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I started collecting in the late 1980's. The first order I obtained was from a Russian friend of my Dad's. I think it was a red star. After the break up of the Soviet Union my dad and I started heavily collecting Orders, Medals, Pins and Shoulder boards. Most of the items in my collection were obtained from the same source. In the last two or three years I have been collecting Soviet space items, mainly metal rockets made as gifts for employees. I also collect Soviet rifles and militaria.
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Started in 1993 in Geneva. They were well made, historical and cheap so I got a good selection. Did not add to them until my posting to Moscow rekindled my interest in 2005, by which time they were well made, historical and expensive !
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My first interest to Soviet awards occured in early childhood, when I used to play with my grandpa's medals. But serious attitude towards this topic had developed after I finished my University.
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I can't remember when it was, back in the early 90s I suppose.....
Back in the day I was collecting hats and naval cap tallies. It was then I got my first Soviet militaria.
But mostly I was collecting German medals. Since my budget was (and still is) quite low I branched out into DDR stuff. From there I found a dealer at a show who told where his fleamarket booth was and when I went there I got some fine DDR stuff and my first Soviet medal!
It was I think the 30th Anniversay of Victory in the GPW.
"patina imparts character" - PJS
A wise man said: 'you should not pay a premium for what you want beyond your comfort level, and always ensure there is a mutually agreeable return policy.'
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My first purchase was an Order of the Red Star and a 1985 issue OGPW.
When I received my package my wife said she really likes the OGPW so I gave it to her. She I very encouraging about my collecting. Bless her!
) was an army officer, and I guess if you grew up in a Russian officer's family it will never let you go - no matter where you live, and despite all the arguments about who was right and who was wrong throughout the Soviet history - and, boy, didn't we use to have a fight! 
