Russian Empire 25 Ruble Assignat, 1813 (1786-1819 Period)
This assignat features a minimalistic and functional design, typical of early Russian paper money. The text is printed in black ink on light-colored, plain paper. The main body of the note is dominated by Cyrillic text detailing its value and issuer, set in a clear, sans-serif font, though some elements like the serial number use a serif font. The denomination '25' is visibly printed at the top center, with the full value 'ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ' (TWENTY-FIVE) stamped prominently below the main text. Hand-written signatures add a personal, security element characteristic of the era. The overall aesthetic emphasizes clarity and practicality over elaborate artistic embellishment.
Description
This is a 25 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1813, belonging to the 1786-1819 series of assignats. These notes were governmental paper money issued by the State Assignation Bank (Государственный Ассигнационный Банкъ) and served as a crucial part of the Russian financial system, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars. The central inscription reads: 'Объявителю сеи Государственной Ассигнации платить Ассигнаціонный Банкъ двадцать пять рублей ходячею монетою' (To the bearer of this State Assignat, the Assignation Bank shall pay twenty-five rubles in current coin), guaranteeing its value. The denomination '25' is printed at the top, and 'ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ' (TWENTY-FIVE) is overstamped in a prominent block. The serial number 'Nº 6405933' is clearly visible in the upper and lower left corners. The note bears a specific year of issue, '1813 ГОДА', identifying it as a wartime issue. This assignat type is significant for collectors due to its historical context, particularly its role in the finances of Imperial Russia during a tumultuous period. The distinct hand-written signatures were vital for authentication.