Russian Empire 10 Ruble Assignat, 1829 (1819-1843 Period)
The assignat features a classic Russian Imperial design, centered around the double-headed eagle, a symbol of the Russian Empire. The eagle is depicted with a crown above, holding an olive branch (or similar) in one talon, signifying peace, and possibly a scepter or orb in the other (partially obscured). The denomination and issuing authority are printed in Cyrillic script. The design incorporates a decorative border around the main text block, and a watermark-like patterned background. The dominant color is blue, characteristic of 10-ruble assignats of this period.
Description
This is a 10 Ruble assignat issued by the Russian Empire, likely in 1829 as indicated by a handwritten annotation on the note, falling within the 1819-1843 period of assignats. These 'blue series' assignats are known for their standard design featuring the Imperial double-headed eagle at the top, and text in Cyrillic stating 'ГОСУДАРСТВЕННОЙ АССИГНАЦIИ БАНКЪ' (State Assignat Bank) and 'ДЕСЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ' (Ten Rubles) as 'ходячею монетою' (current coin). The serial number '№ 573000' is clearly visible in the lower corners. These notes played a crucial role in the Russian economy during the first half of the 19th century, serving as paper money convertible into silver, though their value often fluctuated. Despite its heavily circulated and damaged condition, it represents a significant historical artifact of Russian monetary history.