Russian Empire 25 Ruble Assignat, 1803 (1786-1819 Period)
The assignat features a classical design typical of early Russian paper money. The top of the note is dominated by the double-headed eagle, the emblem of the Russian Empire, crowned and holding a scepter and orb. On its breast, a shield prominently displays the denomination '25'. The central part of the note contains the main text, printed in Cyrillic, within an ornate rectangular frame adorned with scrollwork and floral motifs. The text indicates that the Assignation Bank will pay the bearer twenty-five rubles in circulating coin. Below the text block are the serial numbers and signatures. The bottom edge includes decorative elements and two oval control marks, spelling out 'ДВА' (DVA) on the left and 'ДЦАТЬ' (DTSAT') on the right, forming 'ДВАДЦАТЬ' (TWENTY), further confirming the denomination.
Description
This is a 25 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1803. Assignats were the first paper money introduced in Russia, primarily to fund military expenses and reduce the need for bulky copper coinage. This specific issue falls within the second major period of assignat circulation (1786-1819), following reforms aimed at standardizing and expanding the issuance of paper currency. The presence of the double-headed eagle with the denomination '25' on its breast, along with the specific signatures of Manager K. Lyalikov and Cashier S. Yevets, firmly identifies it as belonging to the 1803 series. These notes played a crucial role in the Russian economy during the Napoleonic Wars. Collectors value these assignats for their historical significance as early forms of Russian paper currency and their intricate, albeit relatively simple, design reflecting the printing capabilities of the era.