| Descrizione del dritto |
Within the circular geometric ornament – the relief of the State Coat of Arms of the Republic of Belarus; beneath – year of issue; inscriptions along the rim – on top: `РЭСПУБЛIКА БЕЛАРУСЬ` (REPUBLIC OF BELARUS), at the bottom: `АД3IН РУБЕЛЬ` (ONE ROUBLE). |
| Scrittura del dritto |
Cyrillic |
| Legenda del dritto |
РЭСПУБЛIКА БЕЛАРУСЬ 1998 • АД3IН РУБЕЛЬ • |
| Descrizione del rovescio |
In the center – the relief of the layout of Polotsk based on a 16th century engravement, in the top right–hand part – the city`s coat of arms of the 16th–18th centuries; inscriptions along the rim: `ПОЛАЦК` (POLATSK) and `ГАРАДЫ БЕЛАРУСI` (BELARUSIAN CITIES) |
| Scrittura del rovescio |
Cyrillic |
| Legenda del rovescio |
• ПОЛАЦК ГАРАДЫ БЕЛАРУСI |
| Bordo |
Reeded |
| Zecca |
|
| Tiratura |
1998 - Prooflike - 2 000
|
| ID Numisquare |
3295124380 |
Historical Context: Issued by Belarus in 1998, this 1 Rouble coin commemorates Polotsk, one of Eastern Europe's most ancient and significant cities. As capital of a powerful medieval principality from the 9th century, Polotsk was pivotal in shaping Belarusian identity and culture. Its commemoration in the post-Soviet era highlights independent Belarus's commitment to reclaiming its rich historical heritage, emphasizing ancient roots and national continuity. This coin serves as a numismatic tribute to Polotsk's enduring legacy as a cradle of Belarusian statehood and spirituality.
Artistry: The design of this 1 Rouble coin, while the engraver is uncredited, follows a modern commemorative aesthetic. The obverse features the national emblem of Belarus, encircled by the country's name, year, and denomination. The reverse prominently depicts the iconic Saint Sophia Cathedral in Polotsk, an 11th-century symbol of the city's ancient spiritual and architectural grandeur. The intricate detailing of the cathedral's domes and façade captures its historical significance, rendered with a realistic, dignified approach.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper-nickel (33 mm, 14.35 grams), this coin typically exhibits a robust strike. Key high-points for grading include the intricate architectural details of Saint Sophia Cathedral on the reverse, particularly the relief of its domes and wall texture. On the obverse, full definition of the national emblem's elements, such as sun's rays and map outlines, is crucial. Well-preserved examples will display sharp details, clear fields, and minimal contact marks, indicating strong strike quality.