Russia, Soviet Union. A Rare Graduation Badge of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Diplomatic Corps Academy, by the Moscow Mint

Constructed of gilded brass with multi-coloured enamels, the obverse consisting of a red enameled shield bearing a central gilt inscription of “ДИПЛОМАТИЧЕСКАЯ АКАДЕМИЯ МИД СССР” (“DIPLOMATIC ACADEMY OF THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS USSR”), situated above gilded academic palms and topped by a gilded Soviet coat of arms, the reverse with a horizontal pinback, maker marked with the logo of the State Mint in Moscow, measuring 24 mm (w) x 33 mm (h), in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: Established in 1974 and highly selective, the Diplomatic Corps Academy generally reserved entry to the children of high-ranking Communist Party functionaries, with graduates often attached to the GRU and KGB for carrying out espionage operations in western countries.