Russia Bronze (Silvered) Medal 1903 – Monument to Alexander III in the Hall of the St. Petersburg Exchange – Nicholas II (1894–1917).

199.51g. 77mm. XF/XF. 

Medalier: A. Griliches Jr. and I.L. (on obverse, unknown medalier  И.Л. and А.А.Г. below the image).

Diakov 1389.1. Ae - R1.

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.: Bust of Emperor Alexander III in military uniform with an order at the neck and aiguillette on the right shoulder, mounted on a columnar pedestal; below, oak and laurel branches tied with a ribbon; above, a semicircular inscription; engraver’s initials at the bottom.

Inscription above:

ИМПЕРАТОРУ АЛЕКСАНДРУ III

(To Emperor Alexander III)

Rev.: Seven-line inscription surrounded below by laurel branches tied with a ribbon.

Inscription in field:

СООРУЖЕНЪ | ВЪ ЦАРСТВОВАHIЕ | ИМПЕРАТОРА | НИКОЛАЯ II | С • ПЕТЕРБУРГСКИМЪ БИРЖЕВЫМЪ | ОБЩЕСТВОМЪ | 1903 Г .

(Erected during the reign of Emperor Nicholas II by the St. Petersburg Exchange Society, 1903)

The monument to Alexander III installed in the hall of the St. Petersburg Exchange was a tribute to the late emperor’s reign and contributions. The bust and pedestal ensemble symbolized the reverence held for him by the commercial community of the capital during the reign of his son, Nicholas II.