Postal & Live Internet Auction 686 (Part B)

RUSSIA: Set of bronze and silver-plated medals featuring Admiral Orlov and commemorating the victory of the naval battle of Chesme which took place 5/7 July 1770 in Cesme bay between Anatolia and Chios island. It was a part of the Orlov Revolt of 1769, a precursor to the later Greek War of Independence (1821–29), and the first of a number of disastrous fleet battles for the Ottomans against Russia. Engraved by J.B. Gass. Obv: Half-length of Admiral Orlov in helmet and plumes, uniform and order, holding a baton in his extended right hand. Ribbon of St Andrew over right shoulder. Legend in Russian (Count Alexis Grigorovich Orlov, victor and destroyer of the Turkish fleet). Rev: Plan of the action showing the position of the fleets and the surrounding land inscribed with the names of the places. Legend in Russian (And there was in Russia joy and gladness). Diameter of each medal: 92mm. Weight of the bronze medal: 227gr. Weight of the silver plated medal: 262,9gr. Very Fine. Rare medals!