11-25-2007, 02:20 PM
The Medal for Zeal was awarded for meritorious service to the Russian government, in times of war and peace. It came in 4 classes: the large gold medal, small gold medal, large silver medal, and small silver medal. The Medal for Zeal was first instituted in December 1801 during the reign of Tsar Alexander I. After the death of Tsar Alexander III the Medal was redesigned and issued around 1894 bearing the semblance of the new Sovereign, Tsar Nicholas II. The Medal was awarded to civilians that had shown exceptional zeal in the trade, production and social fields as well as to military personnel for zealous service.
SIZE: 28 mm & 50/51mm and then smaller sized at 44/45mm. Unauthenticated 51mm silver medal (3rd class)weighed at 60 grams
Three images of a Zeal Medal.
I've yet to find a serial numbered image, and the medals don't seem to have a class designation on the reverse as well.
I'd guess that one would use the size and medal material (gold or silver) to determine class ranking. All images look to be of a silver color and therefore either 3rd or 4th class examples.
The description of these medals on the internet described the first as being 31mm and made of silver, the second as being 30mm and made of white metal, and in the third image the larger being 51mm(?).
Again, none of the medals have been authenticated; images used for reference to design only.
SIZE: 28 mm & 50/51mm and then smaller sized at 44/45mm. Unauthenticated 51mm silver medal (3rd class)weighed at 60 grams
Three images of a Zeal Medal.
I've yet to find a serial numbered image, and the medals don't seem to have a class designation on the reverse as well.
I'd guess that one would use the size and medal material (gold or silver) to determine class ranking. All images look to be of a silver color and therefore either 3rd or 4th class examples.
The description of these medals on the internet described the first as being 31mm and made of silver, the second as being 30mm and made of white metal, and in the third image the larger being 51mm(?).
Again, none of the medals have been authenticated; images used for reference to design only.
"patina imparts character" - PJS
A wise man said: 'you should not pay a premium for what you want beyond your comfort level, and always ensure there is a mutually agreeable return policy.'
A wise man said: 'you should not pay a premium for what you want beyond your comfort level, and always ensure there is a mutually agreeable return policy.'
