Lot 3748

Description

Nicholas I, (1825 - 1855), 1855 dated Medal or ’Memorial Rouble’ comprising 50 medals or pattern roubles in polished pewter and 50 medals or pattern roubles in golden alloy 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 750 pieces of each metal. The cause of Nicholas’ death is unclear, but there are those who believe he poisoned himself after hearing of Russia’s defeat at Eupatoria during the Crimean War. History has not been kind to Nicholas, although it sometimes said that he did not enjoy the role of autocrat, he simply felt he had no choice but to shun change.