| Obverse description |
Features on top the relief of the State Coat of Arms of the Republic of Belarus with the inscription in two lines: `РЭСПУБЛIКА БЕЛАРУСЬ` (REPUBLIC OF BELARUS); at the bottom – face value, year of issue. |
| Obverse script |
Cyrillic |
| Obverse lettering |
РЭСПУБЛIКА БЕЛАРУСЬ 1 РУБЕЛЬ 1996 |
| Reverse description |
Features in the center the relief of a gymnast on a gymnastic apparatus; in the right–hand part – against the ornamental background – the emblem of the National Olympic Comittee of the Republic of Belarus; the inscription along the rim: `БЕЛАРУСЬ АЛIМПIЙСКАЯ` (OLYMPIC BELARUS). |
| Reverse script |
Cyrillic |
| Reverse lettering |
БЕЛАРУСЬ АЛIМПIЙСКАЯ |
| Edge |
Reeded |
| Mint |
|
| Mintage |
1996 - Antique finish - 5 000
|
| Numisquare ID |
1144042850 |
Historical Context: The 1996 1 Rouble Gymnast on Rings was issued by Belarus during a pivotal period following its 1991 declaration of independence. Under President Alyaksandr Lukashenka, the young nation was forging its distinct national identity and monetary system. This commemorative coin, celebrating gymnastics, reflects Belarus's aspiration for international recognition and pride in athletic excellence, a legacy deeply rooted in the Soviet era's emphasis on sports as a symbol of national strength.
Artistry: While the specific engraver is often uncredited for this era, the coin exemplifies the post-Soviet academic realist stylistic school. The obverse typically features the national emblem of Belarus, while the reverse masterfully depicts a male gymnast performing on the rings. The design meticulously captures the athlete's muscular physique, dynamic pose, and intense concentration, emphasizing both the physical power and artistic grace inherent in the sport.
Technical/Grading: For the 1996 1 Rouble Gymnast on Rings, critical high-points for grading include the gymnast's raised limbs, the definition of musculature in the arms and shoulders, and the intricate details of the rings. A strong strike will reveal sharp separation between the athlete's hands and the rings, along with clear facial features. Weak strikes may show flatness on highest relief areas. Copper-nickel compositions generally allow for good detail, but surface abrasions are common.