Monument to Alexander II Commemorative Rouble
Country of Origin: Russian Empire
Year of Issue: 1898
Denomination: 1 Rouble
Composition: Silver (.900 fine)
Brief Description
A large silver commemorative coin featuring the portrait of Tsar Alexander II and the monument dedicated to him in the Moscow Kremlin.
Historical Significance
This coin commemorates the inauguration of the monument to Alexander II in the Moscow Kremlin in 1898. Alexander II was known as the 'Tsar-Liberator' for his emancipation of the serfs.
Estimated Value
$1,500 - $3,000 for authentic circulated examples; $5,000+ for high-grade Uncirculated specimens. Note: High frequency of high-quality fakes.
Care Instructions
Handle only by the edges using cotton gloves. Store in a PVC-free, archival-quality flip or slab. Do not clean or polish, as this destroys numismatic value.
Mint Mark
Typical mint mark (engraver initials) on edge: (А·Г) Apollon Grasof, St. Petersburg Mint
Mintage & Rarity
Total mintage of 5,000 pieces; extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Weight & Diameter
20.00 grams / 33.65 mm
Edge
Lettered edge (typical for this issue)
Apparent Grade
Extremely Fine (XF) to About Uncirculated (AU) details; however, the surface appearance and lack of crisp detail suggest this specific item is likely a modern high-quality reproduction/fake.
Obverse (Front)
Portrait of Emperor Alexander II facing left. Legend around: 'АЛЕКСАНДРЪ II ИМПЕРАТОРЪ И САМОДЕРЖЕЦЪ ВСЕРОССIЙСКIЙ' (Alexander II Emperor and Autocrat of all Russia).
Reverse (Back)
View of the monument to Alexander II in the Moscow Kremlin. Legend above commemorates the dates; 'РУБЛЬ' (Rouble) at the bottom.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Rarity (extremely low mintage), silver content, historical subject matter, and the high demand for Russian Imperial commemoratives.
Similar Coins
Modern Chinese-made 'Cabinet' fakes. Authentic roubles of Nicholas II are common, but the Monument Rouble is a specific rare commemorative.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Counterfeits are incredibly common. Check for exact weight (20.0g), non-magnetic properties, correct edge lettering, and 'soft' details in the monument's arches which indicate casting rather than striking.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major die varieties, but proofs exist which are exceptionally valuable.
Created At: 2026-05-05T18:39:50.159675