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Among the numismatic rarities of Tsarist Russia, the 1898 commemorative coin holds a special place. Its issue was dedicated to a significant event—the unveiling of the monument to Emperor Alexander II. This coin, minted in St. Petersburg, is not just a monetary token but a piece of history.
Among the numismatic rarities of Tsarist Russia, the 1898 commemorative coin holds a special place. Its issue was dedicated to a significant event—the unveiling of the monument to Emperor Alexander II. This coin, minted in St. Petersburg, is not just a monetary token but a piece of history.
Along with the coins, commemorative medals were also produced. Neither the coins nor the medals were intended for wide circulation. They were distributed to participants of the solemn unveiling ceremony, which from the outset determined their small mintage and high collectible value.
Today, original examples of this coin are found very infrequently, even in the collections of experienced numismatists. Due to its rarity and historical significance, it has become a target for numerous copies and forgeries, so it is important to know the distinguishing features of an authentic piece.
| Specification | Value |
| Year of issue | 1898 |
| Mint location | St. Petersburg |
| Total weight | 20 g |
| Silver fineness | 900 |
| Pure silver weight | 18 g |
The obverse (front side) of the coin features a profile of Emperor Alexander II. Surrounding the portrait is an inscription with his title, as well as his birth and death dates. Alexander II, known for his reforms, died in a terrorist act—he was killed by a bomb.
The reverse (back side) depicts the monument to Alexander II in detail. Below is the denomination 'РУБЛЬ' (RUBLE) and the inscription 'ВЪ КРЕМЛѢ МОСКОВСКОМЪ' (IN THE MOSCOW KREMLIN). The Gurt (edge) of the coin has a standard inscription, similar to that minted on rubles during the reign of Nicholas II. Despite its age, many surviving examples still retain their mint luster.
The coin is dedicated to a monument whose history is closely linked with three generations of Russian emperors. This monument was erected in the Moscow Kremlin, as evidenced by the corresponding inscription on the coin's reverse.
Unfortunately, the fate of the monument itself was tragic. After the Great October Socialist Revolution, the monument was demolished, and today, only historical documents and the image on this rare coin recall its former grandeur.
This coin was never in circulation. Almost all examples went into numismatists' collections immediately after their issue, even in Tsarist times, which accounts for their good preservation and high rarity today.
The value of the 1898 ruble depends directly on its condition. Because the coin is very rare, its prices are quite high. When appraising it, it is important to pay attention to the preservation of the relief, the presence of luster, and the absence of mechanical damage.
