RUSSIA. Merchant Navigation Silver Prize Medal, 1829 (ca. 1855-81). Alexander II. PCGS SPECIMEN-50 Gold Shield.41 mm. Diakov-626.1. Struck to commemorate the Schools of Merchant Navigation. Obverse: Bust of Tsar Alexander II facing left, legend around; Reverse: Minerva seated left, holding laurel wreath and scepter, owl below throne, ancient ship in background, two-line inscription in exergue. A well struck and moderately handled example of this strongSCARCE/strong type. Bold intricate details are present on the reverse while the obverse exhibits an expressive rendition of the czar. The surfaces are graced by light attractive grey tone with rich medium to slate grey patina in the peripherals. A neat and interesting piece sure to add depth to the next collection it enters.According to brilliant author Mikhail Diakov these medals were instituted in 1829 and awarded to graduates of the Saint-Petersburg and Kherson Merchant Navigation Schools. He goes on to say that no more than 2-4 medals were awarded annually between the two schools.
