Russia Copper Beard Token (Beard Kopeck) ҂АѰЕ (1705) without counterstamp - Novodel - Peter I the Great (1682-1725)

4.01g. 23mm. AU/AU. Beautiful example with good relief details and dry yellow-brown color patina. Since examples without the countermark are extremely rare, specimens lacking it were struck at the mint for collectors. 

Bitkin (tokens) 3896 R3; Rudenko Б.11.н R2. 

Very rare! 

The "beard token", or “beard kopeck,” was a metal token issued as a receipt for payment of the special tax on wearing a beard and, also in the 18th century, they were also used as a means of payment, which likely gave rise to this second name. 

The beard token of 1705 was introduced under the decree of 16 (27) January 1705 as proof of payment of the beard tax imposed by Peter I. It is a small copper, coin-like piece approximately the size of a kopek, bearing the inscription “ДЕНГИ ВЗѦТЫ” (“Money received”) with a depiction of a beard and moustache, and on the reverse the double-headed eagle with the date in Cyrillic numerals. 

The tax applied to various social groups at different rates and was intended to enforce Westernizing reforms by discouraging the wearing of traditional beards. Upon payment, individuals received such a token as confirmation, which had to be presented when required. Peasants were exempt from the annual tax but paid a small fee upon entering cities. 

Examples of 1705 are known both in standard form and with countermarks, likely applied to extend their period of use. Two principal die varieties are recorded, including types with broad and narrow beard designs.