Lot #618: Rare Russia 1812 Two Kopeck Coin - Double-Headed "Drooping Wings" Eagle - Czar Alexander I - Over 210 years old!

The Obverse features the Double-headed Eagle of the Russian Empire, but in a specific heraldic style known as the "Drooping Wings" eagle. Unlike later versions where the wings are raised, this eagle's wings are spread horizontally and curved downward. The eagle holds a bundle of thunderbolts (lightning) and a torch in its right talon and a laurel wreath in its left. On its breast is the shield of St. George, and above its heads is a single large Imperial Crown. The date 1812 below the eagle's tail. The Reverse displays the denomination 2 КОПЕЙКИ (2 Kopecks) centered at the top. Below the denomination is a decorative horizontal line, and at the bottom is the mint mark. The design is framed by a wreath—laurel on the left and oak on the right—tied at the bottom with a ribbon. The Russia 1812 Two Kopecks was issued during the reign of Czar Alexander I. This coin is famously known among collectors as a "War Year" issue, struck while the Russian Empire was engaged in the Napoleonic Wars and facing the French invasion. It belongs to the "Eagle with Drooping Wings" type, a design standard that was used during a period of significant economic and military upheaval. Because of the wartime conditions, these coins are often found with "weak" strikes or planchet defects. Historically, these coins were the primary currency used to pay Russian soldiers and were in circulation when the French Grand Armée retreated from Moscow. Dimensions: Copper. 30.0 mm. 13.6 g. Pickup category timeslot {A}