Saint George the Victorious Russian Bullion Coin (2007)
Coin/Bullion · The Saint George the Victorious is issued by the Bank of Russia (Central Bank of the Russian Federation) and minted at the Moscow Mint (MMD) or Saint Petersburg Mint (SPMD).
Pattern: Saint George the Victorious Investment Coin Series, introduced in 2006 for gold and 2009 for silver (Note: The 2007 date in this image refers to a specific mintage year primarily of the gold variety or commemorative issues).
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
The Saint George the Victorious is issued by the Bank of Russia (Central Bank of the Russian Federation) and minted at the Moscow Mint (MMD) or Saint Petersburg Mint (SPMD).
Material
.999 Fine Silver (investments) or .900 gold. Standard silver bullion version contains 31.1 grams (1 troy oz) of pure silver. This specific specimen appears to be the silver investment strike.
Dimensions
Standard silver bullion size: Diameter of 39.00 mm, Thickness of 3.10 mm, Weight of 31.1 grams (1 troy oz).
Description
This is a prominent Russian investment coin featuring the iconic image of Saint George the Victorious. The design is based on the traditional image of the saint as found on the Moscow coat of arms and historical Russian kopecks. It represents one of the most liquid silver assets in Eastern Europe, combining religious iconography with high-purity precious metal.
Key Features
The dynamic depiction of Saint George's spear pointing downward at the dragon; the Cyrillic 'БАНК РОССИИ' lettering; the high relief of the horse's musculature.
Material & Composition
.999 Fine Silver (investments) or .900 gold. Standard silver bullion version contains 31.1 grams (1 troy oz) of pure silver. This specific specimen appears to be the silver investment strike.
Finish & Decoration
Uncirculated/Bullion finish with a proof-like luster. The obverse features Saint George on horseback slaying a dragon with a spear. The reverse (not shown) typically features the Double-Headed Eagle, the emblem of the Bank of Russia.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscribed 'БАНК РОССИИ' (Bank of Russia) and '2007'. Reverse side would typically feature the 'Ag 999' purity mark, the weight '31.1', and the mint mark (MМД or спмд).
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck at a national mint using high-pressure hydraulic presses to ensure crisp detail and uniform weight.
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent clipping or filing of the precious metal; legal tender status in Russia with a face value (typically 3 Rubles for silver).
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard coin form).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial minting; excellent die-alignment and consistent edge reeding. The frosted finish on the raised elements against the semi-reflective field indicates a high-grade bullion strike.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the Cyrillic lettering; specific spacing between the horse's legs and the dragon; consistent '2007' typeface; lack of casting bubbles or surface pitting common in counterfeits.
Origin & Manufacturing
Russia; Moscow or Saint Petersburg Mint, following the centuries-old tradition of Russian imperial coinage.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Post-Soviet Russia); specifically the early 21st-century bullion market expansion.
Age Estimate
Dated 2007; minted during the 2007 calendar year.
Cultural Significance
Represents the fusion of Orthodox Christian tradition and modern sovereign finance. Saint George is the patron saint of Moscow and a symbol of the victory of good over evil.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (BU). Visible light surface scratches and 'bag marks' consistent with bullion handling. No evidence of heavy circulation or cleaning. Tarnish is minimal.
Value Estimate
Spot price of 1 oz silver plus a numismatic/mint premium of $5–$15 USD, totaling approximately $35–$45 USD depending on current market fluctuations.
Care & Maintenance
Store in an airtight PVC-free capsule to prevent oxidation (toning). Avoid cleaning with abrasives; if necessary, use a dip specific for 999 silver. Handle by the edges using cotton gloves to avoid milk spots from finger oils.
Similar Pieces
American Silver Eagle (similar weight/purity but US origin), Austrian Philharmonic (999 silver, different motif), Russian 'Sower' coins (historical predecessor).
Interesting Facts
Saint George has been a symbol of Russia since the 13th century. This coin was introduced to replace the 'Sower' gold ducats and provide a Russian alternative to the American Silver Eagle or South African Krugerrand.