Russia Tin-Alloy Medal 1774 (Novodel late 18th century) – In memory of the Peace with the Ottoman Empire, 10 July 1774 – Catherine II (1762–1796)

167.32g. 82mm. UNC/UNC. 

Medaliers: Johann Georg Jaeger (on obverse, I • G • IÆGER • F), Friedrich W. Gass (on reverse, GASS • F). 

Diakov 165.1. Ar - R3, Ae - R2. 

Tin-lead alloy medals are rarely found in excellent condition, as the metal is prone to oxidation and easily susceptible to mechanical damage. 

Obv.: Bust of Empress Catherine II facing right, wearing a crown and mantle. 

Inscription around: 

Б • М • ЕКАТЕРИНА . II • IМПЕРАТ • И • САМОДЕРЖ • ВСЕРОСС • 

(By the Grace of God, Catherine II, Empress and Autocrat of All Russia). 

Below the truncation: 

I • G • IÆGER • F 

(Engraved by I. G. Jaeger). 

Rev.: Pallas Athena (Minerva) stands holding a spear, pointing with a staff toward a warship at sea; military trophies lie at her side. 

Inscription around: 

ТВЕРДОСТIЮ РАЗУМОМЪ И СИЛОЮ •  

(By steadfastness, wisdom, and strength). 

To the left above the exergue: 

GASS • F 

(Engraved by Gass). 

Below the truncation: 

МИРЪ СЪ ОТТОМАНСКОЮ ПОРТОЮ / ЗАКЛЮЧЕНЪ • 10 IЮЛЯ • I 1774 ГОДА • 

(Peace with the Ottoman Empire concluded on 10 July 1774). 

This medal commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Küçük Kaynarca, which ended the Russo-Turkish War of 1768–1774. It was one of the most important treaties of Catherine the Great’s reign, significantly expanding Russian influence in the Black Sea region. 

A superb example of 18th-century Russian medallic art, this piece reflects the refined neoclassical style and exceptional craftsmanship of the imperial engravers. The precise execution of portraits and allegory by Jaeger and Gass highlights the high level of artistry achieved in commemorative medals of Catherine the Great’s reign. 

In the Russian Empire, tin-lead alloy medals were primarily produced for collectors and educational use. The soft metal reduced wear on dies, making it ideal for limited or repeat strikes, while also lowering production costs. These medals were well-suited for study collections and displays, and offered collectors a more affordable way to acquire rare types with preserved visual and historical detail.