1988 Soviet Union 3 Ruble Silver Coin, St. Sophia Cathedral Commemorative Proof Silver Coin

 This is a 3-ruble silver coin issued in the Soviet Union in 1988, belonging to the "Christianization of Rus'" series commemorating the 1000th anniversary of Russian architecture. The theme is St. Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv, and it features a dignified design commemorating the historical building constructed in 1037. It is a large silver coin with a silver purity of .900, weighing 34.56g and with a diameter of 39mm, and was issued as a highly collectible proof coin.

 The obverse is engraved with the Soviet Union's coat of arms, the denomination "3 РУБЛЯ", the year of issue "1988", the silver purity "Ag 900", and the amount of pure silver "32.1". The reverse features a detailed depiction of the St. Sophia Cathedral complex, surrounded by the inscriptions "1000-летие древнерусского зодчества (1000th anniversary of ancient Russian architecture)" and "Софийский собор・Киев・1037г. (St. Sophia Cathedral, Kyiv, 1037)".

 With an estimated mintage of 35,000 pieces, this commemorative silver coin from the late Soviet era is highly sought after for its combination of religious, architectural, and historical themes. It is recommended for collectors of Russian, Soviet, and Eastern European architecture, religious architecture, and commemorative silver coins.

 specification

 The issuing country is the Soviet Union, the year of issue is 1988, and the face value is 3 rubles. The material is silver with a purity of .900, the weight is 34.56g, the diameter is 39mm, and the thickness is approximately 3.3mm. The shape is circular, the edge is led-edge, and the coin is oriented according to medal alignment. The purpose of issue was to commemorate the "1000th anniversary of Russian architecture," and the series is "Christianization of Rus'."

 The obverse features the Soviet Union's coat of arms, the face value, the year of issue, and the "MMD" marking the Moscow Mint. The reverse depicts St. Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv. The mint is the Moscow Mint, and the reference number is Y#210. Only 35,000 were issued, and they are proof coins.

 History and background

 1988 marked a significant milestone: the 1000th anniversary of Kievan Rus' adoption of Christianity. To commemorate this year, the Soviet Union issued commemorative coins on themes of religion, architecture, and cultural history. This particular coin is a silver coin featuring St. Sophia Cathedral, a representative example of ancient Russian architecture.

 St. Sophia Cathedral is an important religious building constructed during the Kievan Rus' era in the 11th century, and is a symbol of East Slavic culture and Christianization. While influenced by Byzantine architecture, it possesses a unique East Slavic architectural beauty and had a significant influence on church architecture in later periods in Russia, Ukraine, and Eastern Europe.

 Issued in the final years of the Soviet Union, this commemorative silver coin is not merely a face value coin, but a highly significant commemorative item themed around historical architecture and religious culture. The large silver coin features a detailed architectural design, making it a visually impressive piece among Soviet commemorative coins and a collector's item that allows you to appreciate its historical context.

 FAQ

 Is this coin a silver coin?
 Yes. It's a silver coin with a silver purity of .900. Its weight is 34.56g, and the amount of pure silver is approximately 31.1g.

 What year was it published?
 The year of issue is 1988. "1988" is engraved on the bottom of the front.

 What is the face value?
 The face value is 3 rubles. The front reads "3 РУБЛЯ".

 What does this coin commemorate?
 This silver coin commemorates the 1000th anniversary of ancient Russian architecture, and the reverse side depicts St. Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv. The series is titled "Christianization of Rus'."

 Is this coin proof?
 Yes. It is a commemorative silver coin issued as proof. It features a mirror finish and intricate relief engraving.

 How many copies were issued?
 The mintage is said to be 35,000 pieces. This is a reasonable number for a Soviet-era commemorative silver coin, striking a balance between collectibility and rarity.

 Where is the mint located?
 It was manufactured at the Moscow Mint. The obverse side bears the marking "MMD," which indicates the Moscow Mint.

 How should I store it?
 Silver coins may change color or tarnish due to moisture and air exposure. Store them in their capsules, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures and humidity. Fingerprints may be left if you touch the surface directly, so we recommend using coin gloves when handling them.