Russian Empire 25 Ruble Assignat, 1811 (1786-1819 Period)
This assignat features a relatively simple, utilitarian design typical of Russian paper currency from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The text is printed in Cyrillic, stating the denomination and the obligation of the State Assignat Bank. The design emphasizes functionality and security features like serial numbers and handwritten signatures, rather than elaborate artistic elements. The paper is thick, fibrous, and has a characteristic beige/brownish hue common for the period. The denomination 'ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ' (Twenty Five) is highlighted in a distinct, framed box.
Description
This is a 25 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1811, falling within the 1786-1819 period of assignat issuance. Assignats were the first form of paper money in Russia, introduced by Catherine the Great. The banknote states in Russian: 'ОБЪЯВИТЕЛЮ СЕЙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННОЙ АССИГНАЦИИ ПЛАТИТЬ АССИГНАЦИОННЫЙ БАНКЪ ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ХОДЯЧЕЮ МОНЕТОЮ 1811 ГОДА.' (To the bearer of this State Assignat, the Assignat Bank shall pay twenty-five rubles in circulating coin, year 1811.) The denomination 'ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ' (Twenty-Five) is prominently displayed in a shaded frame. Multiple instances of the serial number N° 4678118 are printed on the note, serving as a security feature. The assignat features two prominent handwritten signatures, typical for authentication during this era. This banknote represents a significant piece of Russian monetary history, reflecting the economic practices and paper currency development during the Napoleonic Wars.