The Hermitage Collection of Western European Medals Reflecting Events in the History of Russia (Late Seventeenth - First Quarter of the Eighteenth Century) (E. Shchukina)

Medals connected with Russia's history, but issued abroad, form quite a significant and valuable part of the collection of commemorative medals in the Hermitage. One of the most interesting sections contains over sixty medals, dating from the end of the seventeenth and the first quarter of the eighteenth century, and produced in Italy, Holland, England, Germany, France, Sweden, and Denmark. Reflecting the events of the time from various points of view, these medals bear witness to the growing significance of Russia as a European power, to the broadening of her international links and to the consolidation of her position in the European political arena.