Lot 3860
Poland. 25 Zlotych, 1819-IB. Bitkin 1st ed-793; Fr-106; KM-C102. Alexander I of Russia. Bare head right. Reverse :: Crowned double-headed eagle. Practically mint state with original luster. Very Rare. NGC graded AU-58.
* Alexander I (ruler of Russia 1801-1825) was the son of Paul I. On his accession he was young energetic and popular, and the first half of his reign was marked by liberal policies. Youthful idealism was the order of the day, and the reformer Michael Speransky became a close adviser to the new Czar. By 1812, however, grave problems in Europe began to weigh and Speransky was ousted by his rivals who believed his reforms were too ambitious. Eventually, Alexander turned his energies towards the defeat of Napoleon, and despite his successes, the affairs of state seemed to take their toll. Alexander remains one of Russia's most interesting and complex rulers, and his last days are shrouded in mystery. Late in 1825 he travelled to Southern Russia where he contracted typhoid and died. His sudden death sparked rumors that he had renounced the throne and fled! The British ambassador vowed that he had 'seen' Alexander boarding a ship, although some say that he became a monk. In 1925 the Soviets opened his tomb and it was empty!
Estimated Value $5,000-UP.
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| Realized $4,935 |
