Russian Empire 10 Ruble Assignat, 1810 (1786-1819 Period)
This assignat features a simple, uniface design typical of early Russian paper currency. Printed on light salmon-colored paper, the main textual information is arranged diagonally, specifying the denomination and the issuing authority. A horizontal block at the center prominently displays "10" and the word "ДЕСЯТЬ" (TEN) within a decorative frame. The design lacks complex engravings, portraits, or detailed imagery, prioritizing legibility and functional circulation during a period of high demand for paper money.
Description
This 10 Ruble assignat from the Russian Empire, issued in 1810, represents a crucial piece of monetary history during a period of significant economic and political upheaval, particularly the Napoleonic Wars. Issued by the State Assignat Bank, these notes were initially convertible into copper coin, as indicated by the text "ОБЪЯВИТЕЛЮ СЕЙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННОЙ АССИГНАЦІИ ПЛАТИТЬ АССИГНАЦІОННЫЙ БАНКЪ ДЕСЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ХОДЯЧЕЮ МОНЕТОЮ 1810 ГОДА" (The bearer of this state assignat is to be paid by the Assignat Bank TEN RUBLES in circulating coin of the year 1810). This specific issue belongs to the second generation of assignats (1786-1819), which saw an increase in denominations and circulation to fund state expenditures. The authenticity of these notes was reinforced by multiple handwritten signatures, clearly visible on this example. Collectors value these assignats for their historical context, connection to the development of paper money in Russia, and the insight they provide into the economic challenges faced by the Empire.