Vintage 1983 USSR Soviet Fish 28 Matchbox Collector Set

Wonderful complete 1983 Soviet USSR souvenir matchbox set titled “Речные и озёрные рыбы” (River and Lake Fish).  Produced by the Balabanovo Experimental Factory in the Kaluga region of the Soviet Union, this presentation set contains 28 individual illustrated matchboxes, each depicting and identifying a different species of freshwater fish.  The individual boxes retain their original colorful fish illustrations and Russian names, and the boxes contain vintage matches.  The inside cover bears a Soviet-era conservation message translated approximately as:  “Citizens of the USSR are obliged to protect nature and safeguard its riches. From the Constitution of the USSR.”  Artists credited on the original packaging are A. Smirnov and Z. Sankova.  Details:  * Country: USSR / Soviet Union * Year: 1983 * Maker: Balabanovo Experimental Factory, Kaluga Region * Title: River and Lake Fish * Original Russian title: Речные и озёрные рыбы * Complete set of 28 illustrated matchboxes * Original presentation box/folder * Original matches remain in the boxes * Approx. 11.4” × 9.1” × 0.8” * Original Soviet retail price printed on package: 90 kopeks  Condition: Very good vintage condition for its age. The outer presentation case shows normal age-related toning, edge/corner wear, creasing and handling wear. Interior illustrations remain colorful and attractive. Please review all photographs carefully as they are part of the condition description.