A gold 25 rouble coin, produced for the 30th birthday of Grand Duke Vladimir Alexandrovich in 1876, could realise $200,000 at Baldwin's sale of Russian coins in New York on January 9.
This issue is the rarest of four large gold coins released in Russia around the turn of the century. Only 100 examples were ever struck.
 The commemorative coin was produced for the birthday of Grand Duke Vladimir Alexandrovich |
Alexandrovich was commander of the military forces of St Petersburg during the Bloody Sunday massacre in 1905, in which hundreds of unarmed protestors were killed outside the Winter Palace - an event that was a key flashpoint in the run-up to the revolution of 1917.
The example offered in the sale is in mint, uncirculated condition - unusual for this rare issue. In 2010, a similar example sold at Bonhams New York for $187,200.
A Nicholas II 1897 gold 10 rouble coin, described as proof-like and uncirculated, is estimated at $100,000.
The coin was issued as part of a wide ranging programme of currency reforms designed to tie the rouble to the gold standard - meaning that it could be traded internationally.
It features a profile of Nicholas II along with the double-headed imperial eagle.
A 37½ rouble coin dating to 1902 is valued at $75,000.
The coin represents the largest denomination ever issued in Russia, and was based on the French 100 franc coin. Only 225 were produced, with 200 given as gifts by the tsar.
We have a selection of investment grade coins available to purchase.
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