Russian Empire 25 Ruble Assignat, 1809 (1786-1819 Period)
The assignat features a simple, monochrome design printed in black ink on light paper. The main text, written in Cyrillic, promises payment to the bearer. Two large oval watermarks are present in the upper central part, indicating security features. The denomination 'ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ' (Twenty-five) is prominently displayed in a shaded, decorative rectangle, with the numerical '25' above it. The year of issue, '1809 ГОДА', is clearly stated. Serial numbers appear at the top and bottom of the note.
Description
This is a 25 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1809, falling within the 1786-1819 period of assignat circulation. Assignats were the first paper money introduced in Russia, initially in 1769 under Catherine the Great. This specific issue represents a critical period in Russian monetary history when assignats were the primary form of currency. The note features the serial number № 5675395 and bears the signatures of Director Mikhail Shepelev and Cashier Nikolai Chirikov, both well-known officials responsible for the issuance of assignats during this era. The design is characteristic of assignats from this period: simple, functional, and focused on the legal promise to pay the bearer with 'ходячею монетою' (circulating coin). The visible watermarks, though faint, were an early security measure against counterfeiting. This piece offers a tangible link to Russia's early paper currency system and the financial landscape of the early 19th century, making it a valuable item for collectors of Russian numismatics and historical documents.