Russian Empire 10 Ruble Assignat, 1805 (1786-1819 Period)
The assignat features a minimalist design characteristic of early Russian paper money. It is printed on light brown/beige paper with black ink. The main text is oriented diagonally, proclaiming the note's value and issuer. A prominent black ink stamp 'ДЕСЯТЬ' (TEN) reinforces the denomination. Serial numbers are printed in three corners. Several handwritten signatures in black ink are visible, adding to the authenticity and historical charm.
Description
This is a 10 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1805, falling within the 1786-1819 period of assignat circulation. The note's central inscription, diagonally printed, declares the obligation of the State Assignat Bank to pay 'ДЕСЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ХОДЯЧЕЮ МОНЕТОЮ' (Ten Rubles in current coin) to the bearer, explicitly dated '1805 ГОДА.' The denomination is further emphasized by a large, bold black ink stamp 'ДЕСЯТЬ' (TEN) partially overlapping the main text. The serial number '№ 1866286' is prominently displayed in the upper left, upper right, and lower right corners, aiding in identification and verification. Below the main text, several handwritten signatures, likely from bank officials (such as a director, cashier, or manager), confirm its authenticity, a common practice for assignats of this era. This assignat represents a crucial phase in Russian monetary history, illustrating the transition to paper currency and its role in the empire's financial system.