Russian Empire 25 Ruble Assignat, 1809 (1786-1819 Period)
This assignat features a simple, octagonal design, characteristic of Russian paper currency from this period. The design is predominantly typographic, with a central promise to pay the bearer. The denomination is clearly stated in numbers ('25') and spelled out in bold Cyrillic letters ('ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ') within a dark rectangular frame. Security features include multiple printings of the serial number and visible circular watermarks, common for assignats of this era. The overall aesthetic is functional rather than ornate.
Description
This is a 25 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1809, falling within the 1786-1819 period of Russian assignat circulation. The text explicitly states, 'Объявителю сей государственной ассигнации платить Ассигнационный Банкъ двадцать пять рублей ходячею монетою 1809 года.' (To the bearer of this state assignat, the Assignat Bank shall pay twenty-five rubles in circulating coin, year 1809). The denomination 'ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ' is prominently displayed in a black overprint box, a common feature for these issues to prevent alteration and clearly state the value. The serial number N° 3355699 is printed in black ink in the upper part and twice in the lower part of the note, serving as a security measure. The assignat bears handwritten signatures of the bank officials responsible for its issuance. This particular issue represents a critical period in Russian financial history, as assignats were the primary form of paper money, often subject to fluctuating values. Collectors value these notes for their historical significance and relatively simple, yet identifiable, design.