The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Decorations · Soviet orders

Order of Lenin: History, Grades and Collector’s Guide

Established 1930, by the Central Executive Committee of the USSR
Classes One
Awarded for Outstanding achievement in research, the arts, technology, the economy and defence; automatically to Heroes of the Soviet Union and of Socialist Labour
Design Portrait of Lenin in a wreath of rye ears, with a red flag and star
In the collection No pieces currently available

The Order of Lenin was the highest order of the USSR, awarded to individuals, institutions and even cities. Made of gold and platinum, it is among the most valuable Soviet decorations and one of the most strictly regulated in trade.

What Was the Order of Lenin?

The order was established in 1930 by the Central Executive Committee of the Soviet Union. It had a single class and was given for outstanding achievement in science, the arts, technology and the economy, and for tasks of vital importance to the state. Heroes of the Soviet Union and Heroes of Socialist Labour received it automatically, and foreigners could receive it for services to friendship with the USSR. Its design shows Lenin’s portrait in a gold wreath of rye ears, with a red flag bearing his name.

Who Awarded It, and Which Documents Go With It?

Awards were made by decree and recorded in the recipient’s order book. The serial number on the reverse is the key to identifying the recipient.

What Should Collectors Watch For?

  • Serial numbers on Soviet orders can be checked against the award record and the recipient’s order book; a missing or altered number is a warning sign.
  • Precious metals make copies tempting; construction and hallmarks need expert examination.
  • Screw-back and suspension types help date a piece, and must fit the award date.

Legal note. Trade in Soviet state awards is restricted in the Russian Federation, where buying and selling state decorations is a criminal offence, and export of historical items from Russia and other former Soviet states is controlled. Rules elsewhere differ; check the law in your country and in the country of origin before buying or shipping.

Collector’s Note

The Order of Lenin carries the image of the state’s founder. I describe it as the highest honour of a state whose history included both victory and mass repression.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Order of Lenin established?

In 1930.

Did the Order of Lenin have classes?

No; it had a single class.

Who received it automatically?

Heroes of the Soviet Union and Heroes of Socialist Labour.

Historical Responsibility Notice: this entry documents historical figures and artefacts of the Soviet period for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology, and it is written in memory of the victims of political repression and war.

References & Further Reading