I have a 1774 Rouble and it's been authenticated by Spink but not sure of the grade, though looks impressive in the hand and my camera isn't great. Although it has wear on the high aspects of the hair, I saw an AU58 with similar wear of the top of the head. The ringlets look great. One consultant said VF+ in UK standards, which I imagine is about XF45, possible AU50 on the Sheldon scale. Anyway, as it's my coin I am more likely to be biased. Informed views about these type of coins would really be appreciated. Happy Easter.
A bit hard to tell. Would be nice to have better photos. The wear on these coins are often on St George followed by the wings, Queens' hair. Nevertheless, any true Russian collectors would know how difficult it is to find such early ruble coins in XF+ and onwards. Something that I can only dream of as my collection is too diversified.
I've always wondered about the grading standards that are used with world coinage. Whereas with US issues we have generally accepted standards regarding wear on the high points of the coin, etc, I get the feeling that the major grading services are a bit less constrained when it comes to the world series.
Sorry, but Your coin is worse than the majority presented by me. And I think, you need not glasses to see it. You have a quite good coin. But in Russia there is a lot of such coins. But I respect your feelings. And it is pleasant to me that the Englishman is interested in the Russian coins.
Why not post better photos instead of insulting people's eyesight? I'm sure a camera that is potentially cheaper than the coin's value takes much better resolution. I don't disagree with Siberian Man's opinion given the current photos. I suppose offering to pay for people's glasses is another option too.
I would call it VF35. Not a trace of luster takes it out of the XF category. I miss Russian coin stores. Spent a lot of time in St. Petersburg between 1993 and 2000, and back in the early 1990s could buy these types of coins for almost nothing when converted to US dollars. A decent Paul I silver Rouble with nice rims and about-VF for wear was $10.