MARK OF IVAN AREFIEV, VOLOGDA, NO DATE MARK, ASSAY MASTER'S MARK CYRILLIC 'I.S', CIRCA 1782-1787

The Treaty of Küçük Kaynarca, signed in July 1774, brought an end to the Russo-Turkish War (1768-1774) and marked a major military triumph for the Russian Empire. While it did not gain vast territories from the Ottoman Empire, Russia assumed control of Southern Ukraine, Northern Caucasus, and Crimea. The Crimean Khanate, although it formally gained its independence, became dependent on Russia. The two key seaports of Azov and Kinburn came under Russian control, and thus Russia gained its first foothold on the Black Sea coast, allowing its navy and merchant fleet direct access to the Black Sea. Furthermore, the treaty granted the Russian Empire official status as protector of Orthodox Christians living in the Ottoman Empire, opening the door to future Russian expansion.