Losnummer 1979. Alexander I (1801-1825) Russia. Pattern 10 Rubles, 1836-SPB. Bitkin-H825; Sev-424; Fr-153. By Gube. Nicholas I. Conjoined busts of Czar Nicholas I and Czarina Alexandra facing left. Reverse: Value and date within a beaded circle with legend around. Friedberg lists a mintage of 36 pieces and all were likely struck as proofs, as we believe this coin is. They were possibly intended as mementos for distribution to family and friends of the imperial court. Nicholas I acceded to the throne in 1825 after the death of his older brother Alexander I who died childless. Grand Duke Constantine, Paul I's second son, who was next in the line of succession had secretly renounced the throne in 1822 after marrying a Polish aristocrat and the resulting confusion led to a military conspiracy against Nicholas, the so-called Decembrist Uprising, which he suppressed ruthlessly. Nicholas married Frederica Louisa Charlotta Wilhelmina, daughter of King Friedrich Wilhelm III of Prussia, becoming Alexandra Feodorovna, and had seven children with her. He died on February 18, 1855 and some historians believe he committed suicide by poison after receiving news of the defeat of Russian forces at the Battle of Evpatoria during the Crimean War. This coin's designer, Heinrich Gube (his name at the truncation of the Nicholas bust) had worked in Berlin with the Loos firm and in 1830 was appointed by imperial edict to the position of Chief Engraver & Medallist at the Saint Petersburg Mint. He produced many important coins and medals during his tenure and his life like rendering of the imperial couple on this 10 Rubles attest to his considerable talent as an engraver. Extremely Rare; Bitkin R3, with 4 to 9 pieces estimated to be extant. PCGS graded MS-62. Estimated Value $50,000 - 60,000. The Dr. Robert D. Hesselgesser Collection.