Bank of Russia Saint George the Victorious Sterling Silver Investment Coin (3 Rubles, 2007)
Coin/Bullion (Investment Coin) · The Central Bank of the Russian Federation (Bank of Russia), minted by either the Moscow Mint (MMD) or Saint Petersburg Mint (SPMD). Both mints are historically state-owned entities with centuries of craftsmanship heritage.
Pattern: Saint George the Victorious Investment Series (Georgy Pobedonosets). Introduced in 2006 to replace the gold Chervonets, with the silver version beginning in 2009 (Note: While this specific image shows a 2007 date, the standard silver denomination is 3 Rubles).
Type
Coin/Bullion (Investment Coin)
Maker
The Central Bank of the Russian Federation (Bank of Russia), minted by either the Moscow Mint (MMD) or Saint Petersburg Mint (SPMD). Both mints are historically state-owned entities with centuries of craftsmanship heritage.
Material
Standard series consists of .999 Fine Silver. No base metals used. Total silver content for this series is typically 31.1 grams (1 troy ounce).
Dimensions
Diameter: 39.00 mm. Thickness: 3.10 mm. Weight: 31.1 grams (1.00 troy ounce).
Description
A striking example of Russian investment silver, this coin depicts the iconic image of Saint George the Victorious. The reverse features Saint George mounted on a horse, mid-strike as he lances a dragon, a symbol deeply ingrained in Russian heraldry and Orthodox tradition. The matte finish of the relief contrasts sharply with the reflective fields, creating a dynamic visual of light and shadow. As an investment piece, it carries the full weight and backing of the Bank of Russia, serving as both a financial asset and a miniature work of sculptural art.
Key Features
The 'М' or 'СП' mint mark on the obverse; the specific 2007 date; the .999 fine silver content; the iconic dragon-slaying motif; the reeded edge.
Material & Composition
Standard series consists of .999 Fine Silver. No base metals used. Total silver content for this series is typically 31.1 grams (1 troy ounce).
Finish & Decoration
Uncirculated / Proof-like finish. The obverse features the emblem of the Bank of Russia (double-headed eagle) and the reverse (shown) features Saint George the Victorious on horseback slaying a dragon with a spear. The design is based on the 15th-century icon.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse features the inscription 'БАНК РОССИИ' (Bank of Russia) and the year '2007'. The obverse (not shown) would contain the purity 'Ag 999', the weight '31,1', the denomination (3 Rubles), and the Mint Mark (lettering under the eagle's claw).
Construction Details
Machine-struck by a hydraulic press using high-quality precision dies on a prepared silver planchet. The edges are finished with a reeded pattern (corrugated with 300 grooves).
Functional Features
Legal tender in the Russian Federation. Serrated edges to prevent 'clipping' of the metal. High-relief imagery to deter counterfeiting.
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard coin form intended for handling by edges or encapsulated storage.
Craftsmanship Details
High-precision die-struck quality; the musculature of the horse and the texture of the dragon's scales show exceptional detail for a bullion-grade coin. The fields are clear of planchet flaws, indicating tight quality control at the mint.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic luster of fine silver; precise, sharp lettering in Cyrillic; consistent dimensions and weight; specific 'die-flow' marks typical of genuine Bank of Russia strikes; accurate depiction of the spear's tip.
Origin & Manufacturing
Russia (Moscow or Saint Petersburg). Minted at federal facilities using modern automated striking technology to ensure exact weight and purity.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Modern Investment Era (Post-Soviet Russia). High production began in various dates since 2006 to provide citizens a means of physical silver investment.
Age Estimate
Modern (Specifically struck in 2007 as indicated by the date on the reverse).
Cultural Significance
The image of Saint George is part of the State Coat of Arms of the Russian Federation and the Coat of Arms of Moscow. It represents the triumph of good over evil and connects modern currency to the foundational history of the Russian state.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in 'Brilliant Uncirculated' condition with no visible scratches, dings, or tarnish (milk spots). There are no signs of circulation wear on the high points of the horse's musculature or the saint's cape.
Value Estimate
$30 - $45 USD based on the current spot price of silver plus a premium. Collector value may increase if graded by NGC or PCGS.
Care & Maintenance
Handle only by the edges using lint-free cotton gloves. Store in an airtight acrylic capsule or PVC-free plastic flip to prevent 'milk spots' (white clouding) and oxidation. Do not clean with abrasives or chemicals, as it destroys the numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
United States Silver Eagle (US Mint), Canadian Silver Maple Leaf (Royal Canadian Mint), Austrian Silver Philharmonic. Within Russia, the 'Sable' (Sobol) silver coin was the predecessor before Saint George became the standard.
Interesting Facts
Saint George is the patron saint of Moscow. While gold versions were minted from 2006, the silver 3-ruble version became one of the most widely held silver investment coins in Eastern Europe. The design is intentional in its simplicity to lower production costs compared to proof collector coins.