Russian President Vladimir Putin’s controversial 2014 decree that cleared the way for the annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, which still draws international outrage, is going on the auction block.
The personally signed order tucked neatly into an ornate leather binder could bring as much as $8,000-$10,000, according to Alexander Historical Auctions, hosting the online auction Nov. 19-21.
Alexander Auctions President Bill Panagopulos described his unusual item this way:
An historic modern Russian document with repercussions still affecting the world today, Vladimir Putin’s executive order creating the Ministry of Crimean Affairs and integrating the economic, financial, credit and legal systems of the Crimea with that of the Russian Federation. Putin essentially inextricably merges Crimea’s economy and courts with those of Russia, making any future return of Crimea to Ukraine nearly impossible.
The annexation occurred in early 2014 and was condemned worldwide. After Russian forces moved in, a national referendum took place, overseen by Moscow, and the vote went Russia’s way.
Several U.S. sanctions subsequently imposed on Russia, Putin, and others in his leadership remain in place today.
The Putin order up for auction called for the merging of Crimea institutions with those in Russia.
Historical items can fetch high prices on the international auction market. The Crimea order is expected to win special attention because it is rare and comes as President Trump is in the middle of an impeachment process focused on his handling of Ukraine affairs and that country’s battle with Russia.
Panagopulos added in his write-up of the order, “Neatly signed in blue ink. The document is presented in its original 9 x 12.25 burgundy leather portfolio with gold Russian eagle emblem applied to the front cover. Both in very fine condition.”
