Russian 1993 George the Victorious Gold Bullion Coin (50 Roubles)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold with high copper content characteristic of Russian gold coinage
Purity: 22K (.900 Fineness) - Contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
22K (.900 Fineness) - Contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with high copper content characteristic of Russian gold coinage
Weight
7.78 grams (1/4 Troy Ounce) of pure gold content; total weight approximately 8.64 grams
Description
A 1993 Russian 50 Rouble gold coin featuring the iconic imagery of Saint George the Victorious slaying the dragon. This piece represents the early bullion releases of the modern Russian Federation. While technically legal tender, it is primarily valued for its precious metal content and historical context following the dissolution of the USSR.
Key Features
Stylized hammer and sickle or double eagle motifs; specific 1993 date; Cyrillic lettering; reeded edge profile
Color & Finish
Pale warm yellow with significant surface abrasions; matte to satin luster with evidence of extensive circulation or improper storage
Hallmarks & Stamps
Date stamp '1993' visible; Moscow (ММД) or St. Petersburg (СПМД) mint marks typically located on the reverse near the denomination; Russian Federation double-headed eagle or George the Victorious design
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 22.60 mm; Thickness: 1.60 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; standard die-struck bullion coin
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Reeded edge)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Reeded coin edge style)
Craftsmanship Details
Original strike was die-struck on a machine-planchet; however, current state shows heavy mechanical wear and flattening of detail in the central devices.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic date font (1993); reeded edge appearance; color consistent with 900 fine Russian gold. Note: Surface quality appears cast or heavily damaged; professional XRF/weight testing required to rule out lead-core counterfeits.
Origin & Maker
Russian Federation; minted by the Bank of Russia at either the Moscow or St. Petersburg Mint
Era & Period
Post-Soviet Era (1990s) - Transition period of the Russian Federation
Age Estimate
Dated 1993; approximately 31 years old
Cultural Significance
Represents the return of Orthodox Christian and Imperial-era symbolism (Saint George) to Russian currency after seven decades of Soviet iconography.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair (G-VG). The coin shows significant surface wear, deep scratches (distracting marks across the center), and possible environmental damage. Significant loss of original mint luster.
Value Estimate
Primarily melt value due to condition; Gold spot price x 0.225 oz plus a minimal $10-$20 premium for the specific date.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as this further destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or archival flip to prevent further scratching.
Similar Items
Soviet Chervonets (Sower) 10 Roubles, British Sovereigns, or French 20 Francs (all share high-copper 21.6K-22K purity).
Interesting Facts
The Saint George gold coin was introduced as a successor to the Soviet 'Chervonets' (Sower) coins to provide a reliable store of value during Russia's hyperinflation in the 1990s.