Russia (USSR) Badge of The Order of Glory 2nd class later gilded (originally 3rd Class) ND

35.43g. Sold as seen. 

Order of Glory, attributed as 2nd Class; central medallion gilding applied at a later date (base type corresponds to the original 3rd Class type). 

The Order of Glory was instituted by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR on 8 November 1943, simultaneously with the Order of Victory. It was the last “ground forces” combat order established during the Second World War and was intended exclusively for enlisted men and NCOs of the Red Army, as well as junior lieutenants in aviation, for personal acts of bravery, courage, and fearlessness in battle. 

The Order of Glory was awarded in three classes (III, II, and I), strictly in ascending order. This system deliberately echoed the Imperial Russian Order of St. George, a connection further emphasized by the black-and-orange ribbon. Until 1974, it remained the only Soviet order awarded solely for individual merit and never to military units or institutions. 

A distinctive feature of the Order of Glory was that recipients of all three classes were entitled to automatic promotion in rank. Full Cavaliers of the Order of Glory enjoyed a status comparable to that of Heroes of the Soviet Union. The order stands as a unique symbol of the personal valor and frontline heroism of the Soviet soldier during the Great Patriotic War.