Aswe've reported, an important AN XII model general's glaive is to be one of the key lots at Czerny's Fine Antique Arms & Armour, Russian Orders & Militaria auction early next month.

The straight, double-edged, damask blade, ribbed at the centre with double fuller and hollow tip on both sides of the blade is a truly spectacular piece and should make an excellent investment.

However, no doubt that has left a number of collectors hanging. What about the Russian medals? Are they not part of one of the most exciting collectibles markets at the moment?

Imperial order White Eagle badge

Indeed they are, and the auction does have some genuinely fine pieces - ones which would not look out of place in the Walter Mooromsky collection:

Firstly, there is an Order of Saint Vladimir. The golden, enamelled second class cross bears the stamp "56" and has an eagle at the ring. It is very rare, and dates to the 19th Century. Czerny's have listed it at €38,000-€48,000 (up to $67,700).

We suspect it may be worth more. Czerny's do not give the details of a condition report, simply noting that it as 'excellent' - it certainly appears to be pristine enough to display at the front of any medal collection.

The enamelled eagles

Probably even more valuable is an Imperial order of the White Eagle. It is a gold, enamelled pendant with a mobile crown which has the stamp "56" and two eagles at the ring. Extremely rare, it dates to circa 1900 and again is described as being in excellent condition.

It is expected to bring €50,000-€70,000 (nearly $100,000) in Czerny's auction which takes place in Sarzana, Italy and online on April 3.