Kopeck Second people's militia in the name of Fyodor, Pskov

Historical Context: This Kopeck, issued by the Second People's Militia in Pskov (1612-1613), is a vital numismatic artifact from Russia's tumultuous Time of Troubles. With the Rurikid dynasty extinguished and foreign intervention rampant, various militias emerged. The Second People's Militia, led by Minin and Pozharsky, was pivotal in expelling Polish-Lithuanian forces and restoring Russian sovereignty, paving the way for the Romanov dynasty. Invoking the deceased Tsar Fyodor I Ivanovich provided legitimacy during this chaotic interregnum.

Artistry: The artistry of this kopeck reflects its emergency coinage status. No specific engraver is identifiable; it represents the work of local, often untrained, artisans. The stylistic school is provincial, almost folk-art, diverging from refined imperial issues. The design typically features a mounted horseman, often St. George or a Tsar, on one side. The reverse bears a Cyrillic inscription, here invoking "Tsar and Grand Prince Fyodor Ivanovich of All Rus," affirming the militia's claim to authority.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a diminutive 12 mm silver planchet weighing 0.66 gg, this kopeck exemplifies its production challenges. Strikes are characteristically irregular, often off-center, and frequently incomplete, with portions of the design or inscription missing. Flans are typically crude and unevenly shaped. High-points for wear or strike quality include the horseman's head, spear, and any legible portions of the Tsar's name. Clear dates or mint marks are often weakly struck or absent, impacting collector desirability.