Russian Empire 5 Ruble Assignat, 1819 (1786-1819 Period)
The assignat features a classical design characteristic of the late 18th and early 19th-century Russian Empire. It is printed in blue ink on a light blue paper base. The central design element is the imperial double-headed eagle, crowned and holding a scepter and orb, with a small oval cartouche containing the numeral '5' at its chest, surrounded by a wreath. The main text is prominently displayed below the eagle. A decorative border with intricate patterns frames the note, featuring ornate corner embellishments. The year '1819' is stamped in a vertical oval on the left side, mirroring 'ГОДА' (year) on the right.
Description
This is a 5 Ruble assignat (paper money) issued by the Russian Empire in 1819. These assignats were a key component of the Russian monetary system during a period of significant financial reforms. The 1819 issue, often referred to as the 'blue' 5-ruble note due to its color, belongs to the second general issue of assignats (1786-1819 period), which replaced earlier, less secure notes. The text promises that the Assignat Bank will pay the bearer 'Five Rubles in circulating coin'. The banknote features the imperial double-headed eagle emblem, indicating its origin from the Russian Empire. It bears the serial number N°5413438 and includes the signatures of the Manager R. Khelsenits and Cashier Saak. Despite its age and heavy circulation, this assignat represents a significant piece of Russian financial history, reflecting the challenges and reforms of the post-Napoleonic era.