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- Product ID: 43501
The Russia 1/4 Kopek 1899, designated as KM#47.1 and presented in Uncirculated (UNC) condition, is a numismatic gem that provides a fascinating glimpse into Russia's history and coinage. This diminutive yet historically significant coin boasts a captivating design, a noteworthy minting history, and remarkable preservation, making it a cherished piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The obverse of the coin features a crowned double-headed eagle, the iconic emblem of the Russian Empire. The eagle clutches a scepter and an orb, symbolizing the imperial authority of the Russian monarchy. Above the eagle's heads, the imperial crown hovers, signifying the sovereign power vested in the empire. Encircling the eagle are the words "Б.М.ЕПОЦАРСКАЯ ИМП.ДЕЛ. МОСК. НАК.ГРАВ." (B.M. Yekaterinburg Imperial Mint, Moscow Department), providing insight into its origin and minting location.
The reverse of the coin exhibits the coin's denomination, "1/4 КОПЕЙКИ" (1/4 Kopek), along with the year of issue, "1899." The elegant Cyrillic lettering adds a distinctive touch to the design, reflecting the linguistic character of the era. Surrounding the denomination and year are decorative elements, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the coin.
This coin's history is deeply intertwined with the Russian Empire's monetary system of the late 19th century. The Kopek, a subdivision of the Ruble, was a standard denomination in Russian coinage. It served as a unit of currency for everyday transactions and commerce. The coin's design, featuring the imperial eagle, emphasizes the close association between the monarchy and the nation's currency.
The coin was struck at the Yekaterinburg Imperial Mint, a prominent minting facility in the Russian Empire. Moscow, as indicated on the coin, was the department responsible for overseeing the mint's operations. This mint had a rich history of producing high-quality coinage for the empire and played a crucial role in meeting the monetary needs of the vast Russian territories.
While the exact mintage figures for this specific 1899 1/4 Kopek coin are not readily available, it is important to note that coins of this era were typically minted in large quantities to facilitate everyday transactions. However, the survival of such coins in Uncirculated condition, as seen in this example, is a testament to their scarcity and the preservation efforts of collectors.
The denomination of 1/4 Kopek signifies that this coin was a fractional unit of the Ruble, the primary currency of the Russian Empire. Such fractional denominations were essential for conducting small-scale trade and commerce, making them indispensable in daily economic transactions.
This coin's Uncirculated (UNC) condition is a noteworthy aspect of its appeal to collectors. UNC coins are characterized by their pristine state, having never entered circulation or suffered the wear and tear associated with everyday use. The sharp details, unmarred surfaces, and original luster contribute to its numismatic desirability.
An intriguing fact about Russia during this period is its vast and diverse empire, spanning across Eurasia and encompassing numerous cultures, languages, and traditions. The Russian Empire was a multi-ethnic, multi-religious state with a rich tapestry of peoples and histories. Coins like this 1/4 Kopek are tangible artifacts that reflect the empire's unity and diversity.
In conclusion, the Russia 1/4 Kopek 1899 KM#47.1 in UNC condition is a captivating relic from the Russian Empire's monetary history. Its elegant design, minting history, and remarkable preservation make it a sought-after numismatic specimen. As a fractional unit of currency, it played an essential role in the daily economic transactions of the empire, highlighting its significance in Russia's rich numismatic heritage.