Russian Empire 25 Ruble Assignat, 1812 (1786-1819 Period)

This is a 25 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1812. Assignats were the first paper currency in Russia, introduced by Catherine the Great, and played a critical role in the country's financial system, particularly during times of war. This specific note was issued during the pivotal year of the Patriotic War of 1812 against Napoleon, a period marked by significant government expenditure and subsequent inflation, which led to a depreciation of assignats. The central text states: "Объявителю сей 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 circulating coin). The denomination "ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ" (Twenty-five Rubles) and the year "1812 ГОДА" are clearly visible. The serial number "N° 8080013" is printed in multiple locations on the note, a security feature against counterfeiting prevalent at the time. Two handwritten signatures, likely those of the Director (Управляющий) and Cashier (Кассиръ) of the Assignation Bank, authenticate the note. This assignat belongs to the 1786-1819 emission period, representing a tangible piece of Russian monetary history from a tumultuous era.