2 Kopek

Curated Russian Imperial copper coin, believed to be a 2 Kopek issue of the Russian Empire, likely struck during the reign of Empress Catherine II (Catherine the Great). Despite extensive corrosion and environmental damage, the coin retains visible traces of the iconic Saint George on horseback slaying the dragon, one of the most enduring symbols of Russian imperial coinage and the historic arms of Moscow.
The opposite side appears to preserve remnants of the imperial monogram and decorative elements characteristic of eighteenth-century Russian copper coinage. Significant surface corrosion, mineral encrustation, and metal loss are present, consistent with long-term burial or prolonged exposure to harsh environmental conditions. Such characteristics are frequently encountered on detector finds and archaeological recoveries from the Russian Imperial period.
Large copper kopeks of Catherine II circulated extensively throughout the Russian Empire during a period of territorial expansion, economic development, and administrative reform. These coins passed through countless hands across Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, the Baltic provinces, Poland, and other regions that formed part of the empire during the late eighteenth century.
While the exact mintmark is no longer clearly visible, coins of this type were commonly produced at major imperial mints including Ekaterinburg, often bearing the "EM" mintmark. The surviving design elements remain sufficient to identify the coin as a historic Russian Imperial copper issue and an authentic relic of the Catherine II era.
This specimen is offered primarily as a historical artifact and research piece rather than a condition rarity. Its extensive wear and corrosion reflect centuries of history and use, making it an interesting example for collectors of Russian numismatics, detector finds, archaeological artifacts, imperial copper coinage, and eighteenth-century European monetary history.
An authentic Russian Imperial copper coin attributed to the 2 Kopek series of Catherine II, featuring surviving traces of Saint George slaying the dragon. A fascinating historical survivor from the age of the Russian Empire and one of Europe's most influential monarchs.

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