Russian Empire 10 Ruble Assignat, 1811 (1786-1819 Series)
The assignat features a classical Imperial Russian design with a central double-headed eagle, crowned and holding a scepter and orb. A shield on the eagle's chest prominently displays the denomination '10'. The main text is in pre-reform Russian orthography, framed by an ornate border with floral and scrollwork motifs in the corners. The year '1811' is enclosed in an oval cartouche on the left, with 'ГОДА' (Year) in a corresponding cartouche on the right. The overall style is monochromatic, printed in dark ink on light paper, characteristic of assignats from this period.
Description
This is a 10 Ruble assignat issued by the Russian Empire in 1811, belonging to the 1786-1819 series. These assignats were a form of paper money introduced to cover government expenses and circulated widely, especially during the Napoleonic Wars. The central inscription reads: 'ОБЪЯВИТЕЛЮ СЕЙ ГОСУДАРСТВЕННОЙ АССИГНАЦИИ НАДЛЕЖИТЬ АССИГНАЦІОННЫЙ БАНКЪ ДЕСЯТЬ РУБЛЕЙ ХОДЯЧЕЮ МОНЕТОЮ.' (To the bearer of this State Assignat, the Assignation Bank shall pay TEN RUBLES in circulating coin.) This note is significant for collectors due to its age and historical context, representing a period of significant economic and political change in Russia. The specific year 1811 makes it a tangible artifact from the era just prior to the Patriotic War of 1812. The assignat features handwritten signatures of the manager and cashier, adding to its authenticity and collector's appeal. Despite visible wear, the key details are clear.