Russia, Soviet Union. An Order of Friendship of Peoples

 (Орден Дружбы народов). Instituted 17 December 1972. (1972-1991 issue). Constructed of gilded silver with multi-coloured enamels, on loop for suspension with its period original ribbon affixed to a pentagonal backplate with horizontal pinback, the obverse consisting of a double-overlaid ribbed and pebbled starburst, bearing a central red enameled five-pointed star, in turn defaced by a white enameled disc bearing a gilded and enameled Soviet coat of arms, circumscribed by a gilt inscription of “ДРУЖБА НАРОДОВ” (“FRIENDSHIP OF PEOPLES”) and laurel leaf wreath, surrounded by a circular wreath of handshakes, joined together at the bottom by a red enameled plaque bearing gilt initials “СССР” (“USSR”), the reverse with six visible rivets securing the obverse features in position, maker marked “МОНЕТНЫЙ ДВОР” for the State Mint, engraved with an award number of “39185”, measuring 47.19 mm (w) x 51.04 mm (h), weighing 50.8 grams (inclusive of ribbon and mount), in extremely fine condition