1902 Russian Empire 5 Roubles Gold Coin Brooch/Pendant in Wire-Wrap Bezel
Jewelry-mounted Numismatic Coin (convertible Brooch or Pendant) · Yellow Gold. The coin has a classic warm hue with a slight reddish/copper undertone typical of Late Imperial Russian minting.
Purity: Coin: 21.6K (900 fine/90% gold). Mounting: Likely 14K to 18K or lower-carat base metal alloy (pending acid test).
Type
Jewelry-mounted Numismatic Coin (convertible Brooch or Pendant)
Purity
Coin: 21.6K (900 fine/90% gold). Mounting: Likely 14K to 18K or lower-carat base metal alloy (pending acid test).
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The coin has a classic warm hue with a slight reddish/copper undertone typical of Late Imperial Russian minting.
Weight
Coin: 4.3 grams total (contains 3.87g pure gold). Total piece estimate: 6.5-8.0 grams including mounting.
Description
A historic 1902 gold 5-Rouble coin featuring the coat of arms of the Russian Empire, encased in a decorative wire-wrapped bezel. The outer ring is adorned with scalloped wire loops and small suspended metal discs that chime when moved. This piece represents a marriage of numismatic value and ethnic jewelry design.
Key Features
Imperial Russian Eagle insignia; '5 Roubles' denomination in Cyrillic; kinetic dangles; hand-coiled wire bezel construction.
Color & Finish
Coin features a die-struck matte luster with circulated wear. Bezel has an aged, dark brassy patina with wire-twist finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Coin: Reverse shows '5 РУБЛЕЙ 1902 Г.' and Imperial Eagle. Bezel: No visible hallmarks on front; typical of custom folk-style mounting.
Dimensions Estimate
Coin diameter: 18.5 mm. Total width including wire bezel: approx. 28-30 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones. Decorative metal dangles (spangles) attached to the bottom rim for kinetic movement.
Clasp & Closure
Remnants of a thread-sewn or pin-back mounting on the left; appears to have been part of a garment or fabric attachment.
Chain & Links
Bezel consists of a coiled wire loop (filigree style) with secondary jump rings holding flat circular dangles.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-manipulated wire work. The soldering of the jump rings and the fit of the coin indicate a rustic, non-commercial workshop origin.
Authentication Indicators
Correct Cyrillic font and eagle iconography for 1902; color consistent with 90% gold; reeded edge partially visible inside bezel.
Origin & Maker
Coin: St. Petersburg Mint, Russia. Mounting: Unknown artisan, possibly Eastern European or Central Asian origin.
Era & Period
Coin: Late Imperial Russia (Nicholas II). Mounting: Likely mid-20th century folk jewelry or tribal revival.
Age Estimate
Coin: 1902. Mounting: Circa 1940-1970 based on the wear and construction style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the wealth of the Romanov dynasty. Such coins were frequently mounted into jewelry by displaced Russians or as folk talismans in neighboring regions.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. The mounting is damaged with loose threads and fraying fabric on the left. The coin shows circulation wear and possible solder contact.
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by the gold spot price for the coin weight (approx. $250-$300 melt value) plus a small premium for the historic item.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning only; do not polish the coin as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a dry environment to prevent further bezel oxidation.
Similar Items
10 Rouble 'Gold Chervonets', Austrian Ducat jewelry, or British Sovereign coin pendants.
Interesting Facts
The 5 Rouble coin was known as the 'Half-Imperial.' Millions were struck under Nicholas II, making them one of the most recognized world gold coins today.