ, ЗСЗ, Pobeda, etc. However, I've recently obtained an M1936.b badge that is marked "MADE IN USSR" in incuse relief???? Was this run of badges made for export? If so, why and to where? If anyone can shed any light on this badge I would be most grateful. As always, I welcome any comments.
I am in complete agreement with Marc about the pin-back "made in Russia" badge. There is no doubt about this one as well as many other types of badges (see below). In fact, they may have been made in response to all the laws that came down about exporting historical "treasures." However, it is more likely that they were made for the throngs of Westerners who came to see "the Old Soviet Union" and wanted something to take home. If the tourist could only read English, then they were sure to believe that something was made before 1991 if it said in English "USSR" on it.:rolleyes:
I'm hardy an expert on parachutist/paratrooper badges, but I know that I think the older ones look very cool. I only hope more of the rest of your very nice looking collection are authentic.
