Finland / Russia Bronze Medal 1894 - Unveiling of the monument to Alexander II in Helsinki (Helsingfors) - Nicholas II (1894-1917)

149.62g. 69mm. UNC/UNC. In original case. 

Helsingfors mint. 

Medalier: A. Griliches-Son (On reverse, to the right along the rim: GRILICHES JUNIOR). 

Diakov 1096.1. 

Obv.: Bust of Emperor Alexander II facing right within circular inscription; medalist’s signature GRILICHES on the truncation of the neck. 

Legend around: 

ALEXANDER II IMPERATOR ET MAGNUS PRINCEPS 

(Alexander II, Emperor and Grand Prince). 

Rev.: View of the monument to Emperor Alexander II in Helsinki (Helsingfors). 

Legend around: 

MAJORA IPSE SUI SOLUS POSUIT MONUMENTA 

(He alone erected monuments greater than himself). 

Exergue: 

AUSPICIIS ALEXANDRI III | FENNIA GRATA | MDCCCXCIV 

(By the command of Alexander III | Finland grateful | 1894). 

This medal commemorates the official unveiling in 1894 of the monument to Emperor Alexander II in Helsinki, capital of the Grand Duchy of Finland. Alexander II was especially revered in Finland for his liberal policies, most notably the restoration of the Finnish Diet in 1863 and the preservation of Finland’s autonomous legal and administrative system within the Russian Empire. The monument was financed by public subscription and authorized during the reign of Alexander III, reflecting Finnish gratitude toward Alexander II despite the tightening imperial policy of the late 19th century. The unveiling took place shortly after the accession of Nicholas II, underscoring the symbolic continuity of imperial authority in Finland.