RUSSIA. 50 Kopecks, 1914-BC. Sev-4185; Y-58. Nicholas II. Exquisite neon-blue and bright magenta-gold iridescent toning, the head of the Czar frosted. NGC graded Proof 65.
Estimate Value $1,000-UP
Ex Irving Goodman Sale, Feb 1991, Lot 1597.
This wonderfully preserved specimen was minted at one of the most troubled of times in modern Russia's history, for it was in the summer of 1914 that war was declared on Germany following the assassination in June of Austria's Archduke Ferdinand. When the heir to the Hapsburg throne was killed, Austria threatened Serbia with an ultimatum, leaving its ally, Russia, with no alternative--either declare war or accept total defeat in the Balkans. Within two months, all of Europe had taken sides, and the world was at war.
Estimated Value $1,000-UP.
