Lot 3740

Description

Alexander I, (1801 - 1825), 1825 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. Alexander remains one of Russia’s most interesting and complex rulers, and his last days are shrouded in mystery. Late in 1825 he travelled to southern Russia but contracted typhus and died. His sudden death sparked rumours that he had renounced the throne and fled. The British ambassador vowed he had ’seen’ Alexander boarding a ship, though others said he became a monk. In 1925 the Soviets opened Alexander’s tomb and it was empty!