Jacob Reichel: Medallist, Collector, Scholar

On 27 December, 2002, in the Numismatic Gallery (Rooms No. 398-400) was opened an exhibition prepared by the State Hermitage Museum together with the Library of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Central National Archive of History in St. Petersburg, Goznak Paper Works and St. Petersburg Mint.

The show marks the 150th anniversary of the New Hermitage where was displayed an exhibition of coins and medals from the Muenzkabinett. The new exhibition is dedicated to the acquisition by the Hermitage of the numismatic collection put together by J.J. Reichel, a major collector, medallist and designer of the St. Petersburg Mint (1760-1856).

Over 400 pieces from his collection are displayed. Since the 1820s, Jacob Reichel collected Russian and West European coins and medals which he purchased at international auctions and from famous Russian and European numismatists. In 1851, when the New Hermitage was opened, Emperor Nicholas I purchased Reichel's collection of Russian coins and medals (4,712 pieces). The remaining part of the collection, 41,875 West European coins and medals and Oriental and Ancient coins, was purchased by the Hermitage from Reichel's heirs in 1856-1857. Along with coins and medals, the exhibition shows documents pertaining to J.J. Reichel's work at the St. Petersburg Mint and the Department of Official Papers.

On the exhibition's occasion the St. Petersburg Mint issued a commemorative medal designed by A.D. Shchablykin.

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Georgy V. Vilinbakhov, Deputy Director Research of the State Hermitage Museum opening the exhibition

At the exhibition