Lot 3732

Description

Paul I, (1796 - 1801), 1801 dated Medal or ’Memorial Rouble’ comprising 50 medals or pattern roubles in golden alloy, 50 medals or pattern roubles in polished pewter and 50 medals or pattern roubles in high grade copper, struck to a prooflike/proof finish in limited quantities, FDC. (150)

From a total mintage of only 875 pieces of each metal. Paul was obsessed with the notion that he would be assassinated, and rightly so! In March 1801 he was murdered in his bedroom by a band of dismissed army officers. Some see Paul as an eccentric and delusional ruler, but others view him as a man of high morals who fought corruption in the state.