The 2010 50 Ruble Republic of Belarus Eagle is comprised of 1.4 ounces of gold with a diamond eye type accent. Its surface is flawless with a vibrant golden luster and excellent detail, an outstanding display of Belarusian coinage. About 2000 coins were minted in total.

Background

The Republic of Belarus is part of Eastern Europe and is bordered by Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Latvia and Lithuania. Before the 20^th century, it was the site of multiple states such as the Russian Empire, Kievan Rus, Polish-Lithuania Commonwealth and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

Belarus had the distinction of being one of few nations that never issued coins, which was due to inflation challenges that they suffered since their independence. By July of 1990 the Soviet Supreme Belarusian SSR issued a state sovereignty declaration which enabled them to issue banknotes.

By 1994 the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus decided that the country’s Belarusian ruble would become the primary legal tender. Although the nation was now independent, there was a close association between the Belarusian and Russian financial systems. Seven banknote denominations were introduced, with the largest note having a face value of 500 rubles.

While paper currency is important, metallic coinage is a necessity for any country and as such Belarus issued eight coin denominations with the largest being 50 kopecks. While paper and especially electronic funds are widely used throughout the nation, physical coinage still plays a role in monetary circulation.

Physical coinage was first introduced in 1996, and includes commemoratives. Much of this coinage was struck by the native designers who used geometric ornaments as a form of decoration. While most of these coins were made from base metals, the government decided to issue a high end gold coin to promote national pride.

Coin Highlights

This 2010 50 Ruble gold coin features the Eurasian Eagle Owl, a bird which inhabits both Belarus and much of the northern Eurasia. It is one of the world’s largest owls although the males are slightly smaller than females. The bird is known for its unique ear tufts, with the upper region being covered in dark coloring. Both the tail and wings are barred and it can be found in diverse regions such as mountains, woodlands and wetlands.

On the coin’s obverse side a relief can be seen in the center which depicts the Republic of Belarus Coat of Arms inside a geometric ornament which is circular, along with information on the alloy standard, issue year, and various circumferential inscriptions in the Belarusian language.

This is one of the first gold coins issued by the country and has tremendous historical as well as collection value. It has reeded edges and is sold in a Brilliant Uncirculated condition. It also has a PR-70 based Deep Cameo grade designation with a gold purity of .999.