Russian Empire 5 Ruble Assignat, 1830 (1819-1843 Period)
The assignat features a typical design for Russian banknotes of the period, printed in a distinct blue ink on thin paper. The obverse is dominated by the Imperial double-headed eagle at the top, crowned and holding a scepter and orb. Below the eagle, the main text states the promise of payment: 'ОБЪЯВИТЕЛЮ СЕЙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННОЙ АССИГНАЦИИ НАШИ ПЛАТИТЬ АССИГНАЦИОННЫЙ БАНКЪ ПЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ХОДЯЧЕЮ МОНЕТОЮ.' (To the bearer of this State Assignat, our Assignat Bank shall pay Five Rubles in circulating coin). The denomination 'ПЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ' (Five Rubles) is prominently displayed in a decorative frame. The borders are adorned with geometric patterns and scrollwork. The year '1830' is embossed in an oval cartouche on the bottom left, while a similar cartouche on the bottom right is largely illegible due to wear but likely contains a series or control mark. Serial numbers are printed at the bottom corners. Signatures are handwritten below the denomination.
Description
This is a 5 Ruble assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1830, part of the series circulated between 1819 and 1843. These assignats were paper money, originally introduced as a temporary measure, but became a significant part of the monetary system due to wars and government expenditures. The promise to pay 'ходѧчею монетою' (circulating coin) signifies their status as legal tender, though their value often fluctuated against metal coinage. The distinct blue color was characteristic of 5 Ruble notes, making them easily identifiable within the series. Collectors value these notes for their historical significance, representing a crucial period in Russian economic history characterized by monetary reforms and attempts to stabilize the paper currency. The presence of a clear year and serial number, along with a legible primary signature, adds to its collectibility despite the wear. This particular note carries the serial number N° 83086 and is signed by 'Управляющий' (Manager) Pr. Kh. Vasenyev (Пр. Х. Васеньев).