File:Russia SB117-3311o.jpg

This specimen was lot 3311 in Stack's Bowers NYINC sale (New York, January 2017), where it sold for $117,500. The catalog description^[1] noted, "RUSSIA. Ducat, 1716. Peter I (The Great) (1689-1725). PCGS AU-55 Secure Holder. Fr-90; KM-151; Bit-55; Dia-4; Sev-44. EXTREMELY RARE and desirable early one year type Ducat of the Russian Empire with a Latin inscription and Arabic date. No clasp or embroidery on mantle, large eagle on reverse. The "7" in the date has been re-engraved to fix the retrograde issue which is observed on some examples of this type. Flan is a bit wavy but clearly it received quite a strong strike as all of the devices and letters are in relief with only a few points of weakness on the higher and more detailed areas. A bit of handling wear on laurels and eagle's breast but otherwise very little in the way of flattening or loss of detail. Some scattered tiny contact marks as would be expected, none of which are overt or eye catching. Essentially untoned with a pleasing yellow color and good remaining luster in protected areas. A desirable piece in any grade. This especially nice specimen is tied with two other examples as the finest certified with only one graded finer. Ex: Stack's Sale March 4-5, 1988, Lot #1456."