Russia is the only country to strike platinum coins for circulation. The word platinum is a derivative of the Spanish platina, which means "little silver" and at first glance the two are visually similar. This similarity would be a factor in its eventual failure as a circulation coinage in Russia.

The discovery of platinum in the Urals of Western Siberia resulted in the production of three new Russian decimal coinage denominations. By the imperial decree of April 24, 1828, platinum coinage was initiated for circulation; however, the initial minting was only of the 3 Ruble denomination. The decree authorizing the production of 6 and 12 Rubles came later. The planchet size for this issue was consistent in diameter to that of the silver Poltina (1/2 Ruble). The minting of platinum coinage in 19th century Russia was very limited and for a period of less than two decades. The new coinage denominations were not well received by the public, as they their pale white metal was unfamiliar in circulation.

In 1845, an imperial decree ordered the minting of platinum coinage to cease. Simultaneously, the existing pieces were ordered to be recalled within a six month period. In this way much of the original mintages were redeemed and destroyed, accounting for their rarity today. The six-month period was too short for all the platinum issues to be redeemed and destroyed, and it is largely responsible for the examples known today.

The obverse design for this platinum 6 Ruble features a large motif of the Imperial Coat of Arms: the Imperial double headed eagle, each head crowned with a third crown and banner above. The left claw holds a scepter, representing monarchial power, and the globus cruciger in the right claw demonstrates the religious authority of the emperor. The Order of Saint Andrew, the highest honorary order in Imperial Russia, appears around the arms of Moscow showing Saint George mounted and defeating the dragon.

The central inscription states: "6 Rubles per Silver" this wording was used to link this platinum series to the familiar silver ruble. Just below this inscription appear the overdate of 1831/0 and the St. Petersburg mintmark. This is the only example of an overdate certified by either grading service. The bottom of the "0" is clearly evident beneath the "1", with the top of the"1" extending well above the tops of the other digits in the date. Well struck, especially given the hardness of the metal, the details in St. George as he slays the dragon are simply phenomenal. Prooflike fields accentuate the frosty white devices and add to the appeal of this fabulous Russian rarity.

Look for this and other world numismatic rarities in our upcoming August ANA World's Fair of Money Auction.

To read the complete article, see:
Mint State Imperial Russian Platinum 6 Ruble Overdate (www.stacksbowers.com/NewsMedia/Blogs/TabId/780/ArtMID/
2678/ArticleID/65167/Mint-State-Imperial-Russian-Platinum-6-Ruble-Overdate.aspx)