Russian Empire 25 Ruble Assignat, 1807 (1786-1819 Period)
This assignat features a simple, functional design characteristic of early Russian paper money. The layout is dominated by Cyrillic text in a traditional script, indicating the denomination and the state's guarantee. The paper is thick, off-white to sepia-toned, reflecting the basic printing technology of the era. The banknote has an octagonal shape, with its corners cut, a common practice for Russian assignats to distinguish them from rectangular treasury bills and to prevent easy counterfeiting or wear on sharp edges. The serial number is prominently displayed multiple times. Handwritten signatures add to its authenticity.
Description
This is a 25 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1807, falling within the period of assignat circulation from 1786-1819, specifically during the reign of Emperor Alexander I. Assignats were a form of paper money introduced in Russia as early as 1769 and were in continuous use with various issues and reforms. This particular issue belongs to the series of assignats from 1802-1818, distinguished by the wording 'Объявляемъ симъ Государственное Казначейство ПЛАТИТЬ ДВАТЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ходящею монетою' (We hereby declare the State Treasury will PAY TWENTY-FIVE RUBLES in circulating coin). These notes played a crucial role in financing state expenditures, especially during the Napoleonic Wars. The serial number 'N° 1484823' is visible at the top and repeated at the bottom, a security measure for the time. Such assignats are important historical artifacts, reflecting the economic and monetary policies of the Russian Empire in the early 19th century.