Catalog
| Issuer | Soviet Union |
|---|---|
| Year | 1989 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 100 Roubles (100 SUR) |
| Currency | Rouble (1961-1991) |
| Composition | Gold (.900) |
| Weight | 17.45 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Thickness | 1.8 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | 1991 |
| Reference(s) | Y#226, Schön#183 |
| Obverse description | The coat of arms of the Soviet Union; value, date. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Cyrillic |
| Obverse lettering |
СССР Au900 15.55 ММД 100 РУБЛЕЙ 1989 (Translation: USSR MMD 100 Roubles) |
| Reverse description | State Seal of Ivan III. |
| Reverse script | Cyrillic |
| Reverse lettering |
500∙ЛЕТИЕ ЕДИНОГО РУССКОГО ГОСУДАРСТВА 1497 г. ∙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННАЯ ПЕЧАТЬ ИВАНА III ∙ (Translation: 500th Anniversary of the United Russian State 1497 year State Seal of Ivan III) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
(ММД) Moscow Mint (Московский монетный двор), Russia (?-date) |
| Mintage |
1989 ММД - Proof - 14 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 1010939610 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 1989 by the Soviet Union, this 100 Roubles gold coin commemorates the State Seal of Ivan III (Ivan the Great), Grand Prince of Moscow from 1462-1505. Ivan III was pivotal, unifying Russian principalities, ending the Mongol-Tatar yoke, and establishing the centralized Russian state. His reign saw the adoption of the double-headed eagle, a Byzantine symbol, as the state emblem, signifying Moscow as the "Third Rome" and successor to the Eastern Roman Empire.
Artistry: The coin's reverse masterfully depicts the State Seal of Ivan III, a crucial emblem of nascent Russian statehood. While specific engravers for Soviet issues are often uncredited, the design blends historical authenticity with numismatic precision. The seal typically features the double-headed eagle and Saint George slaying the dragon, both symbols adopted by Ivan III. The rendition captures intricate medieval heraldry, emphasizing stylized, powerful imagery reflecting its historical significance.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine gold (17.45 grams, 30 mm), this coin typically exhibits a high-quality strike, characteristic of Soviet precious metal issues. Key high-points for grading include the crowns and feathers of the double-headed eagle, plus details of Saint George, his horse, and the dragon on the central shield. Full definition in these areas indicates a strong strike. Fields are generally proof-like or brilliant uncirculated, with minimal bag marks expected for higher grades, showcasing robust technical execution.