The Order of the October Revolution (Орден Октябрьской Революции) was established on October 31, 1967, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution (1917–1967). It was awarded to individuals, military units, and organizations for exceptional contributions to communism, socialist development, and the defense of the Soviet Union.
This particular example is serially numbered "2877", making it a very early issue, which significantly enhances its historical and collectible value.
Specifications
Material: Silver with red enamel; hammer and sickle in silver gilt.
Construction: Three-piece design, with separately applied elements for depth and detail.
Dimensions:
Height: 44.14 mm
Width: 43.60 mm
Markings:
Reverse Inscription: Engraved with the serial number "2877", indicating an early production piece.
Mint Mark: "МОНЕТНЫЙ ДВОР" (Monetny Dvor - Moscow Mint).
Suspension:
Mounted on a five-sided aluminum suspension with a pinback for uniform wear.
Condition:
Intact enamels, minor wear due to handling.
Damage noted: The hammer and sickle insignia is missing from the front, which reduces its collector's value but still retains historical significance.
Design Features
Red Enamel Star:
Represents revolutionary ideals and communist principles.
Hammer and Sickle (missing on this example):
The universal symbol of communism, signifying the unity of workers and peasants.
Aurora Cruiser:
Depiction of the cruiser Aurora, which fired the first shot of the October Revolution in 1917, symbolizing the beginning of Soviet power.
Radiating Silver Rays:
Encircle the red star, signifying the expansion of socialism worldwide.
Reverse Inscription:
Serial number 2877, placing this medal among early production pieces, highly desirable among collectors.
Historical Significance
Commemoration of the October Revolution
The October Revolution (7 November 1917, New Style) marked the Bolsheviks' rise to power, leading to the establishment of the Soviet Union.
This order was created for the 50th anniversary (1917-1967) of the revolution.
Award Criteria
Given for exceptional service to communism, socialism, or the defense of the USSR.
Recipients included military personnel, scientists, industrial workers, and political figures.
Also awarded to entire cities, factories, and institutions that contributed to Soviet achievements.
Notable Recipients
Soviet leaders, high-ranking military officers, and large collective organizations.
Over 106,000 awards were issued from 1967 to 1991.
The Order of the October Revolution remains one of the most historically significant Soviet decorations, symbolizing communist ideals, military strength, and industrial progress. Despite the missing hammer and sickle, this particular example is notable for its low serial number (2877), making it a valuable artifact from the early period of issuance. While the damage affects collectibility, it still holds historical value for researchers and enthusiasts of Soviet military history.