Russian Empire 5 Ruble Assignat, 1804 (1786-1819 Period)
Russian Empire
1804
1786-1819
5
N° 354091
Style
This assignat features a simple, text-based design typical for early Russian paper money. It is printed on blue paper, a color specifically designated for 5 ruble notes during this period for easy identification and as a security measure. The design includes the denomination in numeric and text form, the issuing authority (Assignation Bank), and the reference year for the currency's value. The overall aesthetic is utilitarian, focusing on conveying essential information rather than elaborate artistic elements.
Description
This is a 5 Ruble Assignat issued by the Russian Empire, referencing the year 1804. Assignats were the first paper currency introduced in Russia, initially in 1769, and played a crucial role in financing the state, particularly during times of war. The text explicitly states: 'Объявителю сей Государственной Ассигнации платить Ассигнационный Банкъ пять рублей ходячею монетою 1804 года.' (To the bearer of this State Assignation, the Assignation Bank shall pay five rubles in circulating coin of 1804). The use of blue paper for the 5 ruble denomination was a distinctive feature introduced in the 1786 series to distinguish it from other denominations (e.g., white for 10 rubles, red for 25 rubles). The banknote bears the serial number N° 354091 and includes handwritten signatures of key officials, likely the Director and Cashier, which were mandatory for authentication. These assignats suffered from inflation over time but represent a significant period in Russian monetary history, especially the expansion of paper money circulation from the late 18th to early 19th centuries.