Russia Tin-Alloy Educational Award Medal (Novodel late 18th – early 19th century) - St. Petersburg Imperial Academy of Arts - Catherine II (1762–1796)

42.61g. 53mm. UNC/UNC. 

Medalier: Johann Christian G. Jaeger (obverse, I • С • I • above the exergue left). 

Diakov 129.2 (Ar - R3). 

In the Russian Empire, tin-lead alloy medals were primarily produced for collectors and educational use. The soft metal reduced wear on dies, making it ideal for limited or repeat strikes, while also lowering production costs. These medals were well-suited for study collections and displays, and offered collectors a more affordable way to acquire rare types with preserved visual and historical detail. 

Obv.: A male figure posing as a model; to the right, his relief portrait on an easel; to the left, a bust of a young man. 

Inscription around: 

СЛѢДУЯ ДОСТИГНЕШЬ 

(Follow, and you will achieve). 

Below the exergue: 

С • П • Б • ÏМПЕР • АКАД • ХУДОЖ • | 17** Г • IЮНIЯ • 28 • Д • 

(St. Petersburg Imperial Academy of Arts. 17** June 28th day). 

Above the exergue left: 

I • С • I • 

(Initials of J.C.G. Jaeger). 

Rev.: Laurel wreath encircling three raised bands for engraving the recipient’s name; above, a ribbon with the motto. 

Inscription on ribbon: 

ПРИБЛИЖАЮЩЕМУСЯ 

(To the one approaching [excellence]). 

This medal was awarded by the Imperial Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg to outstanding students for academic achievement and mastery in the visual arts. Founded in 1757 and reorganized under Catherine II, the Academy played a central role in shaping Russian neoclassical art and producing generations of painters, sculptors, and architects. The allegorical design underscores the classical ideals of diligent study and artistic imitation as the path to creative excellence. The model and bust symbolize observation and technique, while the inscription encourages perseverance in the pursuit of artistic perfection.