Russian Empire 5 Ruble Assignat, 1814 (1812-1814 Issue)
This assignat features a simple, text-heavy design characteristic of early Russian paper money. Printed on dark blue/purple paper, it lacks elaborate graphical elements, focusing instead on the essential text declaring its value and issuer. The pre-reform orthography is evident throughout the text. Signatures are handwritten in black ink, and the serial number is printed. The design emphasizes the formal declaration of value rather than decorative aesthetics, common for assignats of this period.
Description
This is a 5 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1814, part of the 1812-1814 series. These assignats were crucial to the Russian economy, especially during and after the Napoleonic Wars, serving as state-backed paper currency. The note explicitly states its value in 'current coin of 1814', indicating its redemption promise. The reverse side (shown) contains the main declaration of value and official signatures. It bears the serial number N°4030834. The simplicity of its design, combined with handwritten elements, highlights the utilitarian nature of these early banknotes. Collectors value such pieces for their historical significance, representing a key period in Russian financial history and the evolution of its currency system.