Russia (St. Petersburg mint) Silver Award Large Medal ND (1895–1915) - For Zeal - Nicholas II (1894-1917)

56.53g. 51mm. XF/AU. 

Medaliers: A. Vasyutinsky, Klenov (unsigned). 

Diakov 1138.1 Ar - R1. 

Obv.: Bust of Emperor Nicholas II facing left. 

Inscription around: 

Б . М . НИКОЛАИ II ИМПЕРАТОРЪ И САМОДЕРЖЕЦЪ ВСЕРОСС. 

(By the Grace of God, Nicholas II, Emperor and Autocrat of All Russia). 

Rev.: inscription within a wreath composed of long and short branches of laurel, oak, and palm: 

ЗА УСЕРДIЕ 

(For Zeal). 

The medal “For Zeal” was awarded throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, from the reign of Alexander I through Nicholas II. It was primarily a civil distinction intended for individuals who demonstrated loyal service to the state, the imperial administration, local authorities, or public institutions. Recipients included merchants, craftsmen, clergy, teachers, estate managers, municipal officials, and persons involved in charitable, administrative, or community work. 

The medal was also granted for long and conscientious service, contributions to public welfare, exceptional diligence in official duties, and acts that benefited local society or advanced state interests. During wartime, some awards were given for support of military operations, assistance to troops, safeguarding state property, or actions connected with maintaining public order. 

Although fundamentally a civil award, the medal was occasionally presented for acts bordering on heroism or exceptional duty, and a small number of recipients earned it on ribbons of higher imperial orders. Over its long period of use, the medal served as one of the principal Imperial distinctions recognizing dedicated service across the diverse territories of the Russian Empire.