Russia 1885-SP AG 20 kopeks
This specimen was lot 22240 in Stack's Bowers NYINC sale (New York, January 2023), where it sold for $5,280. The catalog description[1] noted, "RUSSIA. 20 Kopeks, 1885-CNB AT. St. Petersburg Mint. Alexander III. PCGS PROOF-66 Cameo. This VERY RARE and captivating proof issue, one of just two observed in the PCGS census, presents an intense degree of dazzling brilliance along with its razor sharp strike. In addition, an alluring violet-champagne hue simply imparts that much more beauty and elegance to its overall nature." This type is listed for 1867-93 and 1901-14. The nineteenth century dates are scarce in nice condition but the later dates are common with, of course, the exception of the proofs. In 1914, Russia suicidally plunged into World War One, which conflict would lead to the destruction of the regime. Mintmaster AG was Appolon Grasgov.
Recorded mintage: 1,610,000.
Specification: 3.60 g, 0.500 fine silver.
Catalog reference: KM Y22a.1; Bit-104.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1801-1900, 9th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
- Bitkin, Vladimir, Composite Catalogue of Russian Coins, Part II (1740-1917), Kiev: Moneta, 2003.
- Harris, Robert P., Guidebook of Russian Coins, 1725 to 1970, Santa Cruz, CA: Bonanza Press, 1971.
- [1]Orsini, Matt, Kyle Ponterio and Jeremy Bostwick, The January 2023 NYINC Auction: Ancient Coins, World Coins & Paper Money, featuring the Taraszka Collection and the Mark and Dottie Salton Collection, Costa Mesa, CA: Stack's Bowers LLC, 2022.
Link to: