Russian Empire 25 Ruble Assignat, 1815 (1786-1819 Period)
The assignat features a classic early 19th-century Russian Imperial design. The top displays a prominent double-headed eagle, the emblem of the Russian Empire, crowned and holding a scepter and orb. Below the eagle, the denomination '25' is enclosed in an oval cartouche. The central field is dominated by a large text block in Old Russian orthography, outlining the promise to pay 'ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ХОДЯЧЕЮ МОНЕТОЮ' (Twenty-five Rubles in current coin). The borders on the left and right are adorned with intricate, curvilinear patterns, while the bottom border features stylized floral and geometric motifs, including an oval cartouche for the year '1815' on the left and 'ГОДЪ' (Year) on the right. The overall design emphasizes state authority and the formal nature of the currency.
Description
This is a significant historical banknote, a 25 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1815. Assignats were the first paper money in Russia, introduced in 1769. This particular issue belongs to the series circulated between 1786 and 1819. The assignat prominently features the Imperial double-headed eagle and the denomination '25' both numerically and in text ('ДВАДЦАТЬ ПЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ'). It includes the serial number N° 5475950 and the year of issue, 1815, clearly marked. The reverse (not shown, but typically blank or with a simple pattern for this period) would complement the obverse's design. Signatures of the Manager K. Kolzakov (Управляющiй К. Колзаковъ) and Director Sergin (Директоръ Сергинъ) are visible, essential details for collectors. These banknotes played a crucial role in the Russian economy, especially during the Napoleonic Wars, and are highly sought after for their historical context. Despite its poor condition, the legibility of key details makes it a valuable piece for numismatists interested in early Russian paper currency.