Imperial Russian Bronze Commemorative Cross of the Crimean War, 1853–1856

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Imperial Russian Bronze Commemorative Cross of the Crimean War, 1853–1856

A rare mid-19th century Imperial Russian bronze devotional cross commemorating … Read more Imperial Russian Bronze Commemorative Cross of the Crimean War, 1853–1856

A rare mid-19th century Imperial Russian bronze devotional cross commemorating the Crimean War (1853–1856). Measuring 4 inches high by 2.25 inches wide, this solid bronze cross is struck with richly symbolic decoration. The obverse bears the dates 1853, 1854, 1855, and 1856 encircling the entwined cyphers of Tsar Nicholas I and Tsar Alexander II, surmounted by twin imperial crowns and the radiant Eye of Providence—a powerful emblem of divine oversight and dynastic continuity.

The reverse is inscribed in Church Slavonic with a verse from the Psalms: “На Тя Господи уповахомь, да не постыдимся во вѣки.” (In Thee, O Lord, have we hoped; let us never be put to shame). This prayer encapsulated the spirit of Orthodox faith and resilience in the wake of a war that proved both devastating and transformative for the Russian Empire.

Such crosses were issued not as official military decorations but as commemorative devotional tokens, distributed to soldiers, clergy, and faithful supporters in remembrance of sacrifice and service. The suspension loop indicates they could be worn, though many were cherished as keepsakes or hung near icons.

This cross stands as both a devotional object and a tangible relic of Imperial Russia, merging faith, patriotism, and history in a single form. See less