Russia 1913-SP EB 10 kopeks
This specimen was lot 25640 in Heritage sale 3026 (Long Beach, October 2013), where it sold for $4,700. The catalog description[1] noted, "Nicholas II silver 10 Kopecks 1913 СПБ-ЭБ, Crowned double-headed Imperial eagle in circle / Crowned date and value in wreath, Proof 66 Ultra Cameo NGC. A superb example with no apparent flaws and stunning cameo contrast. Very rare in Proof and the nicest example of this elusive date we have seen." This type is listed for 1867-1914. The nineteenth century dates are scarce in nice condition but the later dates are common with, of course, the exception of the proofs. This particular mintmaster issued regular circulation strikes 1906-12 and proofs only in 1913 whereas mintmaster BC is noted for 1912-17. In 1914, Russia plunged into World War One, which conflict would lead to the destruction of the regime.
Recorded mintage: 7,250,000 (including mintmaster BC).
Specification: 1.8 g, 0.500 fine silver, .028 troy oz ASW.
Catalog reference: Bitkin 165 (R2), KM-Y20a.2.
- [1]Bierrenbach, Cristiano, Warren Tucker and Scott Cordry, Heritage Signature Auction 3026, World & Ancient Coins, featuring the RLM Collection, Part Two, the Nogales Collection and the Goetz Medals Die Archive, Dallas, TX: Heritage Auction Galleries, 2013.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1901-2000, 47th 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.
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