Russia 1913-SP EB 20 kopeks
This specimen was lot 25440 in Heritage sale 3019 (Chicago, April 2012), where it sold for $6,900. The catalog description[1] noted, "Nicholas II Proof 20 Kopecks 1913 СПБ- ЭБ, Crowned double-headed Imperial eagle / Crowned date and value in wreath, Proof 65 Cameo NGC. Fully mirrored fields with frosted devices and a bold strike. A very scarce issue." 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. Mintmaster Elikum Babayantz 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: 4,250,000 (including mintmaster BC).
Specification: 3.6 g, 0.500 fine silver, .058 troy oz ASW.
Catalog reference: Bitkin 114 (R2), KM-Y22a.1.
- [1]Tucker, Warren, and Cristiano Bierrenbach, World and Ancient Coins sale 3019, Dallas: Heritage Auction Galleries, 2012.
- 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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