Official Commemorative Medal for the 12th World Festival of Youth and Students, Moscow 1985
Decorative art, specifically a commemorative medal/souvenir in a plastic display case. • Commissioned by the Soviet organizing committee (Komsomol); likely produced by a state-owned mint such as the Moscow Mint (Goznak).
Style & Movement
Late Soviet Socialist Realism / Soviet Modernism with folk-art influences.
Medium & Technique
Cold-painted or enameled metal (likely a copper-nickel or zinc alloy with gold-tone plating). The technique involves die-striking with recessed areas filled with colored enamel/lacquer and a stylized sunray guilloché pattern in the background.
Creation Period
1985
Dimensions & Format
Medal diameter: approximately 50-60mm; Case: approximately 80x80mm. Circular format housed in a square plastic tray.
Subject Description
The medal depicts the 'Katyusha' mascot, designed by Vyacheslav Yermakov. She is a stylized young Soviet girl in traditional dress holding a dove of peace. Her head is framed by a five-petaled flower representing the five continents. The inscription 'XII - МОСКВА - 85' denotes the 12th World Festival held in Moscow.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The enamel appears intact without significant chipping. The gold-tone plating shows minor oxidation or surface dulling consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $50.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$15.00 - $40.00 USD
Provenance History
Mass-produced souvenir for participants and guests of the 1985 festival. Generally acquired through Soviet state gift shops or as part of official delegate kits.
Art Historical Significance
A significant piece of Cold War era cultural ephemera. The 1985 festival was a major 'soft power' event for the USSR under Gorbachev, intended to project an image of openness and international friendship just before the era of Perestroika.
Notable Features
Includes the iconic 'Katyusha' doll mascot, which was the female counterpart to the 1980 Olympic Misha bear. The textured 'sunburst' radial lines in the gold background are typical of high-quality Soviet commemorative minting.
Condition Issues
Minor surface scratches on the metal; light scuffing on the original white plastic base/case. Minimal fading to the red enamel.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a dry, UV-protected environment to prevent further oxidation of the metal or fading of the enamel. Do not use abrasive cleaners.