In copper ("dark bronze"); measures 33.4 in height incl. eyelet, 27.9 mm wide; weighs 12.1 grams not including the jump ring and ribbon.

In outstanding, excellent condition. The raised details on both sides are exceptionally well-preserved and crisp, practically pristine. The medal has only some microscopic contact marks and is completely free of any wear visible to the naked eye. The copper has acquired a beautiful even mahogany tone, while the original mint luster is still clearly visible in recessed areas throughout. There is a tiny amount of embedded dust around the lettering which is not detractive in the least and should clean off easily if desired. There are no blemishes, pitting or significant oxidation spots.

The medal comes with a jump ring which appears to be of the period and is probably original to the medal. Also included is a perfectly preserved original Romanov ribbon in moiré silk measuring approximately 14 cm (5.5") long and 2.5 mm wide. Note that it is not only of the Imperial period, but is actually contemporary to the medal: it is of paler shade and slightly different texture than those from the late XIX - early XX C. The ribbon is nicely preserved, sound and presentable, showing only a very minimal amount of soiling which does not detract.

This superb example of the Polish Rebellion medal in dark bronze is the best we've had in many years - if not ever - and in our opinion, practically impossible to upgrade.

The dark bronze medal was awarded to non-combatants in the military and the civilians who assisted in the campaign. The number of dark bronze medals struck at the mint was significantly smaller than that of the combatant version in light bronze, 231.221 vs. 368.133.

/Dimitri Romanov, The Orders, Medals and History of Imperial Russia, pp. 184-185/; Mikhail Diakov, Medals of the Russian Empire, Part 5, 1855-1881, p. 132/.