Hi Aaron,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
This is an Orthodox 8-pointed cross that shows Christ with a halo rather than a crown of thorns and includes both a top bar and a slanted bottom bar that symbolizes the "balance beam of righteousness" with the walls of Jerusalem behind it. The inscriptions on both the front and back are not Russian but Slavic, possibly Bulgarian.
The translations on the top front of the crucifix read "Jesus of nazareth, King of the Jews" and "King of Glory" as well as ""Not made by hands." The inscription on the back reads: "As You were voluntarily raised upon the cross for our sake, / Grant mercy to those who are called by Your Name, O Christ God; / Gladden all Orthodox Christians by Your power, / Granting them victories over their adversaries, /By bestowing on them the Invincible trophy, Your weapon of Peace." It is a blessing usually given by Orthodox priests.

The market for religious artifacts has seen great fluctuations lately but ones of this size and age - late 19th/early 20th Century - typically sell for $600-900 when sold at auction these days.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An antique Slavic Orthodox cast silvered brass and enamel crucifix icon
late 19th or early 20th Century
The eight-pointed Orthodox cross with the crucified figure of Christ with top bar and slanted foot bar, inscribed on the back, mounted in a frame. With blue and green enamel highlights.
20 inches tall
CONDITION: This icon
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 600-900*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia