Russia Bronze (Silvered) Medal 1741 – Accession of Empress Elizabeth, 25 November 1741 – Elizabeth I (1741–1761)

104.05g. 64mm. AU/AU. 

Medalier: Timofey Ivanov (on obverse, ТИМОѲЕЙ IBAHOBЪ beneath the truncation). 

Diakov 84.2. Rare. 

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 and scratches. It was also subtly darkened (patinated) to accentuate the finer details of the design. 

Obv.: Half-length bust of Empress Elizabeth, crowned and draped in an imperial mantle, facing right. 

Inscription around: 

D • G • ELISABETA • AVGVSTA • OMN • ROSS • 

(By the grace of God, Elizabeth, Empress of All Russia). 

Rev.: Elizabeth advancing toward the palace, accompanied by loyal guards. 

Inscription in field: 

RESTITVIT REM 

(She restored the state). 

Below the scene: 

•VINDIC • SOL • PATER • D • | XXV • NOV • MDCCXLI • 

([She] reclaimed the throne of her father. 25 November 1741). 

This medal commemorates the bloodless coup of 25 November 1741, when Elizabeth seized the Russian throne with the support of the Preobrazhensky Guards, restoring the Romanov line. The finely executed composition emphasizes the legitimacy and popular support of her accession.