Russian Empire 10 Ruble Assignat, 1812 (1786-1819 Period)
This assignat features a simple, text-based design printed on a distinctive pinkish-salmon paper. The main text, including the denomination and year of issue, is oriented diagonally across the center of the note. The serial number is prominently displayed in the upper and lower corners, also diagonally. The design is characteristic of early Russian assignats, lacking elaborate engravings or complex pictorial elements, focusing instead on clear textual information and security features like handwritten signatures.
Description
This is a 10 Ruble Assignat issued by the State Assignat Bank of the Russian Empire in 1812. The text reads: 'ОБЪЯВИТЕЛЮ СЕЙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННОЙ АССИГНАЦІИ ПЛАТИТЬ АССИГНАЦІОННЫЙ БАНКЪ ДЕСЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ХОДЯЧЕЮ МОНЕТОЮ 1812 ГОДА.' (To the bearer of this State Assignat, the Assignat Bank shall pay TEN Rubles in current coin in the year 1812). Issued during the tumultuous period of the Napoleonic Wars, particularly the year of Napoleon's invasion of Russia, these assignats were a critical instrument for the Russian state to finance its war efforts and general expenditures. Their relatively simple design and reliance on handwritten signatures for authentication reflect the urgent need for mass production of paper currency at the time. This specific banknote bears the serial number N°4308794 and prominent handwritten signatures, which were key security features before advanced printing technologies became widespread. It represents a significant piece of Russian financial and military history from a pivotal moment in European history.