Modern "artifacts" from the collapsed
Soviet Union

Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the West has been flooded with all sorts of odds and ends marketed as Communist Cold War era "artifacts". One Commie trinket on the market is this Red Star pin. It's 2" across; made of sterling silver with red enameling. The raised inscription reads "Workers of the World Unite". This was a knick-knack liquidated to generate some hard currency for the capitalist-wannnabes that were in charge in Russia. Similar items mass marketed in the U.S.A. have been clocks from submarines, various flags and banners, instruments from airplanes, pieces of uniforms, etc., etc. Many of these pieces end up at gun shows and flea markets at outrageous prices.

These items are fine if you want a curiosity but don't fool yourself into thinking they are scarce, rare or a good investment. Most of it is military surplus originally made in the millions and millions of units. It's generally low quality trash and not particularly old. The majority was made during the Cold War defense build up of the 1960-70s.

Order of the Red Star. Hyped by mail for $29.95-$39.95. But hurry; order now. Offer limited to first five million callers. Actual size 2".