Vintage USSR Leningrad St Petersburg 17 Soviet Enamel Pin Badges Collection
Description:
Interesting collection of 17 vintage Soviet-era enamel and metal souvenir badges dedicated to Leningrad, now known as Saint Petersburg, Russia.
The collection features famous historical monuments, architectural landmarks, sculptures, memorials and cultural attractions of this historic Russian city.
Collection includes:
* Leningrad and Gdansk friendship commemorative badge
* University Embankment Sphinx monument
* Monument to Nikolai Chernyshevsky
* Monument to the Heroic Defenders of Leningrad
* Lenin monument on Moskovsky Prospekt
* Bronze Horseman monument depicting Peter the Great
* Peterhof Neptune Fountain, Samson sculpture badge
* Alexander Column and Palace Square
* Leningrad architectural and city souvenir badges
* Peterhof Volher (Wolher) souvenir badge
* Decorative Leningrad souvenir badge with hanging chain
* Other Soviet architectural and commemorative badges
Quantity: 17 badges
Origin: USSR (Soviet Union)
Period: Mainly 1960s–1980s Soviet era
Material: Metal, enamel and painted finishes
History of Leningrad / Saint Petersburg:
Saint Petersburg was founded in 1703 by Tsar Peter the Great on the banks of the River Neva.
The city became the capital of the Russian Empire in 1712 and developed into one of Europe’s most magnificent cities, famous for its grand palaces, canals, bridges, museums and impressive architecture.
In 1914, the city was renamed Petrograd, and in 1924 it became Leningrad in honour of Vladimir Lenin.
The Siege of Leningrad (1941–1944):
During the Second World War, Leningrad suffered one of the longest and most devastating sieges in history.
The siege lasted approximately 872 days, from September 1941 until January 1944.
Hundreds of thousands of civilians died from starvation, freezing temperatures and bombardment.
Despite these terrible conditions, the city continued to resist.
Several badges in this collection commemorate Leningrad’s wartime history, particularly the Monument to the Heroic Defenders of Leningrad.
Famous Monuments and Landmarks:
The Bronze Horseman, unveiled in 1782, is one of Saint Petersburg’s most famous monuments and depicts Peter the Great on horseback.
The Egyptian Sphinxes on University Embankment were brought to Saint Petersburg in the 19th century and remain important landmarks.
Peterhof Palace and its famous fountains were created during the reign of Peter the Great and became one of the most celebrated imperial residences in Russia.
The Samson Fountain, depicting Samson opening the jaws of a lion, is among the best-known sculptures at Peterhof.
Return to Saint Petersburg:
In 1991, following a referendum, Leningrad officially regained its historic name, Saint Petersburg.
Today, the city is internationally recognised for the Hermitage Museum, Winter Palace, Peter and Paul Fortress and its outstanding architectural heritage.
During the Soviet period, souvenir pin badges were extremely popular and were produced to commemorate cities, historical monuments, museums and important anniversaries.
This collection offers an interesting glimpse into the history, architecture and culture of Soviet Leningrad.
Condition:
Vintage used condition with age-related wear, marks and possible enamel imperfections.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
All 17 badges are sold together as one collection.
Combined Postage:
I am happy to combine postage for multiple purchases. Please contact me before payment if you would like to purchase additional items.