2019 Smithsonian Russian Beard Token Copper Antiqued Medal GEM BU in its Original Mint Packaging

Why purchase this Copper Smithsonian Russian Beard Token Antiqued Medal?

Peter the Great spent his reign working to modernize and Westernize his country. Part of that effort included a beard tax, which he instituted in 1705. Those who chose to pay the tax could continue to wear beards. Each person who had paid it had to carry a token to indicate that they had paid the tax. The amount of the tax varied according to the person's social standing. Few original beard tokens remain, and the Smithsonian owns some of those that do. The Smithsonian authorized these tokens, which are available exclusive from MCM. Each token was struck from 4.9 g of .999 fine copper, just like the originals. The Shire Post Mint, which specializes in antiqued coin striking methods, struck these tokens.

Historic Bearded Face Design

Both of the designs on this token are taken from the original beard tokens. On the obverse is a bearded face under a Cyrillic inscription which means, "Money taken." This refers to the tax that the holder had paid. A leafy wreath along the rim encircles the words and the design.

The inscription for the year 2019 dominates the reverse. A Russian Imperial Eagle is included above this inscription, while a Smithsonian Sun counterstamp is included below it. That counter stamp takes the place of contemporary counter stamps that would have indicated a second or third year of tax had been paid on the originals. This face also has a wreath on the rim.

Exquisite GEM BU in OGP

This medal has an above average strike and lacks any signs of wear, which means that it is in GEM Brilliant Uncirculated condition. It comes in its original packaging from the Shire Mint. that includes a specialty capsule with a foam insert that was made to hold the uneven edge of a broadstruck token, as this is. Included in the packaging is a story card, which includes background information and a certificate of authenticity.

Add this Antiqued Copper Smithsonian Russian Beard Token Medal to your collection today.