Russian overstruck coins

[gxseries]

Been hunting these overstruck coins for a while and these can be quite uncommon to really scarce. While overstruck coins may look ugly, some are really worth a fair amount.

Here is a spoiler:



http://www.gxseries.com/numis/rus_imperial/overstrike/rus_overstruck.htm

[gxseries]

Looks like I didn't make myself clear in the first place.

The showcase of my collection of overstruck coins can be seen here: http://www.gxseries.com/numis/rus_imperial/overstrike/rus_overstruck.htm

[Figleaf]

The problem with overstrikes is that they are unattractive looking. Most collectors like their coins as unspoilt as they can get them. It's only those who are interested in financial history who appreciate overstrikes for what they are: testimony of shocking coin reform, political instability, wars, rebellion and other misfortune. By understanding both host and overstrike, you have a record of turbulence, that would not have been there if there had been time for orderly re-melting. However, students of financial history don't need actual possession of the overstrike. All they need is a solid source of information of its existence. That leaves only specialists interested...

Peter

[translateltd]

Possibly a little harsh!  I'd like to post a "thanks" for the pictures of some interesting items that we don't get to see or read very much about.  But then I've always had a soft spot for Russian copper coins, so I'm biased to start with.

[gxseries]

Kinda agree (very understandable) and disagree with Figleaf's comments. Would definitely be nice to see nicely struck examples. On the other hand, all overstrikes are struck differently due to strike pressure, original orientation of the old coin, mixture of different die elements etc. This results in overstruck coins that are unique. Some - regardless of the condition are worth a fair bit especially the 1795 2 kopek overstruck over Sadagura coin - can assure you that you will not find one anytime soon otherwise it might cost you an arm.

Reason why I chose this coin as an example is because it looks like the horse has become a pegasus - a better example of what overstrikes can look like.