Catalog
| Issuer | Belarus |
|---|---|
| Year | 1996 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 50 Roubles (50 BYB) |
| Currency | First Rouble (1992-2000) |
| Composition | Gold (.999) |
| Weight | 7.78 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#32 |
| 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, weight of the coin and alloy standard. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Cyrillic |
| Obverse lettering |
РЭСПУБЛIКА БЕЛАРУСЬ 50 РУБЛЁЎ 1996 Au 999 7.78г (Translation: REPUBLIC OF BELARUS 50 RUBLES 1996 Au 999 7.78g) |
| Reverse description | Features in the center the relief of a female gymnast with a ribbon; 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 (Translation: OLYMPIC BELARUS) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1996 - Proof - 500 |
| Numisquare ID | 1012260540 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued by Belarus in 1996, the 50 Roubles Gymnast Ribbon Dancer coin emerged during a pivotal period in the nation's history. Following the Soviet Union's dissolution, Belarus actively forged its independent identity. Under Alexander Lukashenka's early presidency, the country sought to establish its distinct national narrative. This coin, featuring a rhythmic gymnast, symbolically highlights Belarus's pride in athletic achievements and cultural prowess, reflecting a broader effort to define its place in the post-Soviet world.
Artistry: The coin's design masterfully captures the grace and dynamism of rhythmic gymnastics. While the specific engraver remains largely unattributed, the artistic style is characteristic of modern commemorative realism. The reverse depicts a female gymnast mid-performance, elegantly manipulating a flowing ribbon, emphasizing fluid lines and athletic form. The obverse typically features the national emblem of Belarus, the denomination "50 РУБЛЁЎ," and the year "1996," rendered with precise detail, contrasting with the energetic reverse.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .999 fine gold, weighing 7.78 grams and measuring 22 millimeters, this coin is a quarter-ounce bullion-commemorative. For grading, key high-points on the reverse include the gymnast's hair, facial features, limb definition, and the intricate folds of the ribbon. A strong strike will exhibit full detail in these areas, particularly ensuring the ribbon appears distinct and not flattened. The fields, often proof-like, should be free of significant hairlines or marks, preserving the coin's original luster and enhancing the design's visual impact.