The complex, [{Ru(terpy)(bpy)}2(mu-dicyd)][PF6](2), where terpy = 2,2’,2"-terpyridine, bpy = 2,2’-bipyridine, and dicyd(2-) = 1,4-dicyanamidobenzene dianion, has been synthesized and characterized by cyclic voltammetry and spectroelectrochemical methods. A quantitative absorption spectrum of the radical anion dicyd(.-) has also been determined. The mixed valence ion, [{Ru(terpy)(bpy)](2)(mu-dicyd)](3+) is strongly coupled with K-c = 2.7 x 10(7) and has an intervalence band at lambda = 1090 nm (epsilon(max) 3000 M(-1) cm(-1), <(nu)over bar>(1/2) = 1800 cm(-1)). The mixed-valence properties of this complex were compared to its ammine analogue [{(NH3)(5)Ru}(2)(mu-dicyd)](3+) and rationalized by the perturbation of spectator ligands on the interaction of ruthenium ions with the dicyd(2-) superexchange pathway. The dependence of intervalence oscillator strength on the nature of the mixed-valence complex was also discussed.