Sale: Triton VIII, Lot: 1723. Estimate $1500.  Closing Date: Monday, 10 January 2005.  Sold For $1075. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

RUSSIA. Sophia, as regent for Peter I and Ivan V. 1682-1689. AV Novodel 3/4 Ducat (Chervonetz) (2.76 gm, 1h). 18th century restrike of original. "By the grace of God, the ruling Lords, Czars and Princes, Ivan Alexievich and Peter Alexievich" (abbreviated), crowned facing busts of Peter and Ivan, double-headed eagle between / "And their sister, the regent, Czarina Princess Sophia Alexieva of Greater and Lesser Russia" (abbreviated), crowned three-quarter facing bust of Sophia, holding sceptre. Kaim 1858 (2/3 Chervonetz); Friedberg 59. VF. ($1500)

Kaim lists two varieties of 2/3 chervonetz pieces, which Friedberg splits into 3/4 and 2/3 denominations. Sophia was regent for her younger half-brothers Peter and the disabled Ivan until a palace revolution replaced her with the 17 year old Peter. During the regency Peter's formal education was neglected, allowing him to follow his own course, exploring, sailing and shipbuilding, military training, and a practicing of western ways (not to mention carousing). All this contributed to the great revolutions of Peter's reign.