A Russian field marshal’s baton sold for $903,500 in Christie’s October 19 auction of the C. Ruxton and Audrey B. Love collection.

The rare jeweled, enamel and gold baton, marked Keibel, St Petersburg, appears to be the only Nineteenth Century example still in existence, one of three made in 1878 during the reign of Alexander II (1855-1881).

Anthony Phillips, director of Christie’s international silver department, commented, “The bidding was truly international and it is remarkable that nine out of the top ten lots were purchased by European or American private collectors.

“In many ways the Loves’ taste was very advanced for the period in which they were collecting and proved exceptionally attractive to the present day market.”

Prices reported include buyer’s premium.