Russian Empire 10 Ruble Assignat, 1810 (1786-1819 Period)
The assignat features a minimalist, text-heavy design printed in a single reddish-pink ink. The central inscription, oriented diagonally, details the denomination and year of the series. There is an absence of complex imagery, portraits, or elaborate decorative elements typical of later banknotes, reflecting the utilitarian nature of early paper money. The serial number is applied as a bold overprint stamp, rather than being part of the original engraved design, along with a prominent 'CANCELLED' stamp. The paper itself is thick and textured, showing characteristics of early paper manufacturing.
Description
This is a 10 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire, dated 1810, falling within the 1786-1819 period of assignat circulation. The main inscription reads: 'ОБЪЯВИТЕЛЮ СЕЙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННОЙ АССИГНАЦІИ ПЛАТИТЬ АССИГНАЦІОННОЮ МОНЕТОЮ ДЕСЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ХОДЯЧЕЮ МОНЕТОЮ 1810 ГОДА.' (To the bearer of this state assignat, pay with assignation currency TEN RUBLES of circulating currency of the year 1810.) While 10 Ruble assignats of this period are typically known to be blue, this example exhibits a reddish-pink hue, which is a notable characteristic. This could be due to photographic color distortion, a rare printing error, or a specific variant not commonly cataloged. The assignat features multiple overstamps, including the serial number '№ 1164224' and a 'ПОГАШЕНО' (CANCELLED) stamp, indicating its redemption or removal from circulation. This piece offers a glimpse into the early monetary system of the Russian Empire, where assignats served as a form of paper currency, often subject to fluctuating values and inflationary pressures. Its simplicity in design highlights the focus on functionality over elaborate aesthetics during its era of issue.