Soviet Union Space Race Pin

History of the Artifact

During the Space Race, the Soviet Union produced a wide variety of propaganda pins, or 'znachki', to celebrate its achievements in space exploration and to promote national pride. These small, collectible pins were an integral part of Soviet visual culture, used to commemorate milestones such as the launch of Sputnik in 1957, Yuri Gagarin’s first human spaceflight in 1961, and the numerous Luna, Vostok, and Soyuz missions. They were often distributed at public events, schools, and workplaces, reinforcing the idea that the USSR was at the forefront of space exploration and technological progress.

Soviet space pins featured bold, futuristic designs that reflected the country’s ambitions. Many depicted spacecraft soaring into the stars, cosmonauts in helmets, and stylized portraits of key figures like Gagarin, Sergei Korolev, and Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman in space. The designs frequently incorporated hammer-and-sickle motifs, the red Soviet star, and phrases like "Glory to Soviet Cosmonauts" or "We Were the First" to emphasize Soviet superiority over the United States in space. Some pins were enamel-coated with bright colors, while others were made from aluminum or brass, keeping them lightweight and affordable for mass production.

These pins were not just decorative items; they served a broader ideological purpose. They reinforced Soviet citizens' belief in their country’s technological might and communism’s ability to achieve scientific breakthroughs. In a time when the USSR and the United States were locked in a geopolitical struggle, these small tokens played a role in shaping public perception, particularly among young people who were encouraged to pursue careers in science and engineering. Collecting these pins became a popular hobby, with some people amassing large collections that documented the entire history of Soviet space achievements.

How do I know these are original Yugoslavian Coins?

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

What will my artifact look like?

Your coin will look very similar to the ones shown in the photos. There will always be some variety, given our items are unique historical pieces. The display case included is openable so that you may easily handle and closely observe the artifact. If for whatever reason you get anything that does not fit this description you are entitled to your money back! 

Your order will include:

• One authentic Soviet Union Space Race Pin
• Elegant protective case for preservation and display of your artifact 
• Certificate of Authenticity

Ancient Artifacts relics are guaranteed authentic and have a 100% money back policy. Read more about our Mission and Promise for authenticity.