Russia Bronze (Silvered) Prize Medal ND (1899) – Imperial Russian Society of Fish Farming and Fishing – Nicholas II (1894-1917)

32.43g. 39mm. UNC/UNC. 

Medaliers: Obverse – S. Z. Vazhenin (unsigned); Reverse – Gavrilov (unsigned). 

Diakov 1063.1 Ae - N1. 

The medal was silvered to enhance its appearance — a common historical practice intended to improve visual qualities by applying a silver or gold coating. In this case, the surface was silvered over existing nicks, scratches or areas and little corrosion. It was also subtly darkened (patinated) to accentuate the finer details of the design. 

Obv.: In the center, a detailed image of a sterlet (sturgeon) shown in full length. Above and below are semicircular panels with inscriptions. Around the fish are various fishing tools: nets, rod, landing net, and trident. 

Inscription around: 

ИМПЕРАТОРСКОЕ РОССIЙСКОЕ ОБЩЕСТВО РЫБОВОДСТВА И РЫБОЛОВСТВА 

(Imperial Russian Society of Fish Farming and Fishing). 

Rev.: Mixed wreath of laurel and oak branches encircling a blank central field, intended for engraving. 

This prize medal was issued by the Imperial Russian Society of Fish Farming and Fishing in 1899, reflecting the growing interest in scientific aquaculture and resource management in the second half of the 19th century. The society was founded in 1881 under the august patronage of His Imperial Highness Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich (1857–1905). By 1902, it included 9 honorary members, 276 full members, and 6 corresponding members, and was headquartered in St. Petersburg.