Russian Empire 10 Ruble Assignat, 1815 (1786-1819 Period)
The assignat features a simple, functional design characteristic of Russian paper currency from this era. It is printed on light pinkish-brown paper with black ink. The main text, 'Объявителю сей государственной ассигнаціи платитъ Государственный Банкъ десять рублей ходячею монетою 1815 года.' (To the bearer of this state assignat, the State Bank pays ten rubles in circulating coin of the year 1815.), is printed diagonally across the center. The denomination '10' is visible in the upper right. The serial number '№ 1475578' is printed multiple times: in the upper right, mid-left, and diagonally in the lower right. Below the main text are two handwritten signatures and a control stamp, partly covering one signature.
Description
This is a 10 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1815. Assignats were the first paper currency issued in Russia, circulating from 1769 until 1843. This particular note belongs to the 1786-1819 series, which saw various denominations and design adjustments. The year 1815 falls into a period following the Napoleonic Wars, a time of significant economic challenges and reforms in the Russian Empire. Assignats played a crucial role in funding state expenses, particularly during wartime, and often suffered from devaluation due to over-issuance. This note states that the State Bank would pay the bearer ten rubles in 'circulating coin of the year 1815,' highlighting its nature as a promissory note. The design is characteristic of the period, emphasizing simplicity and legibility over elaborate artistic features. It bears multiple printed serial numbers and two essential handwritten signatures, indicating authentication. The presence of a control stamp 'АВГУСТЪ' (August) suggests an additional layer of verification or a date of processing. This assignat offers a tangible link to Russia's monetary history during a pivotal imperial era.