RUSSIA. Gymnasium Silver Medal, 1911. By A. Griliches, Jr. Nicholas II. NGC MS-63.70 mm. Diakov-1516.1 (R4). Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first male gymnasium in Kiev. Obverse: Jugate heads of Nicholas II, bare, and Alexander I, laureate, left; Reverse: Angel standing facing, head slightly right, holding sword and shield; implements of science at his feet; gymnasium in background; crowned imperial eagle below; all within wreath. An exceptionally choice piece, yielding lustrous matte surfaces and a growing iridescence at the peripheries. Rather RARE, with no examples other than the present specimen able to be located in auctions.Not to be confused with the American English use of the word, which presents an idea of sports and athletics, the gymnasia in Europe generally denote academics and higher learning. In this context, the subject of this medal relates to the establishment of an all male preparatory academy.
