Russian Empire 100 Ruble Assignat, 1819 (1819-1843 Period)
The assignat features a classical, ornate design typical of early 19th-century Russian banknotes. The central element is a large oval frame enclosing the primary text and denomination. The frame is adorned with a detailed laurel wreath and serpentine ribbons. In the four corners outside the oval, the imperial double-headed eagles of Russia are prominently displayed, holding sceptre and orb, symbolizing state authority. Above the central text, a smaller laurel wreath encloses the denomination '100'. The script is Old Russian Cyrillic, executed in an elegant, calligraphic style. The overall design emphasizes security through intricate engraving rather than modern printing techniques, reflecting the era's technological capabilities.
Description
This is a 100 Ruble assignat issued by the Russian Empire, dated 1819. These assignats, part of the 1819-1843 series, were state paper money issued by the Assignation Bank. The central inscription reads: 'Объявителю сея Государственной Ассигнаціи платить Ассигнаціонный Банкъ СТО РУБЛЕЙ ходячею монетою.' (To the bearer of this State Assignat, the Assignation Bank will pay ONE HUNDRED RUBLES in circulating coin.) This issue aimed to stabilize the financial system after the Napoleonic Wars. The visible year '1819' on the left side of the oval frame indicates the design's first approval, though these notes were printed and circulated for many years thereafter. The banknote features the imperial double-headed eagle emblem in all four corners, a crown above the '100' denomination, and intricate borders, common for the period. Signatures of the Manager and Cashier are present at the bottom. This particular note carries serial number № 467836. These historical notes are significant for understanding Russia's early paper currency system.