The Griboedov Affair and Khosrow Mirza's Diplomatic Visit to Russia, 1829

Diakov-474.1; ANRO-1527

Obverse: Bust of Tsar Nicholas I with the inscription "Б . М . НИКОЛАЙ I ИМПЕРАТОРЪ И САМОДЕРЖЕЦЪ ВСЕРОСС."

Reverse: Four-line Persian inscription framed by a laurel wreath, translating to "In the month Sefer 1245, his highness prince Khosrow Mirza deigned to visit the mint of his majesty emperor of all Russia." Dated "1829 . | АВГ . Д ."

Struck under authority of Nicholas I 1825-1855
Artist / Engraver: V. Alexeev
Specifications: engraver –
Gold – R5;
Silver – R3;
Bronze – R1; 65 mm, 143.63g
Reference: Diakov-474.1
Image shown: Sincona AG Auction 85 Lot 1004 (23-Oct-2023)

The Griboedov Affair of 1829 is a well-known diplomatic incident that strained relations between Russia and Persia. However, the story often overshadows a critical yet frequently overlooked aspect: the plight of two Armenian women who found themselves at the center of this diplomatic maelstrom. This essay aims to shed light on their story through the numismatic lens of a rare medal struck in 1829 to commemorate the diplomatic mission of Khosrow Mirza to Russia.

Alexander Sergeyevich Griboedov, a Russian envoy, was dispatched to Tehran in 1828 with the mission of negotiating terms following the Russo-Persian War. The mission took a tragic turn when Griboedov demanded the release of two Armenian women held against their will by a high-ranking Persian official. This demand led to a riot, culminating in the murder of Griboedov and his staff. While the affair is often framed as a diplomatic incident, it also serves as a stark reminder of the precarious status of Armenians, particularly women, in 19th-century Persia.

The two Armenian women at the heart of the affair are often relegated to footnotes in historical narratives. However, their story is far from insignificant; it is emblematic of the broader struggles faced by the Armenian community in Persia during this period. Subject to religious discrimination and social marginalization, Armenian women were particularly vulnerable to forced conversions and marriages. Griboedov's demand for their release was not merely a diplomatic maneuver but a human rights intervention that brought to light the plight of Armenians in Persia.

The Treaty of Turkmenchay, which concluded the Russo-Persian War, had far-reaching implications for the Armenian community. Among its clauses was the provision for the repatriation of Armenians living in Persia to Russian territory. This set the stage for Russia's role as a protector of Christian minorities in the region, including Armenians. The plight of the two Armenian women serves as a catalyst that tested the limits of this newfound Russian influence and protection.

For those interested in Armenian numismatics, the Griboedov Affair Medal holds a unique place. Struck in 1829 to commemorate Khosrow Mirza's diplomatic mission to Russia, the medal serves as a physical artifact that encapsulates a complex moment in history. More than just a collector's item, it offers a numismatic lens through which we can explore the complex interplay of geopolitics, human rights, and the often-overlooked narratives of marginalized communities like the Armenians.

In conclusion, the Griboedov Affair Medal offers a unique opportunity to delve into the struggles and challenges faced by Armenians in 19th-century Persia. While the medal itself commemorates a diplomatic mission, its very existence opens a window into a significant but often overlooked chapter of Armenian history. As we examine this medal, we are reminded that numismatics is not merely the study of coins and medals but also a powerful tool for understanding the complex tapestry of human history.


by Aram Manasaryan