A rare gold coin of 7 rubles 50 kopecks, dated 1897, minted during the reign of the last Emperor of All Russia — Nicholas II. The obverse bears a right-facing profile portrait of the monarch with the legend around the rim: “Б.М. НИКОЛАЙ II ИМПЕРАТОРЪ И САМОДЕРЖЕЦЪ ВСЕРОСС.” The reverse features the imperial coat of arms of Russia — the double-headed eagle with regalia and shield-bearing wings, accompanied by the inscription: “7 РУБЛЕЙ 50 КОП. 1897 Г.” Minted in gold, the coin weighs 6 grams and measures 21 mm in diameter.Its sharp strike and the preserved clarity of both the portrait and heraldic details make it a highly desirable object for collectors and investors alike.
Dimensions:Diameter: 21 mm
Weight: 6 g
Condition:Good condition with visible signs of circulation.
Provenance:Imperial Mint of Russia, 1897.
The 7 rubles 50 kopecks coin of 1897 stands as a rare witness to the Russian Empire’s monetary reform at the turn of the 20th century. Its issuance followed the sweeping economic changes led by Minister of Finance Sergei Witte, which aimed to stabilize the national currency by adopting the gold standard. In 1897, Russia officially pegged its currency to gold, necessitating the production of new denominations, including this unusual 7.5 ruble coin.This denomination matched the ducat weight standard and was minted only for one year, rendering it a rarity. The obverse features a lifelike image of the young Nicholas II, reflecting both dignity and imperial poise. The reverse displays the imperial double-headed eagle — a powerful emblem of state sovereignty and unity on the eve of the century’s turbulence.Withdrawn soon after in favor of more practical 5- and 10-ruble coins, this issue was never widely circulated. Its short-lived production, coupled with exceptional historic and symbolic significance, ensures its status as a valuable piece for numismatists and a tangible artifact of Russia’s late imperial economy and heraldic tradition.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
