1770 Russia 5 Kopeks

This 1770 5 kopeks coin from Catherine II's reign was struck from thick copper planchets weighing around 100 grams, making it absurdly heavy for a coin worth less than a day's bread.

That bulk served a purpose in Russia's vast provinces, where these coppers handled everyday barter without the fuss of silver. The design kept it simple: an imperial eagle on one side, the denomination on the other, all to standardize trade in a sprawling empire.

Mintage details? They're as elusive as a ruble in a peasant's pocket; records from that era often vanished in bureaucratic fires or wars. No need for tall tales here.

Some collectors grumble it's more anchor than artifact.