Description
Basic Information
• Country: Russian Empire
• Denomination: 1/2 Kopeck
• Year: 1897
• Ruler: Nicholas II
• Composition: Copper
• Color: Brown (BN)
• Weight: ~1.64 g
• Diameter: ~16 mm
• Edge: Plain
• Mint: Usually struck at St. Petersburg Mint
Design
Obverse
• Imperial double-headed eagle of the Russian Empire.
• Crown above the eagle symbolizing the monarchy.
• Detailed imperial coat of arms on the chest.
Reverse
• The denomination “½ КОПѢЙКИ” (Half Kopeck in old Russian spelling).
• Year 1897 below.
• Surrounded by a wreath of laurel and oak branches tied with a ribbon.
Historical Context
• Minted during the reign of Nicholas II (1894–1917), the last Russian Tsar.
• These small copper coins were used for everyday low-value transactions in the late Russian Imperial economy.
• Production lasted until the early 20th century before the fall of the empire after the Russian Revolution.
Your Coin’s Grade (on the holder)
• VF-30 (Very Fine) – moderate wear but major details remain clear.
• BN (Brown) – natural brown copper color.
• Graded by MEGA – Middle East Grading Alliance.
Approximate Market Value (VF30 BN)
• Typically $10 – $25 USD depending on eye appeal and demand.
• Higher grades (XF–UNC) can reach $40–$120+.