Imperial Russia – Order of St. Anne – 3rd Class in Gold – Maker “AK” (Albert Keibel), ca. 1900
A superb and original example of the Imperial Russian Order of St. Anne, 3rd Class, executed in solid 14K gold (hallmarked “56”) by the renowned Imperial Court jeweler Albert Keibel, St. Petersburg. A beautiful piece of pre-revolutionary Russian craftsmanship awarded for distinguished military or civil service.
Historical Background
Instituted on February 14, 1735, by Duke Karl Friedrich of Holstein, the Order of St. Anne was incorporated into the Russian awards system in 1797 by Emperor Paul I. It was awarded in four grades for meritorious service in civil or military roles. The 3rd Class was typically worn on the left breast with a bow ribbon.
Medal Details
Type: Order of St. Anne – 3rd Class
Maker: Albert Keibel (AK) – Imperial Court Jeweler, St. Petersburg
Material: Solid 14K Gold, translucent guilloché red enamel
Dimensions: Approx. 38.90 mm x 34.54 mm
Obverse Center: Miniature hand-painted portrait of St. Anne
Reverse Center: White medallion with blue imperial cypher
Ribbon: Type triangular red ribbon with yellow edges
Hallmarks:
“56” (14K gold standard)
St. Petersburg city mark on reverse of integral ring
Russian coat of arms on the top arm
Maker’s mark “AK” on lower reverse arm
Condition & Observations
Very good condition overall
Enamels are fully intact on both sides – no chips, cracks, or repairs
All hallmarks and maker’s marks are clearly legible
Ribbon is clean and properly folded, with light signs of age
A rare and highly collectible original example of an Imperial Russian decoration, especially in gold by a prestigious maker
Please message me with any questions or for additional close-up photos