*Soviet (USSR), Cold War Era, Field /Service Enlisted Man’s Belt – Steel Star Buckle, Webbing and Leather Construction, Complete Original Example*
A very attractive and original Soviet Army enlisted man’s field/service belt, dating from the Cold War period and retaining its classic galvanised steel buckle with the iconic five-pointed star and central hammer and sickle emblem. Unlike the polished brass parade belts more commonly encountered, this practical issue example was intended for everyday military wear, field exercises, fatigue duties, and working uniform use where durability and function were prioritised over formal appearance.
The belt is of the characteristic leather-faced construction, with a brown leather outer face and reinforced webbing backing to the reverse, combining the smarter appearance of leather with the strength and flexibility of webbing for prolonged service use. It retains its correct sliding keeper, steel fastening hook, and standard Soviet rectangular steel buckle, originally finished in a subdued khaki-grey painted coating to reduce shine in service, now largely worn back to a galvanised steel appearance on the reverse and edges. This subdued buckle required no polishing and was particularly suited to field conditions, construction battalions, and general service wear. Factory markings are present but not discernable.
Approx. Measurements – Belt length (excluding buckle): 102 cm. Width: 4.5 cm.
The plain galvanised steel buckle clearly identifies this as the practical field/service pattern rather than a parade belt, contrasting with the bright brass buckle and full polished leather dress belts used for ceremonial and barracks wear. These belts were widely issued across the Soviet Army from the post-war period through the 1970s–1980s and remain iconic examples of everyday Red Army and later Soviet military equipment.
History Note:
Soviet military belts formed an instantly recognisable part of the Red Army and later Soviet Army uniform system. While brass buckles were reserved for parade and service dress, galvanised steel buckle examples such as this were intended for routine duties, training, and operational wear. Their rugged mixed leather-and-webbing construction made them ideal for conscript service and working units, and they became one of the most familiar pieces of Soviet field equipment throughout the latter half of the 20th century.
*Condition*
Good original condition overall with honest service wear throughout. The buckle shows age wear and surface rubbing consistent with use, retaining a good clear star and hammer and sickle detail. The leather face shows wear, creasing, and age-related surface marks, while the webbing reverse remains strong and intact with expected service wear. Fittings remain secure and complete. Factory markings are not legible. A solid and very displayable original example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
