Russian Empire 25 Ruble Assignat, 1798 (1786-1819 Period)
The assignat features a minimalist, uniface design typical for Russian paper money of this period. The central text declares the note's value and purpose, with the year prominently stated. The denomination 'ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ' (Twenty-Five) is overprinted in a bold, stylized black block, contrasting with the main printed text. It includes spaces for handwritten signatures of bank officials and stamped serial numbers, repeated three times for security. The design emphasizes functionality and legibility over elaborate artistic elements.
Description
This is a 25 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1798. Assignats were the first paper money in Russia, introduced by Catherine the Great in 1769. This particular note belongs to the second main period of assignat issuance (1786-1819), characterized by a simpler design compared to later issues. The text states that the Assignation Bank will pay 'ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ходячею монетою' (Twenty-Five Rubles in circulating coin) to the bearer. The denomination is also highlighted by a bold, black overprint. Serial number №.779353 is clearly visible. Such notes are significant historical artifacts, representing the early development of a national paper currency system in Russia and the financial challenges faced by the empire, especially during the Napoleonic Wars when the value of assignats fluctuated significantly. This specific assignat, dated 1798, was issued during the reign of Emperor Paul I.