Russian Empire 10 Ruble Assignat, 1804 (1786-1819 Period)
The assignat features a classic design for Russian paper money of the early 19th century. The central motif is the crowned double-headed eagle of the Russian Empire, holding a scepter and orb, with a shield on its chest displaying the denomination '10'. The main inscription reads 'Объявителю сея Государственной Ассигнации наш Государственный Банк имеет платить десять Рублей ходячею монетою.' (To the bearer of this State Assignat, our State Bank shall pay ten Rubles in circulating coin). The banknote is framed by an ornate rectangular border with geometric patterns and decorative corner elements. The year '1804' is indicated in stylized cartouches in both lower corners. The text is printed in Cyrillic, typical for the period.
Description
This is a 10 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1804, falling within the 1786-1819 period of assignat circulation. These early paper notes played a crucial role in the Russian economy, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars, serving as a form of fiat currency. The design, with the imperial double-headed eagle and the explicit promise of payment by the State Bank, reflects the authority and monetary policy of the era. The presence of the year '1804' in the corner cartouches is a key identifying feature for this specific series. The serial number 'N° 42118' provides a unique identifier. This assignat represents an important piece of Russian financial history, illustrating the transition and development of its monetary system.