Russia Silver Medal 1852 - On the Death of Duke Maximilian of Leuchtenberg

29.10g. 42mm. AU/AU. Ex jewelry. Diakov 606.2 Ar R3. Very rare. 

Obv.: Bust portrait of Duke Maximilian in frontal view, wearing a hussar uniform. Circular inscription: 

MAXIMILIANVS DVX LEVCHTENBERGENSIS | NAT. 20 SEPT. - 2 OCT. A. 1817 DEN. 20 OCT. - 1 NOV. A. 1852; 

(Maximilian, Duke of Leuchtenberg, born September 20 - October 2, 1817, died October 20 - November 1, 1852.); 

Rev.: In the center, a Imperial Russian eagle with the duke's coat of arms on its chest, surrounded by an inscription: 

SEMPER NOMENQUE TUUM LAUDESQUM MANEBUN;

(Your name and your praises will always remain). 

Maximilian of Leuchtenberg (1817–1852) was a German duke and son-in-law of Emperor Nicholas I, who played a significant role in Russia's cultural and industrial development. In 1839, he married Grand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna, the daughter of Nicholas I, and moved to Russia, becoming an influential figure at the imperial court. 

Maximilian served as the President of the Imperial Academy of Arts from 1843, where he fostered the development of art and education, significantly shaping Russian artistic institutions. Between 1844 and 1849, he directed the Mining Institute, where he promoted advancements in mining and metallurgy, contributing to the modernization of these industries. 

A pioneer of industrial galvanoplastics in Russia, Maximilian introduced innovative technologies that had a lasting impact on production processes. His efforts in cultural and technical fields exemplified the blending of European expertise with Russian traditions, leaving a notable legacy in the country's progress during the mid-19th century.