Russian Empire 5 Ruble Assignat, 1802 (1786-1819 Period)

This is a 5 Ruble assignat from the Russian Empire, issued in 1802. Assignats were early forms of paper money used in Russia from the late 18th century until the mid-19th century, designed to facilitate trade and finance state expenditures, particularly during periods of war or economic strain. This particular issue, dated '1802 года' in the text, refers to the year its value was linked to a specific monetary standard or re-evaluation. The design is characteristic of assignats from the 1786-1819 period, featuring a simple, utilitarian layout printed on thick, typically greyish-blue paper. The central text promises the bearer that the Assignation Bank will pay 'ПЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ходячею монетою 1802 года' (FIVE RUBLES in current coin of 1802). Security features included serial numbers and handwritten signatures. The note displays the serial number Ж 192223, which appears three times on the banknote. Visible signatures include that of the Cashier, clearly identified as Андрей Мещеряков (Andrei Meshcheryakov), a common figure on assignats of this era. The Director's signature appears to be present but is largely illegible. This assignat represents a significant piece of Russian monetary history, illustrating the early development of paper currency and the financial challenges faced by the empire. Despite its heavily circulated and damaged condition, it remains a valuable historical artifact for collectors interested in the monetary system of the Russian Empire.