Russian Federation Breast Badges for Excellence

[TacHel]

Those of you that collect Soviet breast badges might be happy (or not) to learn that the various badges for excellence instituted for the most part in 1942 are being once again manufactured. BUT... The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation are NOT bestowing them to deserving personnel. These are unadopted prototypes!

Below is but a small sample of available badges on the market.

Edited September 8, 2011 by TacHel

[TacHel]

I have also found variations such as these 2 below. Notice the top of the badge which is similar to the old Soviet design instead of bearing the flag of Russia.

Edited September 8, 2011 by TacHel

[TacHel]

Eight months later...

L to R, Excellent Marksman, Excellent Sailor, Excellent Airborne, Excellent Space Troop.

I have yet to see a single picture of Russian servicemen or women wearing these. The above model is easily found on Russian ODM auction sites, while the model with the flag mostly shows up on eBay.

Edited September 8, 2011 by TacHel

[TacHel]

These are the badges for excellence being bestowed to Russian soldiers.

These particular ones are excellent ground troop at left and excellent airman at right. There are many other models. These are for privates and NCOs.

[TacHel]

Officiers and warrant officers receive badges For Merit. They are similar but the banner is below the eagle instead of above it.

These particular ones are for airborne troops at left and for army ground troops at right.