Paul I 10 Kopeks

Paul I's 10 kopeks coin was struck with his portrait, a design choice that lasted only as long as his reign—less than five years.

This silver piece, valued at 10 kopeks, came from the Saint Petersburg mint. It followed the standard of the time, weighing around 2.69 grams and measuring 19 millimeters across. Records show variations in die quality, possibly due to rushed production.

We don't know the exact mintage figures; those details burned in the 1838 fire at the mint archives. What survives are the coins themselves, often found in worn condition from circulation.

Paul's obsession with order extended to his currency, mandating straight edges on some issues to prevent clipping. As for humor, well, it's no surprise these coins turned up scarce—much like his policies.