Hello sirs,
I hope to contribute to this board with feedback and such, but for now I am shamelessly posting my Imperial Russian General Staff Academy badge that is up for sale. If this is against protocol, I offer my humble apologies and will withdraw my post. In the case that there might be sincere interest from forum members, I am providing a link to the badge:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rare-Original-Imperial-Russian-General-Staff-Academy-Badge-Medal-/110797272756?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item19cc0836b4
Although I am confident of the badges authenticity since purchasing it nearly 17 years ago from the collection of a White Army vet in SF, I welcome discussion about its origins. I will post any pictures that are requested and if you do decide to purchase the badge, I will provide a refund if you are not satisfied. If you happen to be in the Bay Area, I'd be happy to show it along with some other Imperial Russian militaria that I have.
The Academy Badge has remarkable detail to the eagle and solid construction. The metal is not in any way pliable. Although not anywhere near as common as the regular screw-back versions, the pin-backs were produced in the 1870s and 1880s. It's rarity also means that it has not been reproduced. 100% of the fake Gen Stab badges that you find will be in the screw-back format.
I welcome your discussion about my Знак об окончании Николаевской Академии Генерального Штаба!
All the best,
Stepan
