These coins were intended as gifts to be presented during the
celebrations for Emperor Nicholas II’s coronation. The first issue
numbered 300 coins: 100 of which were presented to Emperor
Nicholas II, and 200, to his uncle, Grand Duke Vladimir Alexandrovich.
Another issue was produced later, in 1899, for Grand Duke Alexander
Mikhailovich. Although the coin features the mark of the Paris Mint ★
on its edge, the coins were minted in St Petersburg.
Imperial eagle inside beaded circle.
Circular legend:
❀ 2 ½ ИМПЕРIАЛА ❀
25 РУБЛЕЙ ЗОЛОТОМЪ. 1896 Г.
(2½ IMPERIALS ❀ 25 GOLD RUBLES. 1896)
Denticled rim.
Legend along plain edge:
ЧИСТАГО ЗОЛОТА 6 ЗОЛОТНИКОВ 77,4 ДОЛИ ★
(6 ZOLOTNIKS AND 77.4 DOLYAS OF PURE GOLD ★ )