Russia Silver Jeton 1904 - In commemoration of the charity bazaar of Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna

4.06g. 23mm. AU/AU. Restauration of the suspension loop. Rare. 

Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna (1890–1956): 

Maria Pavlovna, a Grand Duchess of Russia, was the daughter of Grand Duke Pavel Alexandrovich and Princess Alexandra of Greece. She was a granddaughter of Emperor Alexander II through her father and a great-great-granddaughter of Emperor Nicholas I through her mother. 

The Tradition of Charity Bazaars: 

In Russia, charity bazaars had a long-standing tradition. These events often featured rented or donated halls decorated with pavilions and kiosks. Some stalls were allocated to businesses, trading houses, or charitable organizations that agreed to participate. The presence of royalty at these events added a special charm and drew significant public attention. 

For example, in 1903, Novosti Dnya reported: 

“Yesterday at 8 p.m., in the presence of Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich and Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna, a charity bazaar was opened in the halls of the Noble Assembly. Everyone fortunate enough to attend was eager to buy something and receive it directly from the hands of the Empress.” 

Similarly, the journal "Prizrenie i Blagotvoritelnost v Rossii" wrote: 

“On December 20, 21, and 22, under the patronage of Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna, a large charity bazaar will be held in the halls of the Noble Assembly, following the tradition of previous years. Items brought by Her Imperial Highness from France, Germany, Italy, and England will be on sale.” 

These bazaars often featured lotteries and distributed various prizes, such as colognes, brooches, cigarette cases, and other items, adding to their allure and success.