The Coinage of Russia 1751–1754
RUSSIA IN THE early 1750s was in the lull before the storm. Peter the Great, who ruled from 1682 to 1725, long dreamed that his country would become a force to reckon with in European politics. It was not until late in the reign of the Empress Elizabeth (1741–1761) that this was to come true.
Prussian King Frederick II (1740–1786) had great territorial ambitions but these clashed with powerful neighbors. One such enemy was Britain, whose possessions in Germany (Hanover) were a source of contention. King George II of England (1727–1760) went to great lengths to sign on Russia in an anti-Prussian coalition to save Hanover from becoming part of Frederick’s domain.
Both France and Prussia strongly contested the English attempt to convert the Russians, via the payment of very large bribes, and block the British. In a sudden about-face, however, the English came to an agreement with Frederick, further confusing the situation. In due course Austria, Russia, and France were to be aligned against Britain and Prussia. The Seven Years’ War erupted in 1756 and was to affect Russia, and its coinage, very much.
In the meantime, domestic considerations in Russia plagued the Empress. The financial
