Russian Empire 25 Ruble Assignat, 1811 (1786-1819 Period)
The assignat features a classical, rather austere design typical for Russian Empire banknotes of the early 19th century. The obverse is dominated by the double-headed eagle, a symbol of imperial Russia, crowned and holding the scepter and orb. The eagle's chest bears a circular cartouche with the denomination '25'. Below the eagle, a central rectangular frame contains the main denominational text in Old Russian script. Decorative, ornate vertical borders with small crowns flank this central text block. The overall aesthetic is monochrome, emphasizing legibility and official declaration.
Description
This is a 25 Ruble State Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1811, falling within the 1786-1819 period of assignat circulation. The banknote's design features the iconic double-headed imperial eagle with the denomination '25' on its chest. The central inscription states that 'the Assignat Bank shall pay twenty-five rubles in circulating coin to the bearer of this State Assignat.' This type of assignat played a crucial role in the Russian financial system, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars, serving as fiat currency backed by the state's assets. Handwritten signatures of the Manager A. Levashov and Cashier Nikiforov provide authenticity. The serial number N° 1894277 is printed twice at the bottom. The year '1811' is faintly visible within a decorative oval in the lower left corner. These assignats represent a significant era in Russian monetary history, reflecting the economic policies and challenges of the early 19th century.