Russian Saint George the Victorious 50 Rubles Gold Bullion Coin
Coin (Bullion, Investment-Grade) · Yellow Gold (Investment grade pure gold without significant alloying metals)
Purity: 24K (999 fineness), minimum 99.9% pure gold content
Type
Coin (Bullion, Investment-Grade)
Purity
24K (999 fineness), minimum 99.9% pure gold content
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Investment grade pure gold without significant alloying metals)
Weight
7.78 grams (1/4 Troy Ounce of fine gold)
Description
A classic Russian investment coin featuring Saint George the Victorious on horseback slaying a dragon with a spear. This design replaced the 'Chervonets' (Sower) and has become the primary gold bullion vehicle for the Russian Federation, mirroring the size and specifications of other international 1/4 oz gold coins.
Key Features
Saint George and the Dragon iconography; Cyrillic lettering 'БАНК РОССИИ'; specific 50 Ruble denomination
Color & Finish
Deep yellow characteristic of 24K gold; original mint satin luster with evidence of surface handling and toning
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse includes 'Au 99.9' purity stamp and '7.78' weight mark; 'БАНК РОССИИ' (Bank of Russia) lettering; M or СПМД mint mark
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 22.60 mm; Thickness of 1.60 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; standard numismatic strike
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) for security and to prevent metal shaving/clipping
Chain & Links
N/A; Solid circular coin with a reeded vertical edge pattern
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck bullion; high-relief details on the rider and horse; standard government-issued minting quality with reeded anti-counterfeit edge.
Authentication Indicators
Correct iconography for the modern 50 Ruble series; reeded edge uniformity; specific 99.9 purity marking characteristic of Russian bullion post-2006
Origin & Maker
Russia; Minted by the Moscow Mint (MMD) or Saint Petersburg Mint (SPMD)
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern Bullion Program started in 2006)
Age Estimate
Post-2006 production based on the Saint George design introduced that year
Cultural Significance
Represents the historical heraldry of the Russian State; Saint George has been a symbol of Russia since the 14th century, appearing on the Coat of Arms of Moscow.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Bullion grade. Visible surface scratches, fingerprints, and minor rim nicks. Likely AU (About Uncirculated) or low MS (Mint State) grade.
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by the current spot price of 1/4 oz of gold plus a small 3-7% dealer premium depending on market demand.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule; avoid handling with bare hands as skin oils can cause toning on 24K gold over time; do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value.
Similar Items
1/4 oz American Gold Eagle, 1/4 oz South African Krugerrand, or the older Soviet 10 Rouble Chervonets 'Sower' coin
Interesting Facts
Saint George is the patron saint of Moscow; this specific design was introduced to provide a reliable investment tool for Russian citizens following bank reforms.