Badge "Hero Of The Capture Of Tbilisi 1921".

[Chuck In Oregon]

This is likely the rarest badge I will ever own. It was awarded to the senior commanders of the Red Army that captured Tbilisi (known as Tiflis back then) in 1921. This particular example was awarded to the army commander, M. Velikanov, who was in overall charge of the campaign.

Three colors of enamel, eleven pieces plus the screw post and screw plate, four rivets, solid silver except for the solid gold hammer and plow and the gold star underneath the enamel that itself sits on a silver base. No hallmarks. Undoubtedly locally manufactured (Tbilisi has been an art and jewelry center for centuries), this badge is said to have been awarded to perhaps five commanders. However, I cannot confirm that.

The inscription on the front is "Hero of the Capture of Tiflis". Ingraved on the back is T(ovarich) M. Velikanov, RVC (Revolutionary Military Soviet) XI Army.

This is not only a beautiful and rare piece, but it is also one with real historic significance.

Enjoy.