Russia, Soviet Union. An Order Of The Red Banner, Second Award, Type Iii, Variation Iii

(Орден Красного Знамени). Instituted in 1918. In silver with red and white enamels, second award as defined by the number "2" at the base, mint marked "МОНЕТНЫЙ ДВОР" (Monetny Dvor) and number engraved "9209" on the reverse, measuring 37.5 mm (w) x 45 mm (h) inclusive of its integral ring, intact enamels, original ribbon, mounted to a five-sided magnetic metal suspension with pinback, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Red Banner was established on September 16, 1918 during the Russian Civil War, by decree of the All-Russian Central Executive Committee. It was the highest award of Soviet Russia, subsequently the Soviet Union, until the Order of Lenin was established in 1930. Recipients were recognized for extraordinary heroism, dedication, and courage demonstrated on the battlefield. The Order was awarded to individuals as well as to military units, cities, ships, political and social organizations, and state enterprises. In later years, it was also awarded on the twentieth and again on the thirtieth anniversary of military, police, or state security service without requiring participation in combat (the "Long Service Award" variant). The serial number of "9209" on this Type III Second Award falls within a range of "3822" and "18385" of known observed serial numbers.